Vegas is known for gambling and creating artificial environments, mostly meant to extract your money. However, there is much to do beyond the blackjack table. Two places I love to visit when in Vegas are Red Rock and the Valley of Fire. Both are natural treasures worth seeing.
First, you’ll need a car. Most resorts have rentals available, though usually they partner with a specific brand. You have no choice but to use the company on-site. The airport has every car rental company in existence, and there’s a bus which ferries you, luggage and all, to the rental center. Renting a car in Vegas is necessary if planning to leave the The Strip. Most places have ample parking, unless it’s Friday or Saturday night. Then you might have to orbit for a bit.
Second, pack some essentials. Camera, snacks, and water are good to have. After all, this is the desert and these specific areas have few amenities. Bug repellant and sunscreen are also important. In late March expect the weather to be pleasant during the day and chilly at night. Layers! Also, sturdy shoes if you plan on any hiking as the trails are rugged.
Red Rock is close to The Strip. It’s about a 20 minute ride west of the city. Valley of Fire is further out along I-15. It’ll take about an hour.
Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area
Red Rock is located close to The Strip. After paying a small entry fee, you drive on a paved road around the area. A map is included. There are several stops along the way, which have parking lots, trails, and sometimes primitive bathrooms. It’s a lot like the Blue Ridge Parkway in the South, but with more frequent “overlooks.” Here, though, you’ll be looking up at the scenery. The topography is stunning, particularly during sunset when the colors really pop in the amber light. Most people stop at the first few areas and they are usually overflowing. Worry not. Overlooks further down are often less populated. Each stop has its own character and view — a personality almost — and I recommend picking a few that are sparsely populated and spending some time admiring the desert.
The area is also crisscrossed with numerous trails. Use the provided maps as guides or Trails.com on your smart phone (just download the maps prior to departure as cell service can be intermittent). Getting out of the car and into the bush is a wonderful way to experience this wild environment. Though the trail grades are manageable by novice hikers, still be careful and hike smartly.
Valley of Fire State Park
The Valley of Fire is similar to Red Rock, complete with entrance fee, map, and scenic road with points of interest. It’s further away, roughly an hour on I-15. The number of stops and variety of scenery, however, is much greater here. If you have the time, I recommend this one highly. It’s a spectacular drive to the park and also within the park. Much of the area “a few” years ago was underwater, and some of the rock formations are shaped by ancient flows. Just stunning.
Rather than one circular road, the park has a main road with off-shoots, all worth exploring. There are no amenities, beside bathrooms and picnic areas, so pack food and water. There are trails here also worth exploring. The state park is larger than Red Rock, so budget more time to enjoy this incredible area.
Las Vegas isn’t considered a natural destination even though many natural wonders abound in the harsh landscape. The Grand Canyon is close, and many bus tours depart from Las Vegas. Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park are very well known but quite far. Closer in are Mount Charleston and Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, which will appeal to the outdoorsy types.
So, yes, come for the reunion and to help support the arts and Leesville. But, also, make sure to go beyond the casinos and see the natural beauty of the area.