Las Vegas may be known for its nightlife and entertainment on The Strip, but it is a valley surrounded by stunning mountains to explore. The most popular outdoor attraction is Red Rock Canyon, close to the edge of Las Vegas, but areas farther away have just as much to offer.
Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is a National Conservation Area just west of Las Vegas. It is made of Aztec Sandstone and incorporates a fault called the Keystone Thrust. There is a scenic drive that goes around the entire park, with pull-off points where you can go hiking, climbing, or picnicking in the park. The park's visitor center offers information about the flora, fauna, and geology of the Red Rock Canyon.
Calico Basin Red Springs
Just outside the entrance to the Red Rock Canyon Park is a smaller, fee-free area where you can hike around and explore the sandstone cliffs called Calico Basin Red Springs. There is a short boardwalk that leads to a grassy viewing area near picnic tables and grills. You can hike up on the large boulders and look out over the National Conservation Area and toward the city of Las Vegas.
Mt. Charleston
Mt. Charleston is part of the Spring Mountain Range at 11,918 feet tall and provides an escape from the intense summer heat in the valley. The terrain is completely different than the Mojave Desert just 35 miles away with forests of junipers and Ponderosa pines and a variety of trail lengths and intensities to accommodate any level hiker. An easy trail takes you to Mary Jane Falls, and the Charleston Peak hike takes you up to the top of the mountain, a 16-mile round trip hike.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
The lake was created by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River and is most often used by boaters and fishermen. The hiking trails that surround the lake, though, are beautiful and wind through the desert showing off canyons and wildlife. It is best to hike here in the winter when the temperatures are cooler. There are views of the Hoover Dam and you can hike to hot springs.
Valley of Fire
This is Nevada's oldest state park, which opened in 1935. It is named for the stark contrast of the park's red sandstone to the surrounding desert, especially at sunset. You can see petroglyphs in the park, but the ecosystem is fragile, so you must stay on trails at all times.
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