Pros & cons
PROS
- Accessible fishing and viewing deck directly over Snake Creek
- Reliable spot to look for Bonneville Cutthroat Trout in creek riffles
CONS
- Gravel road approach can be rough for low-clearance modified vehicles
- Extremely short—more a scenic stop than a true hike
Snake Creek Trailhead at the end of Snake Creek Road; parking is limited.
Gravel road access; low-clearance modified vehicles may struggle. Summer thunderstorms are common. In winter, deep snow can cover the path and compromise ADA accessibility.
Overview
This is a true quick stop: an ADA-accessible spur to a wooden fishing/overlook platform on Snake Creek. It’s roughly 0.1 mile one way (return the same way), flat, and designed for accessibility. Think “pause-and-enjoy-the-creek” rather than a hike—perfect if you want a quiet, easy taste of the Snake Creek corridor without committing to mileage.
What you’ll see
The path leads through the cool, shaded Snake Creek corridor to a wooden platform right over the water. Scan the small drops and pools for Bonneville Cutthroat Trout—this endemic fish was once thought locally extinct here, and this is a reliable place to look. Expect the sound of rushing water, a green meadow feel, and a mountain backdrop from the Snake Creek area. Wayside exhibits at the overlook add a little context while you linger.
Access and tips
Drive Snake Creek Road to its end; parking is at the Snake Creek Trailhead and is limited. The approach is on gravel, and access may be difficult for modified vehicles with low clearance. Pets aren’t allowed on park trails (this one included). No permits are required for this short, accessible walk.
Best time to go
Year-round in theory, but summer afternoons often bring thunderstorms—go early or later in the day for calmer weather and softer light on the creek. In winter, trails in this area can be buried under several feet of snow; the trail may remain open, but ADA accessibility can be compromised. Check conditions with rangers if you’re aiming for an accessible experience.
If you want more
If this whets your appetite, you’re in the right place. From the same trailhead you can branch onto longer options like the Shoshone Trail, Dead Lake Trail, or Johnson Lake Trail for aspen groves, bigger views, and mountain lakes. There’s also a short Snake Creek overlook option starting here if you want just a bit more walking without going deep.
Elevation
0.1 mi · 3 minWildlife on this trail
Near Shoshone ADA Trail
All places →All trails →
Wheeler PeakNevada’s high‑alpine summit with big views and bigger windsScenic Viewpoint
Bristlecone GroveAncient bristlecones on a short, high-elevation interpretive loopTrailhead · Restroom
Astronomy AmphitheaterRed-lit venue for free ranger-led stargazing and telescope viewsParking · Restroom
Gothic PalaceShort, dramatic cave room with stalactites and ranger storiesParking · Restroom
Wheeler Peak Summit TrailNevada’s airy high-point chase with big views and bigger windsChallenging · 8.6 mi · 7 hr
Alpine Lakes LoopShort alpine loop to Stella and Teresa Lakes beneath Wheeler PeakEasy · 2.7 mi · 1.5 hr
Bristlecone TrailShort alpine hike to a grove of ancient, twisted bristlecone pinesModerate · 2.8 mi · 2.3 hr
Glacier TrailShort, high-alpine trek to Wheeler Peak’s cirque and rock glacierModerate · 3.7 mi · 2.5 hr
