Best Hiking Near Las Vegas
In a gambling mecca known for its neon spires, world-class cuisine and entertainment galore, it’s easy to overlook the fact that Las Vegas has some incredible hiking near The Strip.
The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a short drive from the city and offers an array of amazing desert landscapes, including dramatic red rock formations. Try the Ice Box Canyon Trail or Calico Tanks.
This desert oasis is home to some of the best hiking found in the country. The surrounding landscape offers sweeping mountains, rocky canyons and crystal clear waterways that are perfect for exploring on your next vacation. Red Rock Conservation Area’s Ice Box Canyon is a great moderate to difficult hike right outside of the city. With tons of boulder hopping and scrambling, this trail is challenging and rewarding.
Hike through red sandstone formations on the Calico Tanks Trail. This 2.2-mile out-and-back hike runs up a canyon and over sandstone cliffs, offering spectacular views of the mountains and Las Vegas.
This trail is a popular hike in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, so be prepared to share the path with other people. The payoff is worth the trek, though, as you’ll get to see beautiful waterfalls and hidden pathways.
Also at Red Rocks, First Creek Canyon is a pleasant 2.2-mile round-trip hike across a desert valley beneath towering red-and-white sandstone cliffs. Water flows after wet winters and late spring floods, forming a pool and an 18-foot waterfall.
This is a popular trail that offers views of gorgeous red rocks, rock staircases and natural beauty. It’s also a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas.
Forget the slot machines and people watching, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventure just a short drive from downtown Las Vegas. From desert landscapes to forested high-alpine slopes, a handful of unique hiking trails will help you escape the glitz and bustle of Las Vegas and enjoy nature in a quieter setting.
Mary Jane Falls is a popular hike in the area and one that’s well worth checking out. This 1.6-mile trail climbs 1,100 feet to reach a 50-foot waterfall and a cave that adds a bit of interest to the hike.
You’ll find thousands of petroglyphs that were left by ancient people in the area when you hike the Petroglyph Trail, south of Henderson. It’s been called the Sistine Chapel of rock art and there’s no better way to see it than by hiking this desert trail.
The main loop trail starts at the Visitor Center and is a moderately strenuous hike. You’ll have to scramble over a few dry falls and climb some soft ground, but the views are worth it.
There are few hikes that are more magical than Fire Wave, a fiery red sandstone bluff that’s located in Valley of Fire State Park. Located just 45 miles northeast of Vegas on Interstate 15, the trail is one of the most popular in the park, so get there early!
The hike starts from a parking area near the end of Mouse’s Tank Road. The trail is easy, and there are clear markers so you won’t get lost.
Gold Strike Canyon Hot Springs
Located 35 miles southeast of Las Vegas past Henderson, Gold Strike Canyon Hot Springs is an amazing hike that runs down a narrow rocky canyon to a series of hot springs. Depending on the season, these pools can vary in temperature and depth. The hike is a little tricky in some parts, but it’s still fun and rewarding. It’s best to go early in the morning or on a weekday.
Head to Mt. Charleston and the nearby park where you’ll find one of the best hikes around. Bristlecone Trail will take you through a grove of ancient bristlecone pines. These trees are among the oldest plants in the world and can live for thousands of years. This hike is a great way to escape the heat of the desert and enjoy nature at its most beautiful.
Hikers will find plenty to love about this trail, from the unique slot canyon to the sweeping desert vistas. It’s one of the best hiking trails near Las Vegas, and it’s sure to be a highlight of your visit to Valley of Fire State Park!
Starting out on sand, White Domes Trail descends over a series of stone stairs into a haven surrounded by rolling stone hills and boulders. It’s a gorgeous setting, and has been used in many movies and ads.