A trip to Vegas doesn’t have to be about visiting the Strip. Lace up your shoes, get outside, and spend time in nature with these best hikes near Las Vegas.
Despite being known for the casinos and vibrant nightlife of Las Vegas, Nevada is also home to some incredible desert landscapes and natural wonders. Check out some of the best hikes near Las Vegas that you can add to your itinerary for your next trip to Sin City.
When planning a trip, be aware that Nevada is covered in desert, and the temperatures can be extreme. Make sure you bring plenty of water, plan your trips to avoid the heat of the day, and watch out for rattlesnakes. In order to be a respectful hiker, keep your distance from wildlife, don’t leave any garbage on the trail, and be prepared.
1. Ice Box Canyon
The Ice Box Canyon Trail is a 2.2 mile hike located in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Don’t let the short distance trick you, this hike is quite strenuous, and will take approximately 2 hours to complete. If you visit between December and April, you can enjoy waterfalls in the narrow canyon. You will hike through open desert to reach the canyon, and scramble on loose rocks, so be sure to wear sturdy footwear.
2. Lake Mead Railway Trail
If you’re looking for one of the best easy hikes near Las Vegas, look no further than the Lake Mead Railway Trail located in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This 7.5 mile roundtrip hike follows a former railroad grade, goes through various tunnels, and gives you stunning views over Lake Mead and the Boulder Basin. This trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and you can bring your dog along too — it makes a great family day out.
3. Petroglyph Trail
One of the best hikes near Las Vegas is the Petroglyph Trail (Trail 100), located in Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. You will have the chance to see over 300 petroglyphs on boulders scattered throughout this 4.4 mile hike. It’s a relatively easy trail, but does involve a bit of scrambling, so make sure you’re prepared.
There’s no charge to use the conservation area, but you will need to check in with the visitor contact center before heading out on a hike. Visit in the spring for cooler temperatures and the chance to see the desert wildflowers in bloom.
4. Anniversary Narrows and Anniversary Peak
Located in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, this 8.2 mile loop trail is easily one of the best hikes near Las Vegas. It’s not for beginners, as it is considered to be moderately challenging, and goes through one of the most beautiful slot canyons in the state.
The ridge and saddle offer great views of the Bowl of Fire, while Lake Mead can be seen from the summit. Skip this hike if there is rain in the forecast, as flash flooding is a serious issue in the narrows, and watch out for old mines — they are not safe to enter.
5. Big Falls Hike
Head a bit further west out of the city, and you’ll find beautiful hikes in the Mt. Charleston area. The Big Falls hike is one of the best spring hikes near Las Vegas, as the snowmelt ensures an impressive view of the 100ft. waterfall. It’s a moderately challenging 3.5 mile out and back hike, which does require a bit of scrambling over boulders.
Read more:
- Wild Camping: A Beginner’s Guide to Free Camping in the US & Canada
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- 8 Tips That Make Hiking With a Baby Easy & Fun
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