"Sin City" is famous for flashy hotels, glittering slot machines and celebrity visits. Las Vegas features a variety of scenic outdoor activities beyond the famed Strip. Active pursuits are available in this desert city with golfing, hiking, rock climbing and extreme activities. Outdoor activities are friendly to all skill and age levels, emphasizing the area's beauty beyond the Las Vegas Strip.
Golfing
With more than 55 golf courses in the Las Vegas area, golfers can play at courses designed by professional golfers or architects, including Jack Nicklaus, Raymond Floyd and Arnold Palmer. (Bear's Best Las Vegas has been voted "Best Places to Play" by Golf Digest magazine and "Best Golf Course in Las Vegas" by the Las Vegas Review Journal. Arnold Palmer designed world-class Red Rock Country Club. This scenic course features panoramic views of Las Vegas and mountains while passing numerous palm trees and waterfalls.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing in Red Rock Canyon is a popular destination for climbers. Located 19 miles west of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon is friendly with climbers of all skill levels. From boulders to walls, Red Rock features more than 1,000 routes for beginners or experienced climbers. Red Rock Climbing Center offers guided climbing lessons on indoor walls for individuals or groups to learn the necessary skills before trying outdoor climbing. Climbing gear is also available for sale.
Hiking
Hiking in the desert is stunning, but can be dangerous in extreme heat. Hiking in Las Vegas is recommended in November through March. Locals hit the trails in Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire State Park. Viewing colorful rocks and petroglyphs the Valley of Fire features numerous day hikes ranging from under one mile to two miles long. Hikers are encouraged to visit the visitors' center before hiking for weather updates and map of hiking trails.
Skydiving
Vegas is known for "extreme" buildings, shows and casinos. There is no better way to view Vegas than skydiving at 15,000 feet in the air at top speeds of 140 miles per hour. Vegas Extreme Skydiving plunges jumpers tandem viewing the city, Red Rock National Park and Mount Charleston. Adrenaline junkies are trained before jumping out of the plane. Once the parachute opens, take in the tranquility as it takes five to seven minutes to reach the ground.
Kayaking
Kayaking natural areas of the Vegas region keeps travelers active while paddling through Lake Mead, Hoover Dam or the Colorado River through the Black Canyon. Paddlers can bring their own kayaks to each destination or register for guided trips with a tour company. Evolution Expeditions Kayaking feature tours to these natural areas and welcomes paddlers at all skill levels. All paddlers receive thorough instructions before the tour. Daytime and moonlight tours are available.
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