A multi-day cattle drive stretching across Nevada sagebrush is set to roll back into Reno on Thursday, bringing riders, cattle, and a rolling parade through northeast Reno before finishing at the rodeo grounds.
The Reno Rodeo Cattle Drive returns to Reno on Thursday, June 18, after five days and more than 60 miles on horseback, helping kick off the 107th annual “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West.”
Riders guide short-horned cattle across open sagebrush-covered plateaus while food and supplies are carried in 1800s-style mule- or horse-drawn wagons. Along the way, they face long dusty days, blazing sun, wind and occasional summer storms before gathering each night around camp.
The final stretch turns into a public parade as riders and cattle move through northeast Reno. The community is encouraged to line the route, cheer on the riders and welcome them back as they enter the Reno Rodeo arena.
The cattle drive is scheduled to stage at Clear Acre Lane at about 11 a.m. on Thursday, entering the rodeo grounds around noon. Times are approximate.
The route runs through northeast Reno, starting on Clear Acre Lane, then McCarran Blvd., Sutro St., Oddie Blvd. and Wells Ave. before entering the Nevada State Fairgrounds at 1350 N. Wells Ave. The grand entrance concludes in the outdoor arena.
The Reno Rodeo Association organizes the annual event, which includes experienced trail bosses, rodeo volunteers, and guests from around the world who take part in the tradition.
Organizers say a rolling road closure will be in place during the parade. Law enforcement will temporarily stop traffic at intersections along the route to allow the herd and riders to pass, with roads reopening after the group moves through each section.
