Discover the Best Outdoor Adventures in Las Vegas: Where to Go and What to Do

Las Vegas isn’t just neon lights and poker chips—step outside, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of the Southwest’s most impressive outdoor playgrounds. From colorful canyons to snow-dusted peaks, this city is a paradise for anyone who loves to hike, bike, paddle, garden, or just hang out under the stars. Whether you’re a born explorer or just want to try something new, here’s your local guide to the best places and organizations to make the most out of the great outdoors in Las Vegas.

Marvel at Mountains, Valleys, and Desert Wonders

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Just west of town, Red Rock Canyon is a bucket list spot for anyone in Las Vegas. Famous for its dramatic red sandstone cliffs and winding scenic drive, Red Rock is packed with hiking trails for all levels. Try the Calico Tanks Trail for jaw-dropping views, or scramble up rocks on Kraft Mountain. Rock climbers, this is your playground, with routes drawing climbers from all over the country.

Mount Charleston & Lee Canyon

Want a break from the desert heat? Head up to Mount Charleston, where alpine forests and cool breezes make you forget you’re anywhere near Vegas. Hike trails like Mary Jane Falls or Fletcher Canyon, picnic beneath pine trees, or, in the winter, hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, or sledding at Lee Canyon resort.

Valley of Fire State Park

About an hour northeast, Valley of Fire lives up to its name with wild, bright red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs etched into canyon walls. This is a dream for photographers and hikers, with trails like Fire Wave and White Domes providing classic “Nevada” scenery. Bring plenty of water and a camera—every turn here is picture-perfect.

Water Escapes & Riverside Recreation

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Swap desert for water at Lake Mead, America’s first national recreation area. Rent a boat, paddle a kayak, go fishing, or just float and let the day drift by. Cyclists and hikers love the Historic Railroad Trail that follows the shore and tunnels. Along the way, you’ll see sweeping views of the lake, Hoover Dam, and maybe some desert wildlife.

Colorado River & Arizona Hot Springs

Near the Hoover Dam, the Colorado River serves up a whole new set of adventures. Paddle the calm waters or take a guided kayak trip to natural hot springs, waterfalls, and hidden coves. Arizona Hot Springs is a local secret: a short hike brings you to mineral pools surrounded by colorful canyons and soaring cliffs.

Wild Spaces & Urban Wildlife

Desert National Wildlife Refuge

Just north of the city, the Desert National Wildlife Refuge is the largest outside Alaska! Explore hiking and biking trails, go birdwatching, or head out into the rugged backcountry. The official visitor center is a great spot for families to learn about the region’s desert animals and unique habitat.

Clark County Wetlands Park

For something a little closer to home, Wetlands Park on the east side is an urban oasis. Walk or bike paved trails past ponds, marshes, and meadows bustling with native and migrating birds, turtles, and even the occasional beaver. Educational events and volunteer opportunities are always popping up, and it’s perfect for a family nature stroll.

Unique Urban Gardens and Preserves

Springs Preserve

The birthplace of Las Vegas, Springs Preserve is a green escape with botanical gardens, museum exhibits, animal habitats, and interactive nature trails all in the middle of town. Check out their gardening workshops and plant sales, or just wander the grounds and enjoy the shade. It’s the ultimate spot for learning about desert plants, sustainable living, and Vegas history.

Biking, Running & Group Adventures

Bootleg Canyon

If you’re a thrill-seeker, Bootleg Canyon in Boulder City is made for you. This mountain biker’s paradise has miles of rocky desert trails, from smooth beginner loops to advanced downhill runs. Take a shuttle up and race back down with the Las Vegas skyline winking in the distance.

Trails Everywhere

Las Vegas has been steadily growing its network of paved and dirt trails for decades. Try the River Mountains Loop Trail, which links Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, Boulder City, and Henderson. Hit the Summerlin or Bonanza trails for a run or a stroll with city, mountain, and open desert views.

Stargazing and Desert Evenings

The night sky over Las Vegas is reason enough to head outside after dark. Several local organizations host star parties, guided night hikes, and astronomy events where you can peer through telescopes at the rings of Saturn or the craters on the moon. Bring a red or UV flashlight, some snacks, and a sense of wonder.

Get Involved: Groups & Clubs You’ll Love

There’s no shortage of friendly organizations and clubs to help you get started or meet other outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few to follow:

• Black People Hike Las Vegas
  This group builds community on the trails and welcomes everyone, focusing on making the outdoors accessible and inclusive. Check them out on Instagram @blackpeoplehikelv.

• Las Vegas Astronomical Society
  Join stargazing parties, learn about the universe, or just enjoy Nevada’s dark skies together. Visit lvastronomy.org for events and info.

• Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW)
  Whether you’re into birdwatching, fishing, or simply learning about local wildlife, NDOW’s event lineup covers it all. Find them at ndow.org.

• Red Rock Audubon
  Regular bird walks, education programs, and events that are perfect for all bird-lovers. Register early for spots! Details at redrockaudubon.com.

• Pride Outside
  Monthly guided hikes and events led by the LGBTQIA+ community and open to all, exploring Mount Charleston, Lake Mead, Red Rock, and more. Learn more at lasvegaspride.org/las-vegas-pride-outside.

• Friends of Nevada Wilderness
  Volunteer to help keep Nevada’s wild spaces beautiful and accessible, from trail cleanups to habitat restoration. Details at nevadawilderness.org.

• Get Outdoors Nevada
  Community outings, education, and lots of hands-on stewardship. Every year, they offer dozens of events to get you outdoors and involved. Start exploring at getoutdoorsnevada.org.

• Southern Nevada Conservancy
  Stewards and educators for Red Rock Canyon and other public lands. Interpretive hikes, youth programs, and visitor info at southernnevadaconservancy.org.

Places to Explore, North to South

Wondering where to start? Here’s a roundup of local favorites in every direction:

North of Town:

• Desert National Wildlife Refuge — wildlife, hiking, and wild open spaces

• Ice Age Fossils State Park — explore fossils and desert history along easy trails

In Town:

• Springs Preserve — botanical gardens, museums, and family events

• Clark County Wetlands Park — lush habitat, birding, and educational programs

West of Town:

• Red Rock Canyon — iconic climbs, scenic drives, and classic desert hikes

• Spring Mountain Ranch State Park — historic ranch, easy trails, and summer theater

East & South:

• Lake Mead National Recreation Area — boating, hiking, biking, fishing, and more

• Avi Kwa Ame National Monument — night walks, guided hikes, and star-studded skies

Northwest:

• Mount Charleston & Lee Canyon — hiking, mountain biking, winter sports, and cool summer getaways

Northeast:

• Valley of Fire State Park — wild red sandstone, ancient petroglyphs, and endless photo ops

Quick Reference: Outdoor Activities Checklist

• Hiking and walking trails for every fitness level

• Mountain biking—from mellow paths to world-class downhill runs

• Water adventures: kayaking, boating, paddleboarding, and fishing

• Winter sports: skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snowshoeing

• Birdwatching and wildlife viewing—find the rare and the everyday

• Urban gardening, plant sales, and family nature programs

• Guided hikes, group meetups, and star parties

• Stewardship and volunteer events that give back to the land

Outdoor life in Las Vegas is about more than escaping the city—it’s about discovering something new with every adventure. Whether you like your outings solo, want to join a club, or are searching for the perfect spot for your next family trip, remember: some of the wildest, most beautiful places in Nevada are right in your backyard.

Looking to make Las Vegas your home base for adventure? Reach out to The Margolin Team to discover how you can live closer to the action—and start exploring everything the valley has to offer.