What to do in Las Vegas besides Casinos and Drinking Part 1: Hiking in Nevada
Written by Amelia Heimerman
Contrary to popular belief, there is more to Las Vegas than casinos. Las Vegas is a popular destination for conventions, work trips, and tourists looking for some fun. Although you may only see booze, showgirls, and slot machines, there are plenty of ways to incorporate movement into your Vegas vacation.
Hiking in Mount Charleston
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Las Vegas, NV
Nevada is spoiled by its beautiful mountains that adorn the Las Vegas valley. Mount Charleston is a Vegas favorite for skiing as well as scenic views and hikes. Mount Charleston is 50 minutes away from the Strip, but it feels as if you’re entering a completely different state! The weather is cooler and there are plenty of trails to explore that vary in length and difficulty. If you’re looking for something easy and fun, the Cathedral Rock Trail is rated to be easy and is only 2.8 miles. Bristlecone Loop is 6.3 miles and is a little more challenging. On the Go Mount Charleston website, you can find information on all the trails this beautiful site has to offer.
Hiking in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Looking for something closer? Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is another great hiking spot that is only 30 minutes outside of the strip. Red Rock boasts numerous trails of all lengths and skill levels. Red Rock is named after… red rocks! The colors, shapes, and size of these rocks are so unique and are starkly different from typical Las Vegas scenery. A few popular trails are the Turtlehead Peak trail which is 4.6 miles and quite difficult and Calico Hills trail which is easier and ranges from 2 to 6 miles depending on which path you take. Vist the Red Rock Canyon LV website to learn more about the available trails, their skill levels, their distances, and what sites you can see!
Hiking in Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is about 35 minutes from the Strip and is the complete opposite of the tan, desert-like appearance of Las Vegas. This spot boasts trees, grass of the most beautiful greens, and a small lake! In the summer months, the ranch puts on plays and musicals where the audience is free to bring their own blankets, lawn chairs, food, and drinks. The trails available at the park are shorter and less strenuous, the longest being the South Ash Grove Loop at 1.4 miles. This spot is perfect for a light-hearted daytime excursion. Check out a map of the park, its trails, and popular sites to visit.
I hope the suggestions above encourage you to venture out and explore the Las Vegas valley and its surrounding areas, but it is possible to meet your step goals by just staying on the Strip. Las Vegas Boulevard is home to plenty of beautifully decorated hotels that often connect to one another. By simply exploring hotel after hotel, you’re bound to hit 10,000 steps in no time at all. I would recommend checking out the conservatory in the Bellagio. This conservatory boasts hundreds of thousands of flowers arranged in ornate ways to adhere to a specific theme. If you’re looking to shop, you should visit the Forum Shops in Caesars Palace. This mall-like area boasts many of your favorite shops and is walking distance from anywhere along Las Vegas Boulevard. If you’re looking for a bit of thrill, check out the New York New York hotel’s roller coaster and arcade. Outside of the mentioned hotels, there are plenty of others to explore. Most of the hotels are within two miles of each other, making the Strip a great place to get your steps in!
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