Valley of Fire State Park

Why You’ll Love It

Swim, boat, hike, cycle, camp and fish at America’s first and largest national recreation area. With striking landscapes and brilliant blue waters, this year-round playground spreads across 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, valleys and two vast lakes. See the Hoover Dam from the waters of Lake Mead or Lake Mohave, or find solitude in one of the park's nine wilderness areas.

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Why You’ll Love It

The journey to the Hidden Forest Cabin is a beloved excursion for Las Vegas residents. It guides hikers through diverse landscapes, from mid-elevation Joshua tree forest to a pinyon-juniper woodland and finally into a higher elevation ponderosa pine forest. So what exactly does that mean? It means the topography changes the higher you go. That's a pretty big deal because it's a rare opportunity to find a moderate hike that spans multiple life zones like this one. The cabin itself serves as a comforting retreat for tired hikers and an intriguing hub for exploration, while a modest spring stands as the sole dependable water source beyond the visitor center, though its flow is subject to variation.

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Why You’ll Love It

(Read in a Western accent): Stranded and lonesome on a desolate, dust-choked highway, you happen upon a town that's seen sunnier days. The earth, parched as it may be, holds the tales of highwaymen who once ruled these parts. All that endures now is the gold mine, the husks of buildings, a rusty petrol station, and the contraptions that ousted man from his trusty steed. AKA cars. This incredibly well-preserved ghost town is a one-of-a-kind and a must-see for history buffs.

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Why You’ll Love It

Lake Las Vegas is a relaxing place to hang out all year round, an expansive 320-acre masterpiece of golf courses, private estates, lakeside hotels, and restaurants. But in the summer months, it becomes a liquid playground with floating bounce houses, booze cruises, electric boats, watersports, and concerts.

Why You’ll Love It

Winding across nearly 8 miles round trip, this serene trail unveils breathtaking panoramas of Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the surrounding pristine landscapes. The five railroad tunnels frame different picturesque scenes at each end. Whether you opt for a leisurely bike ride, a walk with your stroller, or a hike in well-worn boots, this trail seamlessly weaves beauty into every step.

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Why You’ll Love It

Less than an hour away from the Strip, Mt. Charleston is literally the most perfect escape from Vegas imaginable. This mountain paradise is bursting with scenic vistas, offering top-tier hiking experiences. And when winter arrives, the mountain transforms into a playground for skiing and snowboarding. It's a peaceful retreat, inviting you to unwind just beyond the city lights.

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Why You’ll Love It

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