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One of the areas most popular events, the Great Reno Balloon Race, is set for this weekend. While technically not a race, the event has filled the skies of Reno with 100+ balloons since 1982. It’s the world’s largest free balloon event. If you have yet to experience the Balloon Race, it is well worth the early wakeup.

The Great Reno Balloon Race takes place at Rancho San Rafael Park in north Reno. With it being such a popular event, the park gets quite congested and parking can be an issue. If you want to avoid the crowds and get a run or ride in to catch some epic balloon views, here are three recommendations:

The N

A run or bike to the N will give you a birds-eye view of Rancho San Rafael Park and all the balloon action. It is 1.9 miles from the Reno Sports Complex parking lot to the N on the side of the hill. If you get there early enough, you should be able to snag a parking spot in the lot. Otherwise, we recommend parking at UNR and crossing McCarran to access the trailhead.

If you don’t want to make the climb to the N, any other trails in the East Keystone trail section will suffice especially if the balloons are traveling north.

The Ditch Trail

Checking out the balloons from the Steamboat Ditch Trail puts you further from the action but it still provides some great views. The wind direction each morning can impact the best spots to view the balloons, but here are a few sections worth checking out:

Rancho San Rafael Park

While the main part of Rancho San Rafael will be filled with people, the trails on the north and east side of the park should be less congested and you can ride or run directly underneath the balloons.

Here’s the schedule of events for the Great Reno Balloon Race (Friday - Sunday):

3:30 AM - Gates open to Rancho San Rafael Park

5:00 AM - Super Glow Show

5:30 AM - Dawn Patrol

7:00 AM - Mass Ascension

Whether you catch the balloons while out for a ride or run or you head to the park, we hope you enjoy this unique Northern Nevada tradition!

EFAST, founded in 2013, is a proud sponsor of ActiveRenoTahoe. EFAST helps athletes of all ability levels with individualized training plans. Do you have an upcoming race? Contact EFAST to help you achieve your goals.

September Races

October Races

November Races

December Races

There are a variety of group runs offered each week in RenoTahoe. Here are this week’s group runs. Please be sure to double check each group’s website/social media for locations, time, and/or last minute changes.

Thursday, September 4

Friday, September 5

Saturday, September 6

Sunday, September 7

Monday, September 8

Tuesday, September 9

Wednesday, September 10

Are we missing a group run? Let us know!

Until next time, stay active RenoTahoe!