Las Vegas may be known as a gambling destination, but not all the action is indoors. Situated in the midst of the desert, Las Vegas was once an oasis on the path to California. Today, urban hiking trails act as oases for those who want to stretch their legs and get their hearts pumping without the excitement of casino bells and whistles.
Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs
In northwest Las Vegas, the 880-acre Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs is one of the city's premiere urban parks. Get your heart pumping by hiking, biking or jogging around the park, which also has four small urban lakes for fishing. Pleistocene mammals were discovered here, humans activity dates to 11,000 years ago, and ranch buildings from the early 20th century are museums. Visit on the third Saturday of the month and you can buy fresh local vegetables from the Las Vegas Farmers Market.
Sunset Park
Sunset Park, one of the city's larger parks, is located near the Las Vegas Strip adjacent to McCarran International Airport. The park's newest hiking trail is a dirt-covered loop circling around the duck pond. Folks who have hiked the pond trail recommend wearing older shoes and clothing so new apparel isn’t stained by the dust. The pond covers 14 acres and is between 10 and 12 feet deep. Bring your fishing pole along and cool down while trying your luck at landing a rainbow trout.
Trails at the Springs Preserve
This 180-acre educational and cultural facility is on the city's west side. You don't have to pay to use the extensive trail system, but you must get a free ticket. Hike one or all of the four trails, but vary your pace so you can read the interpretive displays. Don't hike too fast or you'll miss seeing a peregrine falcon or snowy egret. Satisfy the appetite you've worked up with a light meal at the Springs Cafe by Wolfgang Puck, an eco-friendly and sustainable restaurant.
Bob Baskin Park
This park is only six acres but packs a lot of recreation into its urban setting. If your dog is with you, this is the place you can both get a workout; doggie-bag stations are located around the cushioned hiking trail. Exercise stations are set up along the path so you can exercise even more muscles. Bring the kids and let them enjoy the playground, run in the open grasses or cool off with help from the water-squirting whale.
Hiking the Strip
With its exaggerated architecture, the Las Vegas Strip is the most urban hike you can do in Vegas. From one end to the other you'll cover 5.31 miles, and you can hike any time of the day or night. Part of the fun here is the obstacle course you make by dodging tourists. The sidewalks aren't too comfortable, so wear good shoes. You'll find fresh fruit for sale at Walgreens and there are dozens of vegetarian options at restaurants along the way. Feeling overheated? Poke into an air-conditioned casino for a quick cool-down.
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