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6 Places to Experience Nature in Las Vegas
1. Clark County Wetlands Park
We might be living in the desert, but you can still spend time by the water. Clark County Wetlands Park is a real sight to behold. Get lost in the trails deep in the greenery but keep your ears open for the sound of gently trickling water. You’re going to forget that you’re even in Las Vegas.
Remember, too, that you’re not alone in your exploration. The bird-watching opportunities are unparalleled and expect to see colorful butterflies floating about. You might also run into rabbits, turtles, frogs, and — careful! — even a coyote or two.
If you need to get away from the bright lights and hustle and bustle of the city, this is the place to be. Take your time making your way through its 2,900 acres along the Las Vegas Wash.
In addition, there’s a 210-acre nature preserve, a nature center for the kids with tons of interactive fun, and multiple trailheads, not to mention countless photo opportunities.
The Wetlands Park trails are open daily from dawn to dusk and have no fee.
2. Red Rock
If you want to see nature in Las Vegas, there’s no better place to do it than Red Rock. Whether you’re looking to take a relaxing drive, go for a leisurely walk, or engage in a more intense hike, they’ve got a trail for you. Red Rock is especially famous for Calico Tanks, but we try not to pick favorites.
And the views! Let’s talk about the views. They can’t be beaten.
There are 26 hikes and trails to choose from, along with a one-way, 13-mile scenic drive. All in all, we’re looking at 195,819 acres contained within the Mojave Desert.
While the canyon gets its name from the literal color of the rocks, rest assured that on certain trails, you’ll encounter plenty of greenery and serene washes. Grab a friend and layer on the sunblock. You’re in for an unforgettable day.
3. Mt. Charleston
It wouldn’t be right to mention Red Rock without including Mt. Charleston, too. Mt. Charleston is much more lush. Just be sure to bring a jacket — the hire you head up, the chillier it gets.
Mt. Charleston holds more than 60 miles of maintained trails, most of which begin at over 6,000 feet in elevation. The tops of certain trails end at just under 12,000 feet in elevation, meaning that you’re in for one heck of a hike. It’s especially gorgeous in the winter, although note that you should be mindful of fluctuating weather conditions.
Mt. Charleston is one of the go-tos for people looking to find nature in Las Vegas. You shouldn’t miss it.
4. Lee Canyon
Escape from the Las Vegas you’ve come to know and make your way to Lee Canyon. Summer activities include scenic chair rides, hiking, and disc golf.
However, Lee Canyon is perhaps better known for its winter activities, and this is where Las Vegans go to get a slice of something completely different. The self-proclaimed “Coolest Place in Vegas” is home to 445 acres of terrain, 860 vertical feet of lifts, 1,919 vertical feet of hiking, 24 snow trails, three lifts, and even an area for tubing.
It’s an hour-long drive, max, from the heart of the city, but you’re going to feel like you’ve been transported to another state entirely.
There are absolutely opportunities to escape the scorching heat, even in Las Vegas. Don’t forget your snow gloves. You’re going to need them.
5. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
When people think of Las Vegas, they don’t necessarily think of lakes. But we’ve got Lake Mead, and it’s a real dream come true in this dusty old desert of ours.
Lake Mead is America’s first (and largest) national recreation area, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, and cycling. And don’t worry about running out of nature to explore: You’ve got 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, valleys, and crystal blue lakes to cover. If you see visitors walking around in scuba gear, your eyes don’t deceive you. Lake Mead was ranked one of the best freshwater lakes in the country for scuba diving.
Oh, and a view of Hoover Dam — we wouldn’t want to leave that out.
Pictures really don’t do it justice.
Fun fact: Although Lake Mead wasn’t built by nature, its water supply indeed comes from the earth. Every year, when the Rocky Mountains throughout Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah have their snowmelt, the water flows through the 1,450-mile-long Colorado River and ends up in Lake Mead.
6. Floyd Lamb State Park
Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs is kind of like stepping into a dream — lush greenery, multiple lakes, and an exquisite view of the mountains. Tule Springs Ranch is nestled safely within the park. Learn about the traditional working ranch and what Vegas life used to look like a long time ago.
floyd lamb state park at tule springs
If you’re in the mood for a casual stroll or a brisk jog, Floyd Lamb has plenty of paths. Want to reel in your next big catch? Grab your bait and go fishing. Take the kids to the picnic areas, or head to the trails perfect for mountain biking and BMX.
Floyd Lamb is 680 acres of quiet beauty.
While Las Vegas might not be known for nature, it’s still there, waiting for you to discover it. Put your party clothes away for a bit and lace up your outdoor shoes. See another side of Sin City.
Las Vegas has a lot to offer, and this is just barely scratching the surface. Looking to call the city home? Contact us today so that we can help.
