When the skies light up in a gradient of colors during a Reno Sunset, people get out their phones and cameras to document it. A quick scroll through social media will demonstrate what locals already know: Reno sunsets are the best sunsets.

So, why is Reno graced with such gorgeous skies? It’s in part thanks to Rayleigh scattering, which is the scientific explanation of why the sky is blue during the day and why it changes colors as the earth rotates. The sky looks blue during the day because blue light is scattered much more than red light. However, during sunrise and sunset, the sun’s light must pass through more atmosphere to reach an observer on the ground. This extra distance scatters more blue light, but less of red light. That’s why the sky near the sun has more red hues than blue ones.

Clouds can enhance this phenomenon and add vibrancy if they are located high enough in the atmosphere and haze can make a bright red look pink. Mid and high-level clouds can make the picture even prettier, and clean air scatters light better than dirty air. So, a day with clear skies and high clouds can mean a gorgeous Reno sunset is coming.

But, enough science, and on to the photos! Here are 15 of our favorite Reno sunset photos posted to Instagram.

Check Out These Photos Of Reno Sunsets

 

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Do you have a favorite photo of a Reno Sunset? Share it with us on Instagram!