Day Trippin’ — Hiking and Enjoying Nature Near Las Vegas

The glitz and glamor of Las Vegas keeps visitors coming back time after time for fun and entertainment. If you get tired of gambling, top-rated dining, shopping, and entertainment, taking in the sites on the strip, and experiencing old Vegas traditions like light shows on Fremont Street, Las Vegas gives travelers plenty of other things to do. 

But this doesn’t really begin to highlight not only the quantity of available activity options but also the diversity and range of things to do. Within a couple of hours of Sin City, you’ll find some of the most heavenly and scenic places in all the world. Here are just a few of the beautiful natural areas and day-trip destinations near Vegas:

Beautiful Hiking Destinations Near Las Vegas

• Red Rock Canyon – Only a 30-minute drive west of the Strip lies Red Rock Canyon, a technicolor natural conservation area composed of sandstone bluffs, seasonal waterfall oases, and desert hiking trails that wind past prime wildlife watching areas. To see everything up close, climb on a bicycle to tour the park’s memorable 13-mile scenic drive, just bring plenty of water! The Visitor Center offers information about recreation opportunities.

 

• Valley of Fire – For classic south-western desert scenery just like in Hollywood westerns, drive an hour north-east of the Strip to Valley of Fire state park. Bizarre rock formations with memorable names such as White Domes, Arch Rock, and the Mouse’s Tank are scattered across the desert landscape. If you look closely, some rocks are inscribed with ancient Native American petroglyphs. Early morning and late afternoon are the most magical times to hike (especially with the free guide services of a park ranger) or to photograph the all-natural landscape.

 

• Grand Canyon – If you are only going to do one day trip from Las Vegas, a trip to the Grand Canyon is a must, especially if you have never seen this natural wonder. The closest area to visit if you are driving is the Grand Canyon Skywalk at Eagle Point, which is less than 2.5 hours from Las Vegas. The more famous area is the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, a little over four hours away. Here, you’ll find the main national park visitor center, a beautiful drive and walkway along the rim of the canyon, multiple lookouts, hiking trails, and several key attractions.

 

How to Relax after a day of Hiking

These really are just a few of the myriad nature options available for visitors to the Las Vegas area. After taking a day trip for some hiking, you’ll definitely have an appetite. For more natural delights, with preservative and additive-free food, visit either of our Paymon’s Mediterranean Café and Lounge locations to slake your thirst, satisfy your hunger, and converse about the fabulous adventure you just had!