Sean's Tip

One of the best places to hike and experience Mother Nature in Las Vegas, this conservation area is known for its rich, towering red mountains and the Keystone Thrust Fault. It's a haven for outdoorsy people, but you can still drive the scenic loop if it's too hot to get out and walk.

+ 3 Recommend

Sean's Tip

Fire Wave is an easy hike that's best early in the day when crowds are lighter and pic/videos can be taken without hikers in the background. There's a short time when you hike through sand, so empty your boots before getting back in the car! Atlatl Rock features a block of red sandstone inscribed with primitive petroglyphs. It's adjacent to the parking lot and up a 50 ft staircase. No hiking required! My favorite is the easy-moderate White Domes Canyon trail that goes through sherbet-colored sandstone that can be strenuous. Two more easy trails are the Beehives and The Cabins. Wildlife to watch for: Bighorn Sheep, Coyotes, Tortoises, Antelope, Lizards, Snakes, Birds, and Roadrunners.

Recommend

Sean's Tip

Embark on the 8.2-mile out-and-back trail leading to the apex of the Hoover Dam, offering a captivating walking tour of the structure. Cyclists are invited to traverse this trail, while dogs are also permitted, although caution is advised due to the crowded conditions atop the Dam.

Recommends

Sean's Tip

Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail is a moderate-hard trail with hot springs near the halfway point. The hike is downhill going in and arduous on the way back. Bring more water than you think you need and avoid it during the summer months. Bring a change of clothes so you don’t have to hike back wet and do not dunk your head in unless you want to get sick. Enjoy a day on the lake, explore the steep walls of the Colorado River, cruise right up to the base of the Hoover Dam, or even test your fishing skills. Just acquire a valid fishing license first. Make a stop at Hemenway Park in Boulder City on the way to Lake Mead for incredible views.

Recommends

Sean's Tip

Hold on to your hats while exploring the top of the dam! High winds may easily blow your cap off, and once it's over the edge, it's gone. In addition to walking along the top, they have a museum and guided tours that take you inside the dam to learn more about how it all works. It's absolutely worth it and is a fantastic family fun activity.

Recommend

Sean's Tip

Once you reach the old game warden cabin, write your name in the logbook inside before enjoying a picnic lunch at the tables outside. Believe it or not, people actually spend the night in the cabin, even though the Fish & Wildlife Service asks you not to. So, always have a backup camping plan. The trail does wash out in certain places and can become difficult to navigate, but it's hard to get lost because it's in the same canyon the entire way.

Recommends

Sean's Tip

Skiing and snowboarding lift access is available during most winter months, while scenic chair lifts and lift access mountain biking are available for warmer summer months. My favorite trails are in the backcountry that will have you weaving through aspens and evergreens. Pay attention to the signs and stay on the trail at all times! Never duck the signs! There is a full-service bar and restaurant at the resort, but be prepared to pay resort prices! In the winter, you can pack a lunch, and it's cold enough to leave in your car. Mary Jane Falls is a moderate trail great for families that's home to one of Southern Nevada’s few natural waterfalls. The trail is entirely uphill via switchbacks, so take some time to rest and breathe in that fresh mountain air at over 8000 feet of elevation! Cathedral Rock is another moderate trail that winds uphill through thick patches of aspens and evergreens that lead to the top of the extraordinary Echo Cliffs that tower nearly 1,000 feet over the canyon below. It's also the only place on earth to view the Palmer Chipmunk! Do not feed them! It may be tempting as they have become accustomed to receiving handouts but don't do it.

Recommend