A trip to Las Vegas can be an adventure of a lifetime. With an endless supply of entertainment, gaming, and food, Las Vegas truly is the city that never sleeps.
But after a few days on the Strip, the bright lights and loud sounds of the city can be a bit much, and you’ll probably find yourself craving some solitude in the outdoors.
Luckily, the lands surrounding Las Vegas are filled with picturesque canyons, massive lakes, and miles of trails perfect for stretching your legs and recharging for another evening of fun.
So, the next time you’re in Vegas, take a drive and explore one of these stunning natural areas.
Red Rock Canyon
Located less than 30 minutes from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon is a criminally underrated area for hiking, climbing, and just getting out into nature. Its proximity to the city means you can head out for a trail run in the morning and be back before the rest of the group wakes up for brunch.
Don’t miss the Calico Tanks Trail, which offers just the right amount of challenge without being overly difficult. And the payoff at the end is a spectacular view of the city of Las Vegas.
Mount Charleston
Did you know that less than an hour outside of Las Vegas, there are mountains that are nearly 12,000 feet tall that are home to mountain bike trails in the summer and a ski area in the winter?
Mt. Charleston feels like it’s a world away from the scorching desert below, with its heavily forested slopes and snowy winter ski runs.
Don’t assume you can make a leisurely climb to the top of this peak, as the 8.5-mile trail can get downright cold even during warmer months.
Valley of Fire State Park
Sitting east of Las Vegas, Valley of the Fire State Park is home to stunning red rock formations, petroglyphs, and outstanding hiking and photography opportunities.
With trails running throughout the park, there is no shortage of places to explore. Don’t miss the natural arches and pastel-colored rock formations!
Lake Mead
Lake Mead is the largest man-made reservoir in the country, making it a spectacular place to spend the day on the water. Straddling the border between Nevada and Arizona and terminating at the colossal Hoover Dam, the lake is filled with hidden coves, sandy beaches, and plenty of places to escape the crowds by kayak, paddleboard, or boat.
Sloan Canyon
Bordering the city’s south side, Sloan Canyon Natural Conservation Area covers 48,000 acres of Mojave Desert land and protects important natural areas and cultural artifacts.
The Petroglyph Trail is a can’t-miss hike as it takes you past 300 individual petroglyphs with 1,700 design elements. You’ll have to keep your eye out, though, as many of the petroglyphs are easily missed!
Hoover Dam and the Historic Railroad Trail
Run, hike, or bike along the Historic Railroad Trail, which was originally built to bring in materials for the construction of the Hoover Dam. Along the way you’ll pass through numerous tunnels blasted into the rocks above.
The payoff at the midway point is a stunning view of the Hoover Dam, which is well worth the visit if you have the time.
Bootleg Canyon
Located just south of town, Bootleg Canyon is the go-to spot for adrenaline junkies, with world-class mountain bike trails and thrilling zip lines that will rocket you down the mountain at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour!
Seven Magic Mountains
One of the coolest things about the desert southwest is the abundance of cheap land, and the warm and dry conditions make it the perfect place for outdoor art installations. All over the Mojave Desert, you can find outdoor art, both large and small, that serves little purpose other than as a canvas for artists to show off their creative chops.
Just south of Las Vegas is one such installation known as the Seven Magic Mountains. Like many desert art installations, there is no admittance fee or barriers to entry. This makes it a wonderful place to explore and take in the beauty of nature amongst the brightly colored rock art.
