5 Fun Day Trips To Take From Las Vegas (2024)
Want to know the best day trips from Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know!
Fun Day Trips To Take From Las Vegas
Las Vegas, the dazzling city of lights and non-stop entertainment, offers an array of attractions to its visitors.
However, beyond the glitz and glamour of the Strip are plenty of exciting day trip opportunities for nature fans.
For nature lovers looking to escape into the wilderness, keep reading for a look at five nature-filled day trips a stone’s throw away from Las Vegas.
1. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon is located only 20 miles west of the Las Vegas strip.
This National Conservation Area offers a stunning escape into the natural beauty of the Mojave Desert.
It is known for having majestic red sandstone formations and picture-perfect hiking trails, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Take a scenic drive along the 13-mile loop, stopping at various viewpoints to capture the breathtaking vistas with your camera.
For a more immersive experience, set out on one of the numerous hiking trails that cater to various skill levels, like the Calico Tanks or the Ice Box Canyon trail.
If you bring binoculars, it’s possible to see diverse wildlife including desert bighorn sheep and golden eagles.
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2. Valley of Fire State Park
Venture northeast of Las Vegas to discover the mesmerizing Valley of Fire State Park.
It’s a geological wonderland that boasts vibrant red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and unique rock sculptures.
Located 50 miles from the Las Vegas strip, it takes about an hour to reach the park’s entrance.
Valley of Fire’s name comes from the fiery red rocks that appear to be burning when hit by the sun’s rays.
Hike through Fire Canyon, Rainbow Vista, or White Domes to witness the brilliant colors and distinct rock formations up close.
You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped upon another planet as you explore this exotic terrain.
Don’t pass up the chance to witness ancient Native American petroglyphs stretching back thousands of years at Atlatl Rock.
There are plenty of other focal points in the park, including Elephant Rock, Arch Rock, and the Fire Wave.
If hiking and walking aren’t of interest, there are still plenty of activities for you to do here.
You can take a scenic drive or stop by the visitor center to walk through exhibits on the local wildlife and geology.
👉🏼 Click Here To Book Your Valley Of Fire State Park Hiking Tour Today!
3. Hoover Dam
A short 40-mile drive southeast of Las Vegas will lead you to one of America’s most iconic engineering marvels, the Hoover Dam.
Hoover Dam straddles the border between Nevada and Arizona.
This massive concrete arch-gravity dam spans the mighty Colorado River and forms the beautiful Lake Mead.
Take a guided tour inside the dam to learn about its history and impressive construction process.
👉🏼 Click Here To Book Your Hoover Dam Tour Today!
Marvel at the colossal turbines and generators, and gain insight into the dam’s role in providing electricity and water to the region.
After the tour, walk along the observation deck to enjoy panoramic views of the dam, Lake Mead, and the rugged surrounding landscape.
With any remaining time, you can rent watercrafts and head out on Lake Mead, or chill on one of the lake’s beaches.
4. Grand Canyon National Park
Set your sights on the Grand Canyon for a memorable day trip from Las Vegas.
This would be the furthest drive on the list at 4.5 hours but is a life-changing view for first-timers.
The South Rim, which is the most accessible part of the Grand Canyon, offers spectacular viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station.
Here you can witness the breathtaking expanse of the canyon’s layers and colors.
For a more adventurous experience, consider taking a helicopter or small plane tour that will provide a unique aerial perspective of this vast geological wonder.
👉🏼 Click Here To Book Your Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Today!
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy while admiring the breathtaking views from the Grand Canyon’s rim.
5. Death Valley National Park
Embark on a journey to the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States—Death Valley.
This diverse landscape is about a two-hour drive west of Las Vegas.
Death Valley comprises salt flats, sand dunes, and mesmerizingly colored canyons.
Witness the stunning vistas of Zabriskie Point, hike the unique Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and explore the vast Badwater Basin.
Badwater Basin sits at the lowest elevation point in North America.
Death Valley’s extreme temperatures make it a particularly unique experience, so be sure to visit during the cooler months to enjoy the park safely and comfortably.
Due to the extreme temperatures, it’s also a good idea to leave early in the morning and finish your park excursion by the hottest part of the day.
👉🏼 Click Here To Book Your Self Guided Audio Driving Tour Of Death Valley National Park Today!
Supplies to Bring On Your Day Trip From Las Vegas
Because you’ll be visiting rural areas, it’s critical to stock your car with essentials for the journey as well as emergency supplies.
The most important thing to bring is water.
Staying hydrated is crucial in the desert heat, so bring plenty of water with you.
Snacks like granola bars, bananas, and sandwiches will keep you energized.
Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Dressing appropriately for the weather, along with sturdy hiking shoes, is a must for exploring trails.
For navigation, have a reliable map or GPS device at hand, allowing you to wander confidently without losing your way.
Safety is important in remote locations, so pack a basic first aid kit, insect repellent, and any personal medications you need.
Make sure your backpack is sturdy and can hold whatever you plan on bringing.
Everyone should be able to enjoy nature, but we also need to protect it.
Remove all of your trash and leave the areas as you found them.
In case of emergencies, carry a portable phone charger and have a list of emergency contacts readily available.
As the weather can be unpredictable, tuck a lightweight windbreaker or poncho into your backpack.
Lastly, don’t forget your wallet and any necessary permits required for entry.
Conclusion: Fun Day Trips To Take From Las Vegas
Las Vegas is not only a hub of entertainment but also an ideal base for exploring the captivating natural wonders that surround the city.
Each day trip offers a new and amazing encounter, from the brilliant colors of Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire State Park to the engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam and the grandeur of the Grand Canyon and Death Valley.
Take some time the next time you’re in Las Vegas to explore some of the natural beauty in the surrounding areas.
These five day adventures will undoubtedly leave you with lifelong memories and a greater respect for the American Southwest’s majesty.
