The top 5 hiking trails near Las Vegas

While the Strip’s neon lights and jackpot chimes may steal the limelight, let’s not forget about the natural jackpot that Las Vegas residents hit with the trails just a stone’s throw from the glimmering city.

Whether you’re looking to swap poker chips for boulders or treadmills for trails, there’s a scenic trek waiting to elevate your weekend plans — literally. From the fiery hues of ancient rock formations to the cool serenity of hidden waterfalls, your next outdoor adventure is closer than you think.

So lace up those hiking boots, pack a water bottle or two (remember, hydration is king in our desert dominion), and get ready to explore the top-ranking trails that make living in Vegas a winning hand for nature lovers.

5. White Domes Trail

Location: Valley of Fire State Park, Overton, NV

Length: 1.1-mile loop

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

White Domes Trail offers adventurers a picturesque and leisurely trail across the Valley of Fire State Park’s sandy and rocky terrain. Its relatively short length makes it a family-friendly option for those interested in immersing themselves in nature without committing to a strenuous hike.

The trail is distinguished by its unique rock formations, including a blend of stark white domes contrasting against red sandstone, and remnants of an old movie set. Hikers appreciate the accessible yet dynamic landscape that provides an encapsulation of the park’s geologic wonders in a bite-sized package.

4. Lone Mountain Trail

Location: Lone Mountain, Las Vegas, NV

Length: 2.2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Perched in the northwest area of Las Vegas, the trail to the top of Lone Mountain offers a quick yet intense workout with an elevation gain that promises rewarding views of the city and surrounding areas. Although it’s known for being steep, the trail’s short distance makes it an achievable climb for many hikers. Pathways are well-marked, and the rocky landscape ensures good footing.

This local favorite is cherished for its convenient city access, providing an urban escape and panoramic photo opportunities right in the backyard of Las Vegas.

3. First Creek Canyon Trail

Location: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, off State Route 159

Length: 3.4 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The First Creek Canyon Trail is a delightful trek that leads hikers through the Mojave Desert landscape of Red Rock Canyon and culminates at a charming seasonal waterfall. It boasts a gentle terrain that is suitable for casual hikers as well as those looking for a serene ambiance away from the bustling Vegas Strip.

The route’s relative ease and the abundance of indigenous flora and fauna, along with the chance to witness water in the desert, make it a popular choice. It’s an ideal hike for families and nature lovers who seek tranquility.

2. Fire Wave Trail

Location: Valley of Fire State Park, Overton, NV

Length: 1.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Nestled within the scorching landscapes of Valley of Fire State Park, the Fire Wave Trail presents an unforgettable hike leading to one of the park’s most renowned features. Resembling an oceanic wave frozen in time, the trail’s namesake sandstone formations showcase a breathtaking display of layered color bands.

This short hike attracts photography enthusiasts and geology buffs alike, offering a glimpse into the artistic craftsmanship of natural elements. Despite its relatively easy terrain, summer hikes require caution due to extreme temperatures.

1. Calico Tanks Trail

Location: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Calico Basin

Length: 2.4 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Topping the list is the Calico Tanks Trail, a hike that winds through the heart of the sandstone-rich Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area. With an elevation gain of over 400 feet, it presents a challenge that is rewarded with sweeping views of the Las Vegas Valley.

The trail is appreciated for its interaction with the vibrant red rock formations and the desert ecosystem’s thriving biodiversity. It’s particularly popular among tourists and locals for the varied terrain, ranging from sandy washes to rocky scrambles, offering an authentic taste of southern Nevada’s rugged beauty.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The Nevadan staff.