Hiking Trails Near Las Vegas: While Las Vegas is known to be the entertainment capital of the world, there are many stunning hiking trails near Sin City that offer an opportunity to explore the rich natural scenery of Nevada.
From climbing red rock hills to enjoying a rejuvenating bath in hot springs, there are different hikes that offer the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Nevada.
Whether you’re looking for a beginner-friendly trail or want to go on a challenging route, you’ll find it here.
From discovering the natural attractions in Valley of Fire State Park to soaking in the beauty of Lake Mead, there are plenty of stunning landscapes for hikers to see.
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Wondering where to begin?
Let’s help you narrow down your choices with our list of the top-rated hiking trails near Las Vegas, NV: –
Ice Box Canyon, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area #1
With towering canyon walls on both sides and lush trees and shrubs along the way, the Ice Box Canyon trail offers an enjoyable experience.
It’s almost a 2.6-mile to-and-fro hike along the canyon floor.
While the Red Rock Canyon area can get quite hot, this route is cooler. Be prepared to climb on boulders as you make your way deeper.
If you’re visiting between December to April, you will be rewarded by seasonal waterfalls here too.
Fire Wave, Valley of Fire State Park #2
Valley of Fire State Park is popular amongst hikers and offers one of the most fascinating hikes in the park, the Fire Wave.
The trail leads to a big orange fin and opens up to showcase vast areas of ribbed sandstone and colourful stone hills featuring beautiful hues of orange, green, yellow, and turquoise.
It’s only 1.2 miles out and back.
If you wish, feel free to explore the stunning stone hills. The place is a haven for photographers.
Calico Tank, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area #3
Up for a bit of a challenge?
The Calico Tank trail runs for around 2.2 miles and leads to Calico Tank, a natural water catchment.
The scenic hike will take you over red rocks and stone stairs and up a canyon to the water body.
You’ll need to use your hands to climb ridges at certain points, but your efforts will be rewarded with incredible views.
From soaking in the vast desert to watching mountains in the distance, the hike offers a memorable experience.
Petroglyph Trail #4
Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, this trail won’t disappoint. Running for around 4.4 miles, it has an elevation gain of around 500 feet.
You’ll see more than 300 intriguing petroglyphs on boulders along the way, which makes it extremely popular amongst history enthusiasts.
You might have to scramble along the way for a bit.
The best time to go for it is during spring when you’ll have beautiful desert wildflowers all around. The trail is free to use, just check in at the Sloan Canyon Visitor Contact Station.
The Historic Railroad Trail #5
The Historic Railroad Trail is a 7.5-mile out-and-back trail and will take you through an old railroad track from the 1930s.
One of the reasons for the popularity of this trail is that it’s accessible and interesting.
It will take you through different tunnels with many signposts along the way that offer information about particular parts of the trail.
Got a furry friend?
The trail is dog-friendly.
It also offers beautiful views of Lake Mead and the desert landscape.
Got some more time on your hands?
You can take a guided tour of the Hoover Dam Visitor Center which is easily accessible via an elevator at the end of the trail.
White Domes, Valley of Fire State Park #6
Featured in several movies, this scenic trail in Valley of Fire State Park will take you through a stunning slot canyon.
Starting out on the sand, it takes you through some stone stairs, leading you to a small area with rolling stone hills, rock fins, and boulders all around.
Once you reach the canyon’s backside, your efforts shall be rewarded with beautiful views of the desert landscape.
The vista of red rock ridges and mountains in the distance is a mesmerizing sight.
Arizona Hot Springs Trail #7
How about a rejuvenating dip after a great hike?
Hike the Arizona Hot Springs Trail. It makes for a 5.1-mile round trip and is a moderately difficult hike.
The trail will lead you through a narrow slot canyon. During some times around the year, you will even see water flowing along the canyon floor.
As you move towards the trail’s end, you’ll find a ladder that will take you to the Arizona Hot Springs.
Soak in the refreshingly warm waters which have a temperature between 111- and 120-degrees Fahrenheit.
The round trip has an elevation loss and gain of around 740 feet as you go down and return back up.
Take note that the hike is rated as difficult. Make sure to check for any closures or alerts before planning your hike here.
Calico Hills, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area #8
One of the main features of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is the stunning red stone formations called Calico Hills.
You can explore this fascinating area through a trail that runs through the hills.
It is easily accessible from various parking lots near the Visitor Center. The length of the hike will depend upon your access point. It can be as short as two miles and as long as six miles.
Bristlecone Trail, Mt. Charleston Wilderness #9
Looking for a break from desert scenery?
Head to the 6.3 miles out and about Bristlecone Trail in the Lee Canyon Area. You’ll walk through lush forest areas that offer ample shade on the hike and surreal mountain views.
You can begin the hike from two different access points, the Lower Bristlecone trailhead and the Upper Bristlecone trailhead, both of which have ample parking available.
During the hike, you’ll have the opportunity to view the local flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for the endangered Mount Charleston Blue Butterfly.
So, start with the one that attracts you the most and get ready for an epic hiking experience.
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FAQs:-
Q. What time of year is best to hike in Vegas?
October through April is the best time to go hiking in most of the Vegas area.
Q. Does Nevada have good hiking?
There are plenty of incredible hiking trails in Nevada that go through sprawling national parks, desert regions, and mountains.
Q. What is the closest hike to Las Vegas?
Owl Canyon Trail at Lake Mead is only a twenty-minute drive away from Las Vegas while Arizona Hot Springs Trail is around a half an hour drive away.