8 Lovely Hikes In Nevada You Can Finish In Time For Lunch

Sometimes it's difficult to get out and do a hike because of work and life responsibilities, but luckily for you, we've rounded up some of the best hikes in Nevada that you can literally do during your lunch break! We kid you not; here are some short hikes within close proximity to metropolitan areas that you can finish in a morning and still have time to tackle the rest of your day! Keep reading to see some of the best hikes in Nevada.

1. Pittman Wash Trail (Henderson)

The entire trail is 4 miles and for the most part is a nicely paved road so it's a good option for joggers, runners and bikers as well. The trail runs through some residential neighborhood and along a wash so there are some pretty views along the way. In fact, its one of the most scenic hikes in the state. You can join the trail at either end of the trailhead. One is at the Arroyo Grande Sports Complex at 298 North Arroyo Grande Boulevard and the other starts on Pecos at the Pecos Legacy Park at 150 North Pecos Road.

2. Evans Creek Trailhead (Reno)

This lovely park has several trails of varying lengths from 2 to 3-1/2 miles and they're all fairly easy. It's a nice spot to view local wildlife and there are some pretty scenic bridges along the way. There's many trees, shade and a creek, as well as a duck pond at the other end of the park. You can find the trailhead at 2975 North Virginia Street.

3. River Mountain Loop Trail (Henderson)

The River Mountains Loop Trails is actually a large trail system that covers about 34 miles and winds through the Lake Mead area, Boulder city and some parts of Las Vegas. The trail is paved so it's great for walks, runs and cycling. Some areas of the trail are also ok for horseback riding so you may run into some horses along the way. There's a map of all the sections of the trail on the website. and there many points where you can join the trail. A good place to start is at the Railroad Pass Casino (2800 South Boulder Highway) where there's ample parking and the trailhead begins at the back of the parking lot. You can go for as long as you want and turn back. There's great views of the lake, Boulder City and also the Southern Nevada Railroad train as it passes by.

4. Sunset Park (Las Vegas)

This beautiful city park is a real gem right in the middle of Las Vegas. The park has some excellent paved trails for walkers, hikers, bikers and runners, as well as some packed dirt trails that go through the middle of the park and around a man-made lake. The trails altogether are 3.5 miles and they are usually well trafficked so you won't be by yourself if you go early in the morning. The park is located at 2601 East Sunset Road and is one of the great kid-friendly hikes around Nevada.

5. Dorostkar Park Nature Trail (Reno)

Dorostkar Park Nature Trail is located at off Aspen Glen Drive and Mayberry Drive. This small park sits along the Truckee River which gives the short 1-1/2 mile trail some nice views. It's a great place to take your dog out for a walk or run in the morning and enjoy the fresh air and lovely Reno nature.

6. Summerlin Cottonwood Canyon Loop Trail (Las Vegas)

This trail is part of the Cottonwood Canyon Park in the upscale Summerlin area of Las Vegas, which is tucked right behind a residential and business area. The trail and park features some pretty desert landscaping and nice shaded areas. The trail is a little under 2 miles. You can find the park at 915 Canyon Bluff Circle.

7. Silver Willow Trail(Reno)

Somersett is a planned community in Reno that has over 27 miles of trails, some of which are paved. The Silver Willow Trail is about 1-1/.2 miles long that passes by Morgan Creek. The trail is fairly easy but bring a hat and sunscreen and lots of water if you go in summer, which makes it a great option for an early morning hike when the sun isn't quite as strong. The trailhead is at 1820 Morgan Pointe Court.

8. Whitney Mesa Recreation Area (Henderson)

This trail is almost 3 miles long and has some terrific views of Henderson and Las Vegas. It's another good early morning choice in the summer as there isn;t a lot of shade along the way. The trail is located in the Whitney Mountain Recreation Area at 1550 West Galleria Drive.

Have you had a chance to enjoy any of these short hikes? What are your picks for the best hikes in Nevada? Share in the comments!