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I’m here to spill the beans on the best hikes near Vegas. Yes, you read that right. Surprisingly, Sin City, famous for its glitzy casinos and nightlife, is also a haven for thrilling outdoor adventures.
In fact, the gorgeous outdoor areas surrounding Vegas are a huge part of what made me so excited to move to this marvelous city. Ready to hit the trail? Buckle up. Here are the best hikes near Vegas.
Fire Wave Trail
🥾 1.5 miles, easy
When it comes to the best hikes near Vegas, the Fire Wave Trail steals the spotlight. Just a short 1-hour drive from the city center, this trail is in the heart of Valley of Fire State Park.
The trek itself is about 1.5 miles long and considered easy. Indeed, it’s not just a walk in the park, but trust me, the stunning fiery red sandstone formations resembling waves of fire make it worth every step.
First Creek Canyon Trail
🥾 3.5 miles, moderate
First Creek Canyon Trail is among the best hikes near Las Vegas. Located only about 30 minutes away from the city, this trail takes you on a 3.5-mile journey through open desert and rugged Red Rock Canyon terrain.
While it’s considered moderately challenging, the chance to spot seasonal waterfalls will undoubtedly make your day. Always remember, in hiking, the journey counts, not just the destination.
Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail
🥾 4.5 miles, hard
Do you enjoy a good soak in natural hot springs? Then, without reservation, you should scribble Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail at the top of your hiking bucket list.
A touch under an hour from Vegas, this trail takes you on a 4.5-mile journey on the more challenging spectrum. But hey, as any good hiker knows, the tougher the climb, the sweeter the reward, right?
Picture this: At the end of your hike, you’re easing yourself into soothing natural hot springs, surrounded by jaw-dropping canyon views. That’s what I call a stellar day out!
Bonus tip: The trail may show a “closed” sign, and it is indeed closed from May through September due to the scorching heat. For the rest of the year, it’s fair game and undoubtedly one of the best hikes near Vegas.
Calico Tanks Trail
🥾 2.5 miles, moderate
Hiking near Las Vegas truly shines with the Calico Tanks Trail. About a 30-minute drive from the city, this 2.5-mile moderate hike is part of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
The trek ends at the Calico Tanks, a hidden water catchment with amazing panoramic views of Las Vegas. It’s a sight to behold, without a doubt.
Guardian Angel Pass
🥾 3.3 miles, hard
If you’re hunting for places to hike in Las Vegas, don’t miss Guardian Angel Pass. Located within the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, this strenuous 3.3-mile hike is 45 minutes from the city.
This trail offers an exhilarating scramble for the adventurous and the fit. Never underestimate the power of a view from the top. It can be life-changing!
Rainbow Vista Trail
🥾 1 mile, easy
Rainbow Vista Trail is one of the most picturesque and best hikes around Las Vegas. Just an hour’s drive away, this easy 1-mile trail in Valley of Fire State Park offers colorful sandstone vistas that will make your Instagram followers green with envy.
And the best part? This vibrant trail offers an ever-changing panorama, so each visit is a unique experience, making it a must-do again and again!
Cathedral Rock Trail
🥾 3 miles, moderate
Cathedral Rock Trail is among the best places to hike near Las Vegas. Just over an hour’s drive away and located in the Mount Charleston area, this trail is a moderately strenuous 3-mile hike. At the summit, you’re rewarded with a sweeping view of Kyle Canyon, which is breathtaking!
Feel free to give a resounding “Yahoo!” when you reach the top – the mountains won’t mind.
Lone Mountain Loop Trail
🥾 3.2 miles, hard
Located within Las Vegas city limits, Lone Mountain Loop Trail is a short but challenging 3.2-mile hike that provides stunning city and desert views. You can almost say it’s Las Vegas hiking at its most convenient!
This trail might be small in length, but let me tell you, it’s mighty in terms of experience. Remember your camera because those panoramic vistas are Instagram gold!
Las Vegas Shoreline Trail
🥾 3.6 miles, easy
Yes, you read it right. There’s a shore to experience here! The Las Vegas Shoreline Trail is part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area and is only about 40 minutes away from the city.
This flat 3.6-mile trail offers a unique perspective of the city. The best part? It’s perfect for all skill levels. You can stroll, jog, or even skip along this scenic route.
Little Falls Trail
🥾 0.8 miles, easy
Just slightly more than an hour’s drive away from Vegas, Little Falls Trail is a relatively easy, short 0.8-mile hike in the Spring Mountain National Recreation Area. But don’t be fooled by the distance.
This trail will lead you to a charming waterfall in a hidden canyon, making it an ideal family hike. And between you and me, there’s something magical about finding a waterfall in the desert.
Pine Creek Canyon, Knoll, and Fire Ecology Loop
🥾 2.8 miles, easy
Consider the Pine Creek Canyon, Knoll, and Fire Ecology Loop if you fancy hiking with evergreen pine trees.
Located in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, this 2.8-mile hike offers everything from beautiful wildflowers to wildlife sightings, just about 30 minutes away from Las Vegas.
And get this – the combination of flowering plants and bird songs along this trail is like a natural orchestra. Just remember to bring your binoculars and a sense of wonder!
Ice Box Canyon Trail
🥾 2.1 miles, moderate
The Ice Box Canyon Trail is about 30 minutes from Vegas, in Red Rock Canyon. This moderately difficult trail is 2.1 miles long, leading you through a deep, shady box canyon, often much cooler than the surrounding desert.
And here’s a bonus fact for you – the trail gets its name from the natural refrigerator effect of the tall canyon walls and foliage blocking the sun, so it’s a great escape on those hot desert days!
Moenkopi Trail
🥾 2 miles, easy
The Moenkopi Trail at Red Rock Canyon is a great place to start for beginners or those looking for a leisurely hike. This easy, 2-mile trail offers panoramic views of the Keystone Thrust, about 30 minutes from the city.
And as you journey along the path, keep an eye out for the interpretive signs that tell tales of the area’s geological history – who says you can’t learn while having fun?
Upper Bristlecone Trail
🥾 4.6 miles, moderate
Nestled in the Spring Mountains, about 45 minutes away from Vegas, the Upper Bristlecone Trail offers a moderately challenging 4.6-mile hike.
This trail allows hikers to walk through a beautiful forest and view the oldest living trees, the bristlecone pines. But it’s not just about the age of these trees, my friend. Their gnarled shapes and the stark beauty they possess add an almost mystical charm to your hike.
Las Vegas Overlook Loop
🥾 6.3 miles, hard
Located in Red Rock Canyon, this hard 6.3-mile loop trail offers a challenging hike with stunning views of Las Vegas and the surrounding desert. It takes roughly 30 minutes from Vegas.
On the way up, you’ll be walking amidst diverse desert flora, and you might even catch sight of some local wildlife. And when you reach the overlook, brace yourself!
The grandeur of the Las Vegas skyline juxtaposed with the tranquil desert expanse is a sight that will leave you speechless, without a doubt.
Petroglyph Canyon Trail
🥾 4.1 miles, moderate
An hour’s drive away, the Petroglyph Canyon Trail is a 4.1-mile moderate hike in Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. This trail isn’t just about the walk and the history. It takes you back in time with its ancient petroglyphs.
As you tread the path of ancient inhabitants, remember to take a moment to marvel at the intricate symbols etched into the rocks. These markings hold the whispers of an age gone by, and you can’t help but feel a profound connection with the past.
Mary Jane Falls Trail
🥾 3.9 miles, moderate
Mary Jane Falls Trail, situated in the Mount Charleston area, is a moderately strenuous 3.9-mile hike. An hour’s drive from Vegas, this trail takes you to a beautiful waterfall and a series of stunning caves. As the sound of the cascading waterfall fills the air, it’s easy to forget the bustling city just an hour away.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even explore the cool, echoing caves. But remember, tread lightly. We’re just visitors to these ancient, natural structures.
There’s a whole world of beauty, adventure, and mystery waiting for you just a stone’s throw from the city’s glittering lights.
So, what are you waiting for? Lace-up those hiking boots, pack snacks and water, and remember the sunscreen! Now get out there and discover some of the best hikes near Vegas. After all, the trails are calling, and you must go!
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