Nevada, the Sagebrush State, has a lot to offer apart from the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. If willing to explore the other side of Nevada, hiking on one of the many trails would be the best way to start. These trails take you past diverse scenery, providing ample opportunities to experience the sandy terrains of the desert landscape and the greenery of dense forests. Remember to apply sunscreen and carry a hat and enough water as the summer heat can give you a tough time hiking these trails.
Hunter Creek Trail is a well-traversed track near Reno that leads to a gorgeous 30-foot waterfall. The trail itself has a lot to offer, from the soothing sound of the creek flowing to the impressive forest and desert landscapes. Though it’s uphill all the way, it is not overly steep, making it accessible by hikers of all skill levels. Remember to pack your sunscreens and sufficient water as the trail is mainly exposed to heat. Also, it is best to leave your dogs home as the rugged terrain would not be suitable for their feet.
Length: About 6.4 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: April through October
Mount Rose, the highest peak in the Carson Range, lies within equidistance from the city of Reno and Lake Tahoe. It’s a perfect hike for experienced hikers as the views from the summit will surely leave one spellbound. Hiking along the steep and rocky trail is pretty challenging, although the surrounding scenic vistas of a cascading waterfall, blooming wildflowers, and pristine streams is sure to make you pause on the way to admire them. Once you reach the top, you can spend some time soaking in the views of Lake Tahoe, Washoe Valley, and Truckee Meadows. Hiking the complete loop trail requires about 6 hours.
Length: About 10.7 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Hard
Best time to visit: May to October
For an adventurous day near Genoa in northwestern Nevada, hiking this trail within Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park would be ideal. With multiple switchbacks and some steep points, it is a moderately challenging route not to be attempted by the faint of hearts. Apart from the stunning views of the canyon, you can also admire the scenic vistas of the Carson Valley and the blue water of Lake Tahoe all along the trail.
If you have enough time and wish to explore further, you could consider hiking a section of the adjoining Tahoe Rim Trail that runs about 170 miles around Lake Tahoe and the Carson ranges of California and Nevada. Besides, wandering around the charming small town of Genoa would also be an excellent option to spend the remaining time of the day.
Length: About 3.9 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: April to October
The combination of the desert landscape and the gorgeous Marlette Lake makes hiking this moderately strenuous trail worthwhile. Located within Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park, the trail starts at Spooner Lake and continues along a consistent inclination to give your leg muscles a good workout.
Hiking the trail would be perfect anytime between March and October. Visiting it in spring and summer will reward you with the views of attractive wildflowers and greenery. On the other hand, hiking it in the fall season will leave you spellbound with the yellow, red, and orange colors of birch and aspen trees. Also, this area is perfect for birding and wildlife viewing, as you might get the chance to spot scrub jay, mountain chickadee, beavers, marmots, and coyotes while hiking.
Remember to visit early as the parking lot fills as early as 10 am. There’s a parking fee of about $10 per vehicle here. Expect to spend about four to six hours hiking the entire trai.
Length: About 10.2 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: March to October
Located within Humboldt-Tolyabe National Forest near Reno, this trail is scenic and uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful time close to the Truckee River. It takes you to the stunning Hole-in-the-Wall, a natural wonder where a pristine stream enters the hole in the canyon wall. Hiking to reach it requires a steep climb initially, though the trail flattens out. You can enjoy cooling off in the river on your return.
Length: About 5 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: September to May
To enjoy a scenic hike in the state, treading along this trail at Humboldt National Forest would be ideal. The blooming wildflowers, towering pines, and aspens on the way are a sight to behold. Hiking it is not overly challenging as the trail starts from Smith Lake and is a steady climb with some steep points to the alpine lake that sits over 9000 feet. The view from the trail’s end of the valley is indeed incredible. On the way back, the hike’s a steep downhill.
Length: About 2.5 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: March to November
A 30-mile drive east of Las Vegas will lead you to the Turtlehead Peak Trail within Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Hiking the steep inclines with loose rocks make it a strenuous hike to head to the top of Turtlehead Mountain. However, your efforts will reward you with the breathtaking 360-degree views of the stunning Red Rock Canyon and the Las Vegas Valley. If planning to hike in the spring, you will also see many colorful wildflowers on the way. Do plan to go early as the trail has fewer shady areas. Expect to take about four hours to complete hiking the trail.
Length: About 4.6 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Hard
Best time to visit: All year round
Located in close proximity to Las Vegas within Red Rock Canyon, the Calico Tanks Trail is a short track that takes you past towering mountains and sandstone formations of various colors like red, orange, and yellow. Wear a good pair of hiking shoes to access the rocky and sand terrains. Just before reaching the trail’s end, where the Calico Tank sits, hikers need to scramble over a stretch of rocks.
The view of Calico Tanks, a small pool or tank encompassed by sandstone formations, is indeed spectacular. You will also be able to enjoy the awe-inspiring views of Las Vegas. Before returning to your vehicles, spend some time exploring the area and having fun scrambling the path beside the tank for additional scenic views.
Length: About 2.2 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: October to April
A favorite hike in Mount Charleston, Mary Jane Trail has its starting point at the base of Kyle Canyon. It traverses through the forests with towering aspens, ponderosa pines, and white fir, providing one with unending picturesque views and shady spots to take a break. The waterfall at the end is seasonal and appears impressive in spring when the snow melts. Also, it is no less spectacular in its frozen state during winter. Don’t miss hiking past the waterfall to see the stunning cave at the top. Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes as certain paths can be pretty wet and slippery to hike.
Length: About 3.9 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: April through December
The Valley of Fire State Park, located about an hour’s drive from Mesquite, offers many hiking trails. Among these, hiking the Fire Wave Trail would be excellent for families and novice hikers. The colorful rock formations provide an unusual experience and incredible photo opportunities all along the way. It appears even more stunning when the golden glow of the setting sun falls on the red sandstone formations with wavy patterns. Though the views are impressive throughout the year, consider hiking the trail in winter as the trail gets extremely hot in summer.
You could tread along the 1.1-mile White Domes Loop Trail to make it a whole day’s adventure, accessible by a short walk. Put on appropriate shoes to avoid the sand getting into your feet. If planning a night’s stay, you can head to the nearby Atlatl Rock Campground.
Length: About 1.5 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Easy
Best time to visit: All year long
Historic Railroad Trail, also known as Railroad Tunnel Trail, is a must-hike in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Accessible by hikers of all skill levels, the relatively flat trail traverses through five tunnels before descending to the Hoover Dam. All along the way, you can enjoy the splendid views of Lake Mead and red-colored sandstone formations. Do keep a note that the Lake Mead area requires a fee to access it. You will find the parking lot near Alan Bible Visitor Center, from where you can start your hike.
Length: About 8.2 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Easy
Best time to visit: All year round
The Black Mountain Trail is a part of the McCullough Mountain range that attracts many hiking enthusiasts for the sweeping views of Las Vegas. On a clear day, the distant views of Arizona and California are sure to delight you. As for the hike, it is not overly challenging for experienced hikers. The trail has a gradual incline with a steep scramble for the last half mile towards the summit. Put on a pair of sturdy hiking shoes, and be careful of the loose rocks while descending from the top.
Length: About 6.8 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Hard
Best time to visit: September to May
Hiking to the Gold Strike Hot Springs is a sought-after activity during the chilly weather. The refreshing pools of hot springs look inviting all along the way. Come prepared to do a lot of scrambling and boulder climbing with ropes to descend to the Colorado River and return using the same path. However, if you want to avoid rope climbing, you can enjoy a dip in the hot springs at the trail’s upper portion. While in the area, be cautious of rattlesnakes that find solace on the surrounding warm rocks. Summertime is not the best time to access the trail, and it usually remains close from mid-May through September due to excessive heat.
Length: About 6 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Hard
Best time to visit: October through March
One of the state’s highest peaks, Wheeler Peak sits at a height of over 13,000 feet. The trail leading to it takes you through a picturesque landscape with incredible views of the Great Basin. It also gives ample opportunities to appreciate the beautiful wildflowers. You might even encounter a mule deer or wild turkey on the way.
Considered one of the state’s most challenging hikes, Wheeler Peak Trail requires one to be physically fit to access it. The high altitude and the rocky terrain make it pretty difficult. However, once you reach the summit, the panoramic views will make you forget about your weariness.
Length: About 8.2 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Hard
Best time to visit: March to October
TOP PICKS
Best Waterfall Hikes: Mary Jane Falls Trail, Hunter Creek Trail
Best Mountain Hikes: Turtlehead Peak Trail, Mount Rose Trail, Black Mountain Trail
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