The landscapes surrounding Las Vegas can be just as captivating as the bright lights of the city itself. From the rolling hills and plunging canyons of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area to the Valley of Fire State Park, Lake Mead, and the epic contours of Mount Charleston, you don’t have to travel far to feel like you’ve entered another world.
Here’s our Top 10 Las Vegas hiking trails to fuel your wanderlust - and don't forget to book your hotel with Trip.com…
1. White Domes, Valley of Fire State Park
Famed for its cinematic vistas, this epic but eminently manageable route winds through sand-blasted canyons and jagged fins of crimson rock formations. You’ll feel like a hero in your very own cowboy movie.
2. Mount Charleston Hiking Trails
This 12,000-foot (3,650m) mountain is crisscrossed by hiking trails, some of which reach almost two thirds up the crumbling slopes. This lets you escape the heat of the Nevada lowlands and enjoy some fresh alpine air and comparatively cooler climes. Two of the most popular trails here are Mary Jane Falls and Big Falls.
3. Lake Mead Railway Trail
This classic trail follows the skeleton of an old railway track, winding around the contours of the land and overlooking Lake Mead. Over a distance of 7.5 miles (12 km), the track will take you through 5tunnels, past beautiful scenery and camping grounds. Perfect for cycling, running and dog walks, or simply taking a stroll and admiring the view
4. Petroglyph Trail, Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area
Located south of Las Vegas, Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is an area of more than 48,000 acres that’s home to ancient rock art, some of which has been dated to around 4,000 years old. This 4.5-mile (7.2 km) hike carries showcases around 300 of these amazing petroglyphs, etched on boulders and smooth rock surfaces that dot the hillsides. The path is relatively easy, taking you up a total of around 500 feet (150m), with some minor scrambling required. With spellbinding relics lurking around every corner, you’ll feel like you’re following in the footsteps of distant ancestors.
5. Calico Hills, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
The Calico Hills are an eye-catching landmark in the Nevada scenery – a clutch of red stone formations to the west of Vegas that are just begging to be explored. You can reach them with ease via a scenic drive, and then take your pick of hiking trails, with various lengths and difficulty levels available.
6. Rainbow Vista and Fire Canyon, Valley of Fire State Park
This 1.1-mile (1.8 km) trail is ideally suited to four-legged companions. Throughout this gentle yet awe-inspiring walk, the scenery appears to glow and pulse with swirling patterns of red, pink and orange. These incredible rock tapestries are punctuated by views into the valleys of Fire State Park.
7. Echo Overlook Trail- Spring Mountains National Recreation Area
Stretching 4.6 miles (7.5 km) through pathways bursting with wildflowers, the Echo Overlook Trail is brilliant for bird watching and botany. You can also saddle up and ride a horse here, which lends an extra layer of beauty and romance to the already marvelous scenery.
8. Ice Box Canyon, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
This 2.6-mile hike takes you along the lush carpet of a verdant valley floor, stepping around giant boulders in the shadow of soaring canyon walls. Like nothing else in the Vegas desert, the Ice Box is as cool as it gets.
9. Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch, & Badlands Loop Hikes in Death Valley National Park
A few of the most popular routes in this area are the Badlands Loop, Golden Canyon and Red Cathedral, and Gower Gulch Loop. Take them on individually, or combine them into a mammoth 8-mile (13 km) adventure known as the Complete Circuit, which sets off from either Golden Canyon or Zabriskie Point. This extraordinary moonscape is an otherworldly adventure in every direction.
10. Clark County Wetlands Park Nature Preserve
You don’t have to travel far in Vegas to explore the region’s natural wonders. The Clark Country Wetlands Park Nature Preserve is actually within the city limits – this urban oasis is home to a network of walking trails where you can walk, cycle, or take the dog for a walk. Here you can expect to see a wide range of waterfowl, along with turtles, beavers, and rabbits. The most popular trails set out from near the Nature Centre, or via the Duck Creek Trailhead.
With so many amazing hiking trails right on the city’s doorstep, Las Vegas offers a unique opportunity to get off grid without actually having to go too far.
FAQ about Las Vegas Hiking Trails
-
How far are the mountains from Las Vegas Strip?
Believe it or not, you can get from the strip to the mountains in just 25 mins. That makes them an ideal alternative to some of the city’s more expensive or less healthy trappings.
-
What are the mountains surrounding Vegas, and how do I get there?
You’ll find mountains in just about every direction from Vegas, and each set of natural wonders has its own unique character. To the west, there’s the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is great for hiking, biking and rock climbing. Keep going west and you’ll get to Mount Charleston, about an hour’s drive from Vegas. To the south is the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, while Lake Mead is off to the east. Whichever direction you turn, you won’t be far from some truly unforgettable treks!
-
When is the best time to go?
You can go hiking in the hills around Las Vegas all year round, but most hikers insist the best time is from September to May. This being the desert, summertime can get pretty hot, so plan ahead and pack accordingly.
-
What gear do I need?
Depending on which trail you take, you might not need anything more serious than a good pair of walking shoes. Some trails demand a little more preparation though, such as walking sticks or even ropes. Wherever you go, sun protection – both hats and sunscreen – is an absolute must, along with plenty of water.