Posted in Nevada
May 12, 2017
11 Beautiful Nevada Hikes That Are Practically In Your Own Backyard
Just imagine a beautiful nature hike less than an hour from your home or office. While Nevada is known for its amazing mountains and state and national parks and all of the hiking opportunities there, few people realize how many spectacular and beautiful Nevada hikes are, literally, in their own backyards. Take a look at these 11 beautiful Nevada hikes that are closer than you think.
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Great views, local lore, and a history lesson await you on this flat, eight-mile hike. You can also ride your bike along this trail that takes you through five different railroad tunnels used to transport materials for construction of the Hoover Dam.
Okay all of you Genoans, here's a gorgeous hike right in your own backyard. Just under ten miles one way, you have the option of an easy Sunday three-mile stroll or an intense twenty-mile run.
Just on the edge of Las Vegas is Wetlands Park Nature Preserve. This series of easy trails measure between one-half and one mile. These trails are a bird watcher's paradise and enjoying the nature makes one forget he or she is right on the edge of a big city.
This ten-and-one-half mile long trail begins near Jacks Valley Elementary School. During the scenic hike, you will see high desert vegetation give way to a pine forest where deer, raptor, and eagle sightings are quite common, so bring your camera. This scenic trail ends near Tahoe Golf Club Drive and US Highway 50.
This popular and heavily trafficked 5.8-mile trail winds along Hunter Creek. The best part, however, is the stunning waterfall at the end of the trail. Be careful, however, as some parts of this hike can be rocky.
This five-and-one-half mile loop is an archaeological dream as the trail winds through rocks decorated with ancient petroglyphs. Add into the mix volcanic cliffs, washes, and a variety of flora and fauna and you have a fun and exhilarating hike just southeast of Las Vegas.
Frenchman Mountain is the highest peak in the Sunrise Mountain Range on the east border of Las Vegas. During this scenic 2.2-mile hike, you will climb a whopping 2,000 feet on, perhaps, one of the steepest hikes in Nevada. Once you reach the summit, you will be wowed by the amazing views of Lake Mead and the Las Vegas Valley. Because it is so steep, beginners should pay special attention to potential tripping hazards and make sure to bring adequate water.
Just 20 minutes from Heavenly Valley, Marlette Lake Trail is a 5.8-mile hike that provides stunning views of Lake Tahoe. This hike is also one of the rare ones in the state where your dog can legally be off his or her leash.
This dog-friendly backyard hike is a 4.1 mile trail near Henderson that provides several opportunities to view wildlife and the gorgeous scenery of the wash itself. This trail is fun for all ages and skill levels. Dogs are also welcome on this trail.
Smack dab in the middle of Reno near Rancho San Rafael is Evans Creek trailhead, a series of multiple loop trails so you will never have the same experience twice. Hiking trails range from just under one mile to nearly four miles, and the scenery is truly spectacular.
This moderately trafficked 4.4-mile hiking trail decorated with wildflowers is great for all ages and skill levels.
Have you enjoyed any of these beautiful Nevada hikes? Have I left your favorite off the list? Please comment below.
