Vegas isn’t just neon and casinos, some of the best desert scenery in the Southwest is under an hour away. These three trails split between two parks: Valley of Fire, known for its red sandstone and slot canyons, and Red Rock Canyon, which trades color for elevation.
Good to know: the two parks charge separately and differently. Valley of Fire is $10/vehicle for Nevada plates, $15 for out-of-state (parks.nv.gov). Red Rock Canyon is $20/vehicle for a day pass, and if you’re visiting the Scenic Drive between October and May you’ll need a timed entry reservation booked in advance through recreation.gov (redrockcanyonlv.org). Also worth knowing: Valley of Fire closes several of its most popular trails, including Fire Wave and White Domes, from May 15 to September 30 because of extreme heat.
Rainbow Vista Trailhead
1.6 km out-and-back · 49 m elevation gain · Easy
Located in Valley of Fire, this short trail walks over sandy stone to a viewpoint overlooking Fire Canyon. It’s not the most scenic trail in the park, but the payoff-to-effort ratio is hard to beat, and it’s also a solid spot to park for the classic “road” photo everyone takes here. Go early, parking fills up by 11am on weekends.
Fire Wave, White Domes and Seven Wonders Loop
5.3 km loop · 136 m elevation gain · Moderate
This was my favorite trail in Valley of Fire, it packs three distinct sites into one hike. Go clockwise and you’ll hit the Fire Wave first, with its swirling red and white pattern, then wind through golden canyons before crossing the road into tighter red canyons. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep near White Domes. Remember this one closes seasonally for the summer heat.
White Rock Hills Loop
9.6 km loop · 270 m elevation gain · Moderate (rated difficult by the park)
Over in Red Rock Canyon, this one starts at the Willow Spring Picnic Area, about 10 minutes from the visitor center. Do it counter-clockwise to get the elevation out of the way early. The landscape shifts constantly, from desert cactus and rock to fir trees and red dirt, then a rocky path near the La Madre fork. It’s a quieter trail than most in the park, so bring your own water since there isn’t much shade or company along the way.
