Our state is always full of surprises! If you’re looking for a pleasant drive or hike this holiday season, consider the aptly named “Christmas Tree Pass” in southern Nevada. This drive features spectacular views of the mountain with an optional side trip hike for those who enjoy Native American history. It’s no wonder people call this the most festive scenic drive in Nevada.

Christmas Tree Pass is a 16-mile scenic drive near Laughlin, NV.
Pixtonian/TripAdvisor
The pass goes through the Newberry Mountains and has some incredibly scenic views of the Colorado River, the Mojave Desert, and nearby Arizona.
Christmas Tree Pass
Julia J/TripAdvisor
The road is gravel for the most part, although a few spots can be rough on a regular car. Having a high-clearance vehicle for the drive is recommended.
davidmP7608YO/TripAdvisor
Taking Christmas Pass can get you to the Grapevine Canyon trail, which is part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
sueme3/TripAdvisor
If you're driving the pass from the 163, you can reach Grapevine Canyon via an unmarked road about two miles in.
Grapevine Canyon is known for its petroglyphs and is listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places. Over 700 petroglyphs can be seen in the canyon and they are believed to have been made around 1100 to 1900 A.D.
Pinqylou/TripAdvisor

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There is even a small spring in Grapevine Canyon that is available most of the year.
Mark Pilkington/Flickr
The highest peak in the Newberry Mountains is Spirit Mountain, which can be seen rising above the canyon. Several local Native American tribes consider the mountain to be sacred and it's the first Native American land in Nevada to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Christmas Tree Pass
John Fowler/Flickr
But oddly enough, you won't find any Christmas trees here! The name of the pass comes from the juniper trees in the Newberry Mountains. A tradition grew around decorating the trees with Christmas decorations and the name eventually stuck.
tomq195/TripAdvisor
Many visitors will bring ornaments to hang on the trees as part of their hike. If you plan to do so, remember that many animals live in this area and avoid bringing items that might be hazardous for them. Please also remove the decorations as you leave.
Pixtonian/TripAdvisor
Lori M/TripAdvisor
Traffic through Christmas Tree Pass road tends to be light, so it's an excellent location for a picnic, particularly in spring and fall with moderate weather.
Rebecca T/TripAdvisor

Driving through Nevada is always stunning, but this journey takes the cake. Fortunately, this scenic drive isn’t just for the holidays! To get to the Christmas Tree Pass in Laughlin, you’ll take Highway 163 by Searchlight and look for the signs for the Christmas Tree Pass Road. While not well known, it’s well-marked!

Have you had a chance to visit Christmas Tree Pass in Nevada? What’s your favorite scenic drive in your area? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

For even more winter and Christmastime magic, check out some of our favorite winter day trips in the state. This cozy cabin would make the perfect base camp!

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More to Explore

Christmas Tree Pass

Elisa Regulski | November 04, 2022

What are the best Christmas towns in Nevada?

Want to celebrate the season? Nevada has plenty of places to choose from.

  • Genoa: First, head to the town of Genoa. Every year, residents flock to the tree lighting ceremony. Carols are sung and lights twinkle. There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit!
  • Carson City: This is another incredible Christmas town in Nevada. Visitors love the Silver & Snowflakes Festival of Lights. If you’re lucky, you might even spot Santa Claus!
  • Ely: You can’t forget about the charming town of Ely. This gorgeous place is home to the Nevada Northern Railway, which hosts a special Christmas-themed train ride every year. Drink hot cocoa and listen to classic Christmas stories. This event is sure to bring out your childlike wonder.
  • Fallon: You should also check out Fallon for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting. In addition to the lively spectacle, you’ll be greeted with tasty cookies and never-ending cheer.

 

For more ideas, read our full list of the best Christmas towns in Nevada. 

What are the best drive-thru lights shows in Nevada?

We love going to the Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway event every year – it’s one of the best drive-thru light shows in Nevada! In fact, CNN Travel named it one of the “Best Places to See Christmas Lights in the U.S,” and we couldn’t agree more. With 2.5 miles of whimsical lights, twinkling displays, and unique spectacle, this is one event you’ll want to return to year after year. Whether you’re young, or just young at heart, this event will ignite your Christmas cheer.

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Christmas Tree Pass, Nevada 89046, USA