There are few things more exciting for a nature lover than spotting wildlife in the wild. Lucky for us Nevadans, this is a pretty common occurrence in our state! The Nature Discovery Trail in Boulder City is a great place to explore the desert and see native plants and animals, some of which are a lot bigger than you’d expect. This whimsical trail is actually loaded with giant statues of desert animals, and yes, it’s as strange as it sounds. Check it out:
The Nature Discovery Trail and Rock Garden is a true hidden gem in Boulder City, Nevada. Short and easily accessible, it offers an awesome place to spend the morning or afternoon soaking up the desert's natural beauty.
The Nature Discovery Trail is a great way for outdoor enthusiasts to get their nature fix without venturing too far from town. The park where the trail and rock garden can be found, Bootleg Canyon Park, is primarily known for its abundance of mountain bike trails. However, there's plenty for the casual hiker to see, as well.
The trail is short, running only about 1,800-feet, and it starts at the Bootleg Canyon Park parking lot. From here you can depart on the trail and witness some extraordinary views of both the city and natural scenery...but that's not all!
The trail is also home to an abundance of oversized animal statues. Yes, for real. One of the first statues you'll spot is of a giant jackrabbit, followed by a scorpion, roadrunner, and horned lizard.
The trail also incorporates plaques with information regarding the region's flora and fauna, making it a great destination for families with kids. You could easily spend a few hours learning and talking about life in the Nevada desert.
The trail makes a convenient end at a covered pavilion where you can stop, hydrate, and take it all in. And don't forget to take plenty of pictures—how else will you prove to people that you've seen a giant Gila monster?
The Nature Discovery Trail is the perfect spot for an easygoing and informative outing in the Nevada desert. It makes for a charming experience that most anyone can appreciate, so check it out soon and keep an eye out for these quirky statues!
