Washoe County

Washoe County is an administrative territory in western Nevada that includes sections of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada range. The territory extends from the California border to the wide desert landscape east of Reno.

The territory formed in 1861 as one of the first nine administrative districts of Nevada Territory. Ten years later, officials moved the administrative center from Washoe City to the growing town of Reno.

The administrative territory takes its name from the Washoe people, who have lived here for centuries and still maintain their language today. Their connection to Lake Tahoe continues to shape the cultural identity of this region.

The road between Reno and the lake passes through several elevation zones and may have snow in winter. In summer, the same route gives access to mountain hiking trails.

Virginia Peak rises visibly above the northern Nevada desert and serves travelers as a natural landmark. The summit marks one of the highest points between the Sierra Nevada and the open plains.

Location: Nevada

Inception: 1861

Capital city: Reno

Shares border with: Lake County, Harney County, Humboldt County, Pershing County, Churchill County, Lyon County, Storey County, Carson City, Placer County, Nevada County, Sierra County, Lassen County, Modoc County

Website: https://washoecounty.gov

GPS coordinates: 40.63000,-119.68000

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:05