Las Vegas, Nevada, is a city that never sleeps. Full of lights, partying, and gambling the thought of a quiet hike near this bright city seems non-existent. However, with just a short 30-60 min drive outside the city limits, there are some of the best and most memorable day hikes around. While there are many different types of hikes in these parks we are highlighting hikes that will suit everyone including families and dog friendly.
Red Rock Canyon
Located just 30 minutes west of Las Vegas is Red Rock Conservation Area. This park offers numerous hiking trails as well as a scenic driving route. Red Rock has a reservation system that you’ll need to pick your time slot to enter the park. Learn more about Reservations and Fees Here.
Fun Fact: Red Rock allows drones to be flown inside the park
Calico Tanks
This 2.2 miles out and back hike is one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock Canyon. This is a great hike for families even though it is rated moderate, as it showcases what Red Rock Canyon is known for. In the end, you are rewarded with an amazing view. On clear days you can see the Las Vegas skyline in the distance.
Petroglyph Wall
If you are wanting a short hike with some awesome ancient history. The Petroglyph Wall hike is only a 0.20-mile round trip hike to a wall with historic wall art called petroglyphs. These wall paintings are thought to be around 800 years old. This trailhead is near picnic tables making it perfect for an afternoon snack.
Valley of Fire State Park
East of Las Vegas with a drive of about 60 minutes is Valley Of Fire State Park. This park is quickly gaining a lot of popularity as it has many unique hikes and camping available. At Valley of Fire, you can experience everything from walking on boulders to slot canyons. The most common animals you will encounter are Big Horn sheep and lizards running across the trail. This is a park you will want to visit over and over again.
White Domes Trail
If you are into slot canyons the White Domes Trail is for you. White Domes is a 1.1-mile loop although a short hike there is so much to see. Once you pass the short slot canyon the trail opens up and you can in all of the desert and its glory. Big Horn sheep are known to hang out around this area as well. This is a very popular trail so get there early.
Fire Wave Trail
Another very popular trail in Valley of Fire is the Fire Wave Trail. This 1.5 miles out and back trail leads to large rocks giving a wave look hints its name Fire Wave. This is a very exposed area with little to no shade, this trail is best hiked early in the morning or later in the evening. As always bring plenty of water on any hike in the desert.
Rainbow Vista Trail
Rainbow Vista gets its name from the view of the trailhead. However, if you are wanting a stunning and textured overlook for a hike the Rainbow Vista trail will not disappoint. This is a 1.1 mile out and back trail that will take you through a sandy and rocky terrain. The end of the trail shows an amazing overlook of Fire Canyon. You can also access a side of the Fire Canyon Overlook by car if you are not wanting to hike.
While these are just a few of the hikes that can be accessed outside of Las Vegas, they are the most popular, and for good reason. Always remember to pack enough water. Even though these day hikes don’t seem very long the desert can be very unforgiving, especially during mid-day. Happy Hiking.
