Michael D. Thompson Trailhead named after Reno High School graduate and outdoor enthusiast

Trailhead kiosk depiction of Michael D. Thompson

The Michael D. Thompson Trailhead west of Reno in northern Nevada is a gateway to the scenic landscapes of the Truckee River Valley and the Mount Rose Wilderness. This trailhead is a popular meeting place and starting point for short, medium and long hikes to destinations such as the Steamboat Trail Arrow, the two Holes in the Wall and via the Hunter Creek Trail to  Hunter Creek Falls and beyond .

The trailhead is named in honor of  Reno-born Michael David Thompson, who died young and is still remembered by some locals. The trailhead kiosk provides a brief biography:

The land for this trailhead has been given to the citizens of Washoe County in memory of Michael David Thompson. Michael was born in Reno on June 10, 1970, graduating from Reno High School in 1988. He was president of his senior class, a member of the ski team, and an outstanding student. During his twenty years, Michael lived life to the fullest, seeking new challenges and giving back to the community.

Michael loved to do what many Reno residents love to do when outdoors:

Michael loved outdoor adventure whether it was on the ground skiing, hiking, camping, mountain biking, ATV riding, four-wheeling, or flying an airplane 12,000 feet over the Sierra.

The popularity of  the Thompson Trailhead is still growing. Now, it indeed is “a busy place with hikers and bikers ready for the wilderness,” as forecasted in my Hunter Creek Trailhead under construction post in 2009.

Michael D. Thompson Trailhead