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| Valley of Fire, Mt. Charleston & Red Rock Canyon |
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VALLEY OF FIRE
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Six miles from Lake Mead and an easy 55-mile drive from Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire State Park is Nevada's oldest and biggest state park. The park takes its name from fiery sandstone formations, which were formed by shifting sand dunes years ago. The geology here is similar to Red Rock, but the area also offers a glimpse into early Native American cultures. It was frequently visited by the ancient Basket Maker people and Anasazi, who used the area for hunting and religious ceremonies. Excellent examples of their rock art and petroglyphs are found throughout the area.
Stop at the visitor center to see exhibits and pick up easy-to-follow directions to climbing, hiking, picnic areas and rest rooms. A favorite scenic drive is to the left of the visitor center heading towards the "White Domes." There is a small entry fee upon entering Valley of Fire State Park.
Contact info: 702-397-2088
Valley of Fire State Park
MOUNT CHARLESTON
For alpine attractions, residents can drive to Mount Charleston, 35 miles northwest of Las Vegas. Take 95 North, exit Hwy 157 to Mt. Charleston. Located in the Toiyabe National Forest, Mount Charleston features panoramic views, horseback riding, and hiking trails. At 12,000 feet, the mountain has the distinction of being the third-highest peak in Nevada. Mount Charleston is also home to a variety of campgrounds with some 180 campsites and 150 picnic areas. Exit Hwy 156 for the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort at Lee Canyon which offers ski runs for all skill levels. Enjoy the following:
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For ski information contact 702-872-5462
Snow Report: 702-593-9500
For campground or picnic reservations contact 877-444-6777
Lodging info 800-794-3456 or 702-872-5500
RED ROCK CANYON
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers a one-way 13-mile scenic drive, hiking, biking, rock climbing and seasonal camping. A newly remodeled visitor center at the base of the scenic drive offers in-depth information about the area's history, recreation, geology, wildlife and vegetation. You will also find a gift shop and interactive indoor & outdoor exhibitions. There is a small entrance fee for the vistor center and the scenic drive. Please drive safely when exiting back on to the main road of two-way traffic. The conservation area, spanning some 197,000 acres, features colorful sandstone formations, canyons, a spring, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including bobcats, desert bighorn sheep and wild burros. The latter are said to be the descendents of animals used by miners in the early 1900's. Located just down the road from Red Rock is Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. Covering 520 acres, it was once a working ranch and luxury getaway for its series of famous owners, including actress Vera Krupp and millionaire Howard Hughes. The spring-fed ranch was built in the 1860s and boasts a red ranch house, green lawns, and spectacular scenery. It offers a calendar of events throughout the year, with activities ranging from performances to hikes through Sandstone Canyon. Calico Basin offers a covered picnic area and a winding boardwalk that brings you face up to beautiful calico colored rocks and boulders. As with any outdoor recreation getaway in southern Nevada, visitors should bring plenty of water and dress for the season. Red Rock Canyon is about a half-hour from the heart of Las Vegas. Head west on Charleston Blvd.
Contact info: 702-515-5360
Friends of Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Audubon Society
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
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