Must-Try Treks in and Near Las Vegas for Every Hiker

When most people think of Las Vegas, they imagine bright lights and big parties, but did you know there are amazing hiking trails here too? These treks in and near Las Vegas are perfect if you want a break from the busy and bustling city life of Vegas. Just a short drive away, you can find quiet trails, red rocks and beautiful desert views plus walk through colorful canyons, climb small mountains, or just take an easy trail to enjoy fresh air and peace.  It’s a great way to clear your mind and see or connect with nature up close. These places are great for fresh air and catching pretty sunsets while enjoying a little adventure with friends or family. Treks in and near Las Vegas are good for all kinds of hikers, whether you are a beginner or love long, tough trails.

In this blog, we’ve covered all the top spots for treks in and near Las Vegas and by the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to pick your trail and commence on your Vegas adventure with your squad on your next visit.

 

For more attractions and must-visit spots, check out our complete Las Vegas Travel Guide

 

Fire Wave and Seven Wonders Loop

Fire Wave and Seven Wonders Loop is one of those treks in and near Las Vegas that feels like stepping onto another planet. This 1.9-mile loop sits inside Valley of Fire State Park, about an hour’s drive from the city. You’ll walk through swirling red and white sandstone that looks painted by nature itself. Along the way, you can spot dramatic rock formations like the Fire Wave, which glows at sunrise and sunset. It’s perfect if you’re up for moderate adventure without anything too tough and is great for families with older kids. You can spot and click pictures of rainbow-colored rocks and hidden arches around every corner. Since there are no restaurants inside the park, it's best to pack some snacks and plenty of water. If you have time, swing by the nearby Elephant Rock or drive the scenic Mouse’s Tank Road. This is one of the treks in and near Las Vegas where you’ll truly see why Nevada’s desert landscapes are so famous.

 

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White Domes Loop

Next is the White Domes Loop, which is just perfect for anyone searching for scenic yet manageable treks in and near Las Vegas as this loop is an easy and short but stunning trek, perfect for families and beginners. This 1.1-mile trail in Valley of Fire State Park has many scenic spots to trek by, like colorful slot canyons, scattered movie ruins, and bright sandstone domes glowing in shades of pink and orange. Kids will love squeezing through the narrow canyon walls, and you’ll also find plenty of shady spots for quick breaks. After the trek, you can also check out the nearby Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s geology too. The trail is well-marked, but it is recommended to wear good shoes as the sand can get soft in places, and remember to carry food and water as you won’t find cafes inside the park.  

 

First Creek Trail

First Creek Trail is one of the friendliest treks in and near Las Vegas, offering an easy 3.6-mile out-and-back adventure just 25 miles from downtown. This trail is perfect if you want a quick nature escape without too much driving. You’ll walk through a desert landscape with wide open views and end up at a hidden little waterfall with cottonwood trees and other shade providing trees. The trail is mostly flat, making it great for kids, pets, and casual hikers. Make sure to keep an eye out for desert tortoises or bighorn sheep along the way and pack water and some snacks because there’s no shade for long stretches. After you are done with the hike, you can visit the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center or grab a bite in nearby Summerlin too for a quick meal. 

 

Petroglyph Canyon via Mouse’s Tank Trail

Next on the list is Petroglyph Canyon, which is one of the most fascinating treks in and near Las Vegas. This trail is really unique as it blends an easy hike with local history featuring ancient petroglyphs carved on stone, 50 miles from downtown Las Vegas. This 1.4-mile out-and-back trail is located in Valley of Fire State Park and is super beginner-friendly and even families with young kids can enjoy it. As you stroll through the canyon, you will notice and spot hundreds of petroglyphs left by Native Americans centuries ago. The nearby Mouse’s Tank, a natural water basin, is a great stop for clicking photos too. The trail itself is mostly sandy and flat, so comfortable shoes are enough and it's recommended to pack snacks since there’s no food nearby. 

 

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Moderate Treks in and near Las vegas

Calico Tanks Trail

Calico Tanks Trail is one of the most rewarding treks in and near Las Vegas if you want a short adventure with big payoffs. This 2.2-mile out-and-back trail sits inside Red Rock Canyon and offers everything from colorful sandstone formations to hidden water pockets located in the desert. The hike is moderately tough as there will be big rocks along the way, so wear good shoes and bring plenty of water. Kids with some hiking experience can enjoy it too. Along the way, you’ll see unique rock layers in red, orange, and cream, perfect for stopping by to take photos. The main highlight of the trail is the ‘tank’, which is a natural water basin that sometimes holds rainwater, attracting birds and other wildlife, which is definitely worth the trek. Once you reach the end, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Las Vegas Valley, a reminder of how close yet far you are from the city’s noise.

 

Willow Springs Loop

Willow Creek Trail, often called Willow Springs Loop by locals, is a scenic moderate trail that’s among the more underrated treks in and near Las Vegas. It is located inside Red Rock Canyon, and this trail lets you wander through a beautiful mix of groves, rugged red rocks, and even a seasonal creek if you visit after rain. It’s about 1.5 to 3 miles depending on which side paths you explore, making it flexible for both families and casual hikers. Along the trail, you might spot ancient pictographs on the canyon walls too and there are also some picnic spots near the trailhead, so you can plan with your group and pack lunch, enjoying the fresh desert air. In spring, you’ll see wildflowers adding pops of color and more beauty to the dusty trail. This is one of the treks in and near Las Vegas that’s not too crowded, giving you space to explore at your own pace and soak up Red Rock’s beauty.

 

Challenging Treks in and near Las vegas

Turtlehead Peak Trail

Next up is Turtlehead Peak Trail, which is one of the tougher treks in and near Las Vegas, but the view from the top is worth every step. This 5-mile out-and-back trail in Red Rock Canyon is rated strenuous as you’ll tackle rocky terrains, steep inclines, loose rocks, and a bit of boulder scrambling, so sturdy shoes and good fitness are an absolute must. From the trailhead at Sandstone Quarry, you’ll pass huge red boulders and rock formations that look like giant turtle shells, where the peak gets its name from. As you climb higher, the trail can get confusing in parts and after about halfway up, you’ll get glimpses of Calico Hills, the canyon floor, as well as the bright city skyline far behind you. The final push to the summit is steep but immensely rewarding, with 360-degree views over rugged cliffs, the Red Rock escarpment, and sometimes even Mount Charleston on clear days. Remember to take your time coming down, as the loose rock makes it trickier than going up. This isn’t the best trail for kids or first-time hikers, but experienced trekkers will love the sense of achievement. It is also advised to carry your own snacks, water, and sun protection because there’s no shade on this adventure and this trek will definitely challenge and push your limits.

 

Mary Jane Falls Trail

Lastly, Mary Jane Falls Trail is literally one of the coolest treks in and near Las Vegas, offering a refreshing break from the desert heat. It is located 39 miles from downtown in the Spring Mountains, and is basically a 5-mile out-and-back trail that climbs steadily through shady pine forests before rewarding you with a hidden waterfall cascading down a limestone cliff. You’ll start the hike at Kyle Canyon and climb a steady incline with a mix of packed dirt paths and rocky switchbacks. The trail is moderate but does have some uphill stretches and stone steps, so make sure to take your time and bring plenty of water. It’s very popular in summer when people flock here to enjoy cooler temps and the sight of the falls. Dogs love this trail too, and you’ll often see families with kids enjoying a picnic by the water.

 Conclusion 

In conclusion, exploring these treks in and near Las Vegas is the perfect way to see a different side of the city. It’s the perfect way to workout and discover views, all just a short drive away from the neon lights and noisy crowds.

 

For more attractions and must-visit spots, check out our complete Las Vegas Travel Guide