Brilliant, sapphire-colored lakes, lush wetlands, and snow-capped peaks aren’t what most people picture when they think of Nevada. But our desert-rich state is so much more diverse than many travelers and adventurers realize! Fortunately, enjoying Nevada’s great outdoors doesn’t have to take a grueling climb, and many of our state’s best trails even offer the occasional respite from our the unrelenting sun. The Historic Railroad Trail near Boulder City, Nevada is an easy and unexpected hike that offers the perfect combination of scenery, history, and blissful shade – and all it takes is an easy, paved walk through the Boulder Basin area to reap the spectacular rewards.
You wouldn't think views like this could possibly come from an easy stroll through Southern Nevada… but they do!
The Historic Railroad Trail near Boulder City is a well-loved, family-friendly jaunt through decades of Nevada history. Here, a wide, flat trail follows the last remaining stretch of railbed left from the historic Hoover Dam Railroad.
You'll find the trail to be accessible for most strollers, wheelchairs, and even those with mobility issues. Bikes are allowed as well. The trailhead is just to the right of the Lake Mead Visitor Center.
Winding gracefully through the basin and along the water, this state treasure stretches nearly four miles from the Visitor Center all the way to the behemoth Hoover Dam.
Placards along the route share tidbits on rail history, Nevada's mining days, Lake Mead, and the construction of the Hoover Dam - and how they all tie together.
The construction of the dam in the 1930s was a monumental feat of engineering. Hundreds of tons of equipment was needed to make it happen. Gravel supplies, heavy machinery, and more were all transported by train along this same trail and through the historic tunnels you will be walking through - a total of 30 miles all the way to the dam site.
The Historic Railroad Trail is exposed to the elements for the most of the day, but the cool tunnels offer a refreshing break from the sun and weather.
These incredible structures are also fantastic engineering marvels themselves. Each tunnel is around 300 feet long and 25 feet in diameter. They're positively massive! But it's hard to appreciate the scope and size of these behemoths until you're standing inside one.
Note that bats do like to nest in these tunnels. As with all wildlife you may encounter, please do not touch, frighten, or otherwise disturb the animals.
Glittering views of Lake Mead along the way are particularly tempting in the warmer months. This 150,000-acre body of water is the largest in the state!
You'll also find benches along the route if you need to take a breather or a quick photo stop! The vibrant hues of the Muddy Mountains in the distance are an absolute delight.
Finally, the distant sight of the Hoover Dam is sure to be a welcome sight as you leave the final tunnel behind. This area is slightly more hilly and industrial, but definitely take some time to explore the paved trails that lead to the dam and behold the man-made spectacle up close! Many Nevadans have grown up with this monumental construction in our backyard, but never take the time to truly marvel at it.
While 14-ers aren’t the most iconic natural wonders here, stunning landscapes are still plentiful in our state. Nevada is full of hidden gems! Visit the NPS website for more info on this easy, historic hike in Nevada. We can’t wait to hear about your travels!
An important note about this trail: it should go without saying that the Silver State’s heat can be brutal, so when considering the best places to hike and explore in Nevada, time of day as well as the season is important to consider. Bringing your leashed four-legged friend along is sweet, but remember – as soon as the temperature climbs above 75 degrees, the ground is far too hot for your pup’s paws. Pack dog booties, plenty of extra water and sun protection, and remember to leave no trace. Hike responsibly, friends!
Looking for more historic goodness in the Nevada? Check out this historic hotel in Virginia City. Mark Twain has even stayed here!
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