Things To Do In Or Around Las Vegas – Your Ultimate Outdoor
When you hear “Las Vegas,” your mind probably jumps to neon lights, sprawling casinos, and world-class shows. And while the Strip has its own kind of wild, many travelers agree that the real, untamed adventure lies just beyond the city limits.
We promise to show you a different side of Sin City. This guide is built for explorers like you who crave the quiet solitude of a desert trail over the noise of a casino floor. We’ll skip the buffets and focus on the good stuff: breathtaking canyons, ancient rock art, and pristine waterways.
Get ready to discover the best outdoor things to do in or around las vegas. We’ll cover epic hikes in Red Rock Canyon, otherworldly landscapes in Valley of Fire, and refreshing water adventures on the Colorado River. Let’s gear up and explore.
Ditch the Strip: Why the Mojave Desert is Your Real Playground
The Mojave Desert isn’t just empty space; it’s a vibrant, resilient ecosystem brimming with life and geological wonders. Trading a day on the Strip for a day on the trail offers a completely different kind of reward.
You’ll find quiet, expansive views that stretch for miles, allowing you to truly disconnect and recharge. The deep reds of the sandstone, the stark beauty of the Joshua trees, and the vast, starry night skies are experiences a casino simply can’t replicate.
Exploring this landscape offers incredible benefits of things to do in or around las vegas that go beyond just sightseeing. It’s a chance to build confidence, practice essential outdoor skills, and connect with nature in one of the most unique environments in North America.
Red Rock Canyon: A Hiker’s Paradise Just Minutes Away
Just a 30-minute drive from the heart of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area feels like another planet. Its massive red and cream-colored sandstone cliffs rise dramatically from the desert floor, creating a stunning backdrop for hiking, climbing, and scenic drives.
Before you go, check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for Red Rock. You may need a timed entry reservation for the 13-mile scenic drive, especially during peak season (October through May). This is one of the most important things to do in or around las vegas tips to avoid being turned away at the gate.
Must-Do Trails for Every Skill Level
Red Rock offers trails for everyone, from first-time hikers to seasoned scramblers. Always carry more water than you think you’ll need.
- Beginner (Petroglyph Wall Trail): This is a very short, 0.2-mile walk to a rock face covered in 800-year-old petroglyphs. It’s a fantastic, easy stop for a dose of history and culture.
- Intermediate (Calico Tanks Trail): This 2.2-mile round-trip trail involves some fun rock scrambling and rewards you with a hidden water pocket (the “tank”) and a fantastic view of the Las Vegas skyline from the top. Wear boots with good grip, like the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX.
- Advanced (Turtlehead Peak Trail): A strenuous 4.6-mile trek that gains nearly 2,000 feet in elevation. The trail can be rugged and hard to follow at times, but the 360-degree panoramic view from the summit is absolutely worth the effort for experienced hikers.
Essential Gear and Safety for Red Rock
The desert is unforgiving, so proper preparation is non-negotiable. Don’t be the person who needs rescuing because they only brought a small plastic water bottle.
Your daypack should always contain a hydration reservoir, like a CamelBak Crux 3L, filled completely. Add electrolyte packets to your water. Pack high-energy snacks, a sun hat, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit. Finally, tell someone your hiking plan and when you expect to return.
Valley of Fire State Park: Explore a Martian Landscape
About an hour northeast of Las Vegas lies Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada’s oldest and largest state park. It’s famous for its brilliant Aztec Sandstone formations, which appear to be on fire when reflecting the sun’s rays—especially at sunrise and sunset.
This is a photographer’s dream and a geology lover’s paradise. The park is open year-round, but we strongly advise against hiking here in the summer. The heat can be dangerously intense, making this a prime destination for the cooler months from October to April. This is a crucial part of any things to do in or around las vegas guide.
Top Sights and Photo Opportunities
Driving through the park is an adventure in itself, but getting out of your vehicle is where the magic happens. Here are a few spots you can’t miss.
- The Fire Wave: This iconic, short 1.5-mile hike leads you to a stunning sandstone formation with flowing, candy-striped colors. Go in the late afternoon for the softest light and best photos.
- White Domes Loop: A 1.1-mile loop trail that takes you through a dramatic landscape, including a cool, narrow slot canyon. It’s a great way to experience a variety of the park’s terrain in a short amount of time.
- Atlatl Rock: See ancient petroglyphs up close by climbing a short metal staircase. It’s an easily accessible window into the region’s past inhabitants.
Planning Your Visit: What to Know Before You Go
There is an entrance fee per vehicle, so have cash or a card ready. Cell service is virtually non-existent in most of the park. This is why you must know how to things to do in or around las vegas safely: download your maps for offline use on an app like Gaia GPS before you leave home.
The visitor center is an excellent resource for current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and wildlife sightings. Stop there first to get oriented and fill up your water bottles.
Lake Mead & The Colorado River: Your Desert Oasis
When the desert heat gets intense, the best place to be is on the water. The Lake Mead National Recreation Area, which includes both Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, offers a massive aquatic playground for boating, fishing, swimming, and—our favorite—paddling.
The stark contrast of the deep blue water against the rugged desert mountains is a sight to behold. It’s a perfect way to experience the Mojave from a completely different perspective.
Kayaking the Black Canyon Water Trail
For a truly unforgettable adventure, book a guided kayak tour down the Colorado River from the base of the Hoover Dam. You’ll paddle through the majestic Black Canyon, stopping at saunas, hot springs, and the famous Emerald Cave.
Due to security, you can’t launch your own craft from the dam. You must go with a permitted outfitter, but it’s well worth it for the access and expertise. This is one of the most unique adventures you can have near the city.
Boating and Beach Time at Lake Mead
If a more relaxed day is your goal, head to one of Lake Mead’s marinas to rent a boat or find a spot at Boulder Beach to swim and relax. It’s a great way to cool off and enjoy the scenery without a strenuous hike.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Things To Do in or Around Las Vegas
As outdoor enthusiasts, it’s our responsibility to protect the places we love. The desert ecosystem is incredibly fragile, and our actions have a direct impact. Following eco-friendly things to do in or around las vegas is not just a suggestion; it’s a necessity.
Practice Leave No Trace Principles
The seven Leave No Trace principles are the gold standard for outdoor ethics. The most important one in the desert is “Pack It In, Pack It Out.” This includes everything from food wrappers to fruit peels. Nothing should be left behind.
Stay on designated trails to avoid trampling delicate cryptobiotic soil, a living crust that prevents erosion and is crucial to the desert ecosystem. This simple action is one of the most impactful sustainable things to do in or around las vegas.
Responsible Wildlife Viewing
You might be lucky enough to spot desert bighorn sheep, a desert tortoise, or a coyote. Always observe from a distance. Never feed wildlife, as it harms their health, alters natural behaviors, and can make them aggressive. Use binoculars or a zoom lens for a closer look.
Overcoming Common Problems: Your Desert Survival Cheat Sheet
Adventure comes with inherent risks, but being prepared can mitigate most of them. Addressing the common problems with things to do in or around las vegas head-on is the key to a safe and enjoyable trip.
Beating the Heat
Dehydration and heatstroke are the biggest threats. Start hydrating the day before your hike. While hiking, sip water continuously—don’t wait until you feel thirsty. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or develop a headache, find shade immediately, rest, and hydrate. If symptoms worsen, it’s a medical emergency.
Navigating and Staying Found
Never rely solely on your phone’s GPS. Download offline maps and consider carrying a satellite messenger like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 for emergencies, especially if you’re exploring solo or heading into remote backcountry areas. A physical map and compass are lightweight, reliable backups.
Flash Flood Awareness
Even on a sunny day, a storm miles away can send a wall of water rushing down a canyon. Before entering any slot canyon or dry wash (known as an arroyo), check the weather forecast for the entire region, not just your immediate location. If rain is in the forecast, stay on high ground.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Adventures Near Las Vegas
What is the best time of year to hike near Las Vegas?
The best seasons are fall, winter, and spring (October through May). The weather is cooler and much safer for strenuous activity. Summer hiking is possible but should be done only at higher elevations (like Mount Charleston) or very early in the morning, and with extreme caution.
Do I need a special vehicle to access these places?
For Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and the main areas of Lake Mead, a standard passenger car is perfectly fine. All major roads are paved. A high-clearance or 4×4 vehicle is only needed if you plan to explore more remote, unpaved backcountry roads.
How much water should I really bring for a desert hike?
A standard rule is to carry at least one liter of water for every two hours of hiking. We recommend erring on the side of caution and bringing more. For a half-day hike, a 3-liter hydration bladder is a great baseline. It’s always better to have leftover water at the end of the day than to run out.
Are there any dangerous animals I should watch out for?
Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and black widow spiders are present in the Mojave Desert. However, they are not aggressive and will avoid humans if possible. Watch where you step and place your hands, especially around rocks and bushes. Never hike with headphones in so you can hear your surroundings.
Las Vegas is more than just a city—it’s a world-class basecamp for some of the most spectacular outdoor adventures in the American Southwest. The true jackpot isn’t found at a slot machine; it’s waiting for you at the top of a red rock summit or in the quiet solitude of a desert canyon.
So next time you’re planning a trip, pack your hiking boots alongside your evening wear. Use this guide to explore with confidence, respect the delicate environment, and discover the wild heart of the desert.
Stay prepared, explore responsibly, and enjoy the adventure.
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