If you’re anywhere near Las Vegas, Nevada you should set aside at least a few days to experience these Valley of Fire State Park hikes. A mere 55 miles from Harry Reid International Airport, in spite of the relatively short distance between these two points, the landscapes could not be more different.
In a nutshell, Valley of Fire State park got its name because of the bright red Aztec Sandstone formations you’ll see all over the park. The vast majority of these sandstone formations formed over 150 million years ago from shifting sand dunes, but don’t worry – the dunes are long gone, and this magnificent state park is here to stay.
Valley Of Fire State Park Hikes – 6 Valley Of Fire Trails We Will Never Forget
To best access the fascinating geology on offer here, you’ll want to lace up your boots (or shoes) and experience one of the many Valley of Fire hikes. Below, we cover 6 of the most spectacular ones in the park.
They range from super easy to moderate, so quite likely there’ll be something everyone can enjoy. Before you hit the trails, check out our day hiking packing guide, so you’ll have all the gear you need for a fun, safe, and enjoyable hike!
And as always, if you have any questions about all of this, feel free to leave us a comment below.
Valley Of Fire State Park Map
Who doesn’t like a good map? We certainly do! We recommend you download this so that you can use it when you’re offline, as there are many spots in the park where you won’t have service.
Things To Note Before You Hike In Valley Of Fire State Park
Before you set off to explore Valley of Fire State Park, we recommend you read the park’s full field notes. Some of the points we thought are most important are:
- Pets are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash of not more than six feet in length. Pets are not allowed in the Visitor Center.
- Drive only on approved travel routes and park only in designated places along the roadside shoulders. Motor vehicles are not allowed on trails.
- Removing, disturbing, or damaging any historic structure, artifact, rock, plant life, fossil, or other feature is prohibited. State and federal laws protect this area and its resources.
Valley Of Fire Hikes #1: Prospect Trail
The Prospect Trail at Valley Of Fire State Park was one of our favorites because it was an easy/intermediate route, we didn’t see anyone else on the trail, and it allowed us to get up close and personal with the iconic red Aztec Sandstone that inspired the name for this gem of a Nevada state park.
And…
While we did not hike the entire 9.3 mi (14.9 km) out-and-back route, by starting at the southern terminus of the trail and hiking in about 2 mi (3.2 km), we could begin exploring the otherworldly red sandstone.
The kids LOVED climbing all over the rocks, and there we ample shaded spots for a nice picnic, so of course, we had a lovely snack break too.
Valley Of Fire Hikes #2: Seven Wonders Trail
If you’re looking for an easy route, the 2 mi (3.2 km) 7 Wonders Loop Trail is just for you. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that it routes you past seven stunning geological sites which include:
- Fire Cave
- Thunderstorm Arch
- Kaolin Wash
- Striped Rock
- Crazy Hill
- Pink Canyon
- Fire Wave
If you’re eager to extend this trail, you can do so by connecting to the White Domes Trail.
Valley Of Fire Hikes #3: Fire Wave Trail
This 1.5 mile (2.4 km) round trip trail is part of the 7 wonders trail. It’s yet another easy route, and it’ll allow you to see some otherworldly striped rock formations along the way. It’s quite a popular trail, so head here early or late in the day if you’d like to avoid the crowds.
Valley Of Fire Hikes #4: Rainbow Vista Trail
This 1.1 mile (1.7 km) out-and-back route is an easy, scenic, and family-friendly option. Given that the trail is sandy the entire way, the loose surface makes it a bit tiring on the calves. However, the soft sand is also perfect for toddlers who might take a tumble every now and then, as it’ll almost certainly cushion their fall.
Valley Of Fire Hikes #5: Mouse’s Tank Trail
If petroglyphs are your thing, you will definitely want to check out Mouse’s Tank Trail. This super-easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) out-and-back route has petroglyphs virtually along the entire route. And on the topic of petroglyphs, if you’re keen for a petroglyph overload, and you’re ever anywhere near the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, which we mention in our Southern New Mexico road trip itinerary, we highly recommend you check out those too.
Valley Of Fire Hikes #6: Natural Arches Trail
This 4.2-mile (6.75 km) out-and-back trail is one we consider intermediate-advanced. The main reason is that you have to hike on soft sand the whole time – a real calf burner. Also, while the trail itself was quite scenic, we think other places in the park are equally if not more scenic.
Conclusion – Valley Of Fire State Park Nevada Is A Family-Friendly Hiking Destination
If you can’t tell by this point, there are TONS of family-friendly hiking options at Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada. Make sure you’re prepared with the right gear, especially enough water, and you’ll certainly have a memorable time at this unique hiking destination.
If you have any questions about all of this, feel free to leave us a comment below, and we’ll get back to you in a flash!
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