Here’s The Perfect Weekend Itinerary If You Love Exploring Nevada’s Waterfalls

Everyone loves seeing a beautiful waterfall and it's a particular thrill to see one up close when you live in such an arid state like Nevada. However, if you are tired of asking Dr. Google about our state's lovely falls, we've designed a road trip where you can see some lovely seasonal waterfalls in even the driest parts of Nevada! Pack up the car and let's go view some of the best waterfalls in Nevada.

This trip covers 842 miles with a total driving time of 14 hours and 21 minutes.

You can click on the image credit link to access the actual Google Map.

Our first stop will be the falls in Lamoille Canyon, of which there are several in both Lamoille and Thomas Canyons.

This beautiful area is located about 30 miles from the town of Elko and the hike to the top of Thomas Canyon is an easy 2.5 miles. Thomas Canyon Campground is also a nice place to spend the night before or after you've visited the trail.From Lamoille, we head out to Reno to the Hunter Creek Waterfall Trail/Michael Thompson Trailhead. The hike is about six miles out and back and is rated moderate. The trail tends to be slippery in some parts, especially if it has recently stormed, so wear good sturdy shoes. The trailhead is at the end of Woodchuck Circle and you can actually find it by simply entering Hunter Creek Waterfall Trail in Google Maps.

Next up is the gorgeous Kings Canyon Waterfall in Carson City.

The trailhead is located at 4450 Kings Canyon Road. This is a very easy, family-friendly trail and the waterfall can be seen in all seasons. It is one of the best waterfall hikes in Nevada.

Now, we're going to head down to the Las Vegas area for the rest of our waterfalls. The first is Big Falls in Mount Charleston.

The Big Falls Trail is located in the Mount Charleston trail system and the hike is approximately miles. It's a difficult trail because there is a lot of rock and boulder hopping but the falls themselves are worth the work. The trail is located in Kyle Canyon past the Spring Mountains Visitor Center. Park in the parking lot for the Mary Jane Falls Trailhead and follow that trail until you hit the first set of switchbacks (there are several) and take the road off the trail.

The Mary Jane Falls is the other well-known waterfall in the Mount Charleston area.

Once you've visited Big Falls, head back to the Mary Jane Falls Trail and continue following the switchbacks, until you reach the falls. The total trail is about 2.5 miles out and back and overall, it's not a hard trail if you're in good physical condition. In addition to the waterfall, there is also a small cave. The waterfall tends to be seasonal so spring is the best time to visit, but the views are still worth it even if there's no water.

Our next collection of waterfalls is located a bit south of Mount Charleston in the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area on First Creek Trail.

Entering Red Rock requires a small day-use fee per vehicle. The park is located off of SR 159/West Charleston Boulevard, which you take west leaving Las Vegas until you reach the park and visitor center. Since several of our waterfalls will be in Red Rock, download the handy hiking map. The First Creek Trail is about 3.5 miles and is a good match for any level of hiking skill. The waterfall is small and seasonal, although the pool is usually there all year long. This is definitely one of the best Nevada waterfalls!

Ice Box Canyon is a 2-1/2 mile loop trail that has a river as well as a small seasonal waterfall.

This trail is more suited for intermediate to experienced hikers because there's a lot of rock scrambling, so good hiking shoes and a hiking pole are recommended.

Finally, the Lost Creek Grotto Trail is a nice, short, family-friendly hike with a seasonal waterfall and lovely riparian habitat.

The hike is also a lovely spot for a picnic and the trailhead begins at the Willow Springs Picnic Area. The hike is about 0.75 miles and is an out-and-back trail. You are also likely to see burros in this area, or at least hear them in the distance, along with many other varied desert wildlife.

Our last two waterfalls may not be "natural" but they're definitely worth a visit while you're in the Las Vegas area. First is the waterfall at Aliante Nature Discovery Park.

This fantastic park is located in North Las Vegas and has a half-mile walking trail good for walking, hiking, jogging, and dog walking. There's a lovely lake with ducks and geese and the man-made waterfall is a peaceful sight. The park has a fun children's playground as well so this is a nice spot to bring the kids and have a picnic and relax.

Being that you're in Vegas, it's time to end your trip with an entertainment spectacle at the Mystic Falls Park in Sam's Town Casino.

Mystic Falls Park is an indoor park with a man-made waterfall, fountains, music, and animatronic animals, accompanied by, of course, lasers! This free show is definitely a bit on the corny side, but lots of fun and the kids will love it. It's particularly fun at Christmas when all the holiday lights add an extra dimension to the show. The Sunset Stampede Laser Light Show happens every day and is worth checking out!

What are your favorite falls in Nevada? Do you have a favorite waterfall hike in the state? Share your thoughts with us in the comments and don't forget to include some of your favorite Nevada waterfall photos as well!