Las Vegas, Nevada, is known for its casinos, shows, and nightlife. But there’s more to Las Vegas than just gambling and entertainment. The city is also surrounded by beautiful desert scenery, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best activities around Las Vegas.
If you’re looking for something to do outside, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can go hiking, biking, off-roading, or rock climbing in the nearby mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go skydiving or hot air ballooning.
If you’re looking for something more relaxing, you can visit the Hoover Dam, take a boat tour of Lake Mead, or go for a swim in the hot springs at Red Rock Canyon. And if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, you can visit the Valley of Fire, a state park with stunning red rock formations.
Outdoor Activities Around Las Vegas
Table of Contents
Las Vegas offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are five of the most popular:
- Hiking
- Biking
- Off-roading
- Rock climbing
- Skydiving
These activities are all available within a short drive of the city, and they offer a great way to experience the natural beauty of the surrounding desert.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Las Vegas. There are many different trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Some of the most popular hiking trails include:
- The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which has over 26 miles of hiking trails.
- The Valley of Fire State Park, which has over 40 miles of hiking trails.
- The Mount Charleston Wilderness Area, which has over 50 miles of hiking trails.
When hiking in Las Vegas, it is important to be prepared for the desert environment. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and dress in layers. It is also important to be aware of the weather forecast, as flash floods can occur in the desert.
If you are new to hiking, it is a good idea to start with an easy trail. Once you have some experience, you can gradually progress to more challenging hikes. There are many resources available online and in local hiking stores to help you plan your hike.
Hiking is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Las Vegas area. With its many different trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Biking
Biking is another popular outdoor activity in Las Vegas. There are many different bike trails to choose from, ranging from paved paths to off-road trails. Some of the most popular biking trails include:
- The Las Vegas Wash Trail, which is a 12-mile paved trail that runs along the Las Vegas Wash.
- The River Mountains Loop Trail, which is a 32-mile paved trail that loops around the River Mountains.
- The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which has over 50 miles of bike trails, both paved and unpaved.
When biking in Las Vegas, it is important to be prepared for the desert environment. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and dress in layers. It is also important to be aware of the weather forecast, as flash floods can occur in the desert.
If you are new to biking, it is a good idea to start with an easy trail. Once you have some experience, you can gradually progress to more challenging trails. There are many resources available online and in local bike shops to help you plan your ride.
Biking is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Las Vegas area. With its many different trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Off-roading
Off-roading is a popular outdoor activity in Las Vegas, and there are many different trails to choose from. Some of the most popular off-roading trails include:
- The McCullough Hills Trail, which is a 6-mile trail that winds through the McCullough Hills.
- The Old Spanish Trail, which is a 10-mile trail that follows the old Spanish trade route.
- The Lovell Canyon Trail, which is a 12-mile trail that leads to the Lovell Canyon Reservoir.
When off-roading in Las Vegas, it is important to be prepared for the desert environment. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and dress in layers. It is also important to be aware of the weather forecast, as flash floods can occur in the desert.
It is also important to be aware of the different types of off-road vehicles that are allowed on each trail. Some trails are only open to certain types of vehicles, such as ATVs or Jeeps. It is important to check the trail regulations before you go.
Off-roading is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Las Vegas area. With its many different trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Rock climbing
Rock climbing is a popular outdoor activity in Las Vegas, and there are many different climbing areas to choose from. Some of the most popular climbing areas include:
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon is home to some of the most popular climbing routes in Las Vegas. There are over 2,000 climbing routes in the canyon, ranging from easy to difficult. Red Rock Canyon is also a popular destination for bouldering.
- Mount Charleston
Mount Charleston is another popular climbing destination in Las Vegas. There are over 1,000 climbing routes on Mount Charleston, ranging from easy to difficult. Mount Charleston is also a popular destination for ice climbing in the winter.
- Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park is home to some of the most unique climbing routes in Las Vegas. The park’s sandstone formations offer a variety of climbing challenges. Valley of Fire is also a popular destination for bouldering.
- Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers a variety of climbing opportunities, including both sport climbing and traditional climbing. The park’s limestone cliffs offer a variety of climbing challenges. Lake Mead is also a popular destination for bouldering.
Rock climbing is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Las Vegas area. With its many different climbing areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Skydiving
Skydiving is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Las Vegas. There are several skydiving companies that operate in the city, and they offer a variety of jump options to choose from. First-time jumpers can choose to do a tandem jump, where they are attached to an experienced instructor. More experienced jumpers can choose to do a solo jump.
Skydiving in Las Vegas is a truly unforgettable experience. Jumpers can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding desert. Skydiving is also a great way to get an adrenaline rush.
If you are considering skydiving in Las Vegas, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable company. You should also make sure that you are in good physical condition and that you are not afraid of heights.
Skydiving is a safe and exciting activity, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved. Before you jump, you will be given a safety briefing by an experienced instructor. You will also be provided with all of the necessary equipment.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about outdoor activities around Las Vegas:
Question 1: What are the most popular outdoor activities in Las Vegas?
Answer 1: The most popular outdoor activities in Las Vegas include hiking, biking, off-roading, rock climbing, and skydiving.
Question 2: Where can I find information about hiking trails in Las Vegas?
Answer 2: You can find information about hiking trails in Las Vegas on the websites of the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Nevada Division of State Parks.
Question 3: What are the best bike trails in Las Vegas?
Answer 3: Some of the best bike trails in Las Vegas include the Las Vegas Wash Trail, the River Mountains Loop Trail, and the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
Question 4: Where can I go off-roading in Las Vegas?
Answer 4: Some of the most popular off-roading trails in Las Vegas include the McCullough Hills Trail, the Old Spanish Trail, and the Lovell Canyon Trail.
Question 5: Where are the best rock climbing areas in Las Vegas?
Answer 5: Some of the most popular rock climbing areas in Las Vegas include Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Mount Charleston, Valley of Fire State Park, and Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Question 6: Where can I go skydiving in Las Vegas?
Answer 6: There are several skydiving companies that operate in Las Vegas. You can find more information about skydiving in Las Vegas on the websites of these companies.
Question 7: What are some tips for staying safe while enjoying outdoor activities in Las Vegas?
Answer 7: Some tips for staying safe while enjoying outdoor activities in Las Vegas include:
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Be aware of the weather forecast.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Stay on designated trails.
- Be respectful of wildlife.
Tips
Here are some tips for enjoying outdoor activities around Las Vegas:
- Bring plenty of water – It’s important to stay hydrated in the desert climate.
- Wear sunscreen – The sun’s rays can be harsh, so it’s important to protect your skin.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear – Choose clothing that is comfortable and breathable, and wear sturdy footwear that provides good support.
- Be aware of the weather forecast – The weather in the desert can change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared for rain, sun, or wind.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable time enjoying the outdoor activities that Las Vegas has to offer.
Outdoor activities around Las Vegas offer something for everyone, from hiking and biking to off-roading and rock climbing. With its stunning scenery and warm weather, Las Vegas is the perfect place to get outdoors and explore.
Conclusion
Las Vegas is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. With its stunning scenery and warm weather, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a challenging hike, a leisurely bike ride, or an adrenaline-pumping off-roading adventure, you will find it in Las Vegas.
Here are some of the main points to remember when planning your outdoor activities around Las Vegas:
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Be aware of the weather forecast.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Stay on designated trails.
- Be respectful of wildlife.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable time enjoying the outdoor activities that Las Vegas has to offer.