20 Best Things to Do in Valley of Fire – Hiking Trails, Camping, and Scenic Drives
Valley of Fire State Park, located in the Mojave Desert just an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, is a natural wonder that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. The park gets its name from the vibrant red sandstone formations that were created millions of years ago and are visible throughout the park. With so much to see and do, Valley of Fire is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Nevada. In this article, we’ll cover the 20 best things to do in Valley of Fire, so you can make the most of your visit to this stunning state park.
List of 20 Best Things to Do in Valley of Fire
Here are some recommended things to do in Valley of Fire:
| Activity | Why It’s a Good Thing to Do |
|---|---|
| Hiking Trails in Valley of Fire | Experience stunning natural beauty and unique rock formations |
| White Domes Trail | See a variety of geological features and stunning views |
| Fire Wave Trail | Witness a spectacular sandstone formation |
| Mouse’s Tank Trail | Learn about ancient petroglyphs and the area’s history |
| Rainbow Vista Trail | Enjoy panoramic views of the park’s colorful landscape |
| Elephant Rock Loop Trail | Spot unique rock formations and wildlife along the way |
| Camping in Valley of Fire | Sleep under the stars and wake up to beautiful scenery |
| Campsites in Valley of Fire | Enjoy a variety of camping options for all types of campers |
| RV Camping in Valley of Fire | Experience camping with the comforts of home |
| Scenic Drives in Valley of Fire | Take in the stunning views of the park from your car |
| Photography Opportunities in Valley of Fire | Capture the park’s stunning scenery and unique rock formations |
| Wildlife Watching in Valley of Fire | Spot a variety of wildlife and birds in their natural habitat |
| Picnicking in Valley of Fire | Enjoy a meal surrounded by stunning natural beauty |
| Visiting the Visitor Center | Learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife |
| Valley of Fire At Night | Experience the park’s unique beauty under the stars |
| Horseback Riding in Valley of Fire | Explore the park on horseback and see it from a different perspective |
| Rock Climbing in Valley of Fire | Challenge yourself and experience stunning views from the top |
| Exploring Atlatl Rock | See ancient petroglyphs and learn about the area’s history |
| Arch Rock Trail | Hike to a unique rock formation that resembles an arch |
| Balancing Rock Trail | See a unique balancing rock formation and stunning views |
Overview of Valley of Fire State Park and Key Information
Valley of Fire State Park is Nevada’s oldest state park, established in 1935. The park spans over 46,000 acres and is known for its stunning red rock formations, which are the result of erosion and other geological processes that have occurred over millions of years.
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and kit foxes, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Overton, Nevada |
| Established | 1935 |
| Size | 46,000 acres |
| Activities | Hiking, camping, scenic drives, photography, rock climbing, horseback riding |
| Entrance fee | $10 per vehicle, $5 per motorcycle, $2 per pedestrian/bicycle |
| Visitor Center | Yes, with exhibits, maps, and park information |
| Campgrounds | Two campgrounds with primitive camping and RV hookups |
| Trails | Over 10 hiking trails ranging from 0.3 to 6 miles in length |
| Features | Stunning red rock formations, petroglyphs, slot canyons, and diverse wildlife |
| Best time to visit | Spring and fall for mild temperatures and comfortable hiking conditions |
Consider reading: 15 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas During the Day
Hiking Trails in Valley of Fire
One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Valley of Fire is to go hiking. The park has several hiking trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. Here are five of the best hiking trails in Valley of Fire:
White Domes Trail
The White Domes Trail is a 1.1-mile loop trail that takes hikers through a narrow slot canyon and past several interesting rock formations. The trail is relatively easy and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Fire Wave Trail
The Fire Wave Trail is a 1.5-mile round-trip trail that takes hikers through a beautiful landscape of swirling red and white sandstone.
The trail is relatively easy and offers stunning views of the surrounding rock formations.
Mouse’s Tank Trail
The Mouse’s Tank Trail is a 0.7-mile round-trip trail that takes hikers to a natural basin where water collects after rainfall.
The trail offers stunning views of the park’s red rock formations and is relatively easy.
Rainbow Vista Trail
The Rainbow Vista Trail is a 1.5-mile round-trip trail that takes hikers to a high viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding rock formations. The trail is relatively easy and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Elephant Rock Loop Trail
The Elephant Rock Loop Trail is a 1.3-mile loop trail that takes hikers through a landscape of stunning red rock formations.
The trail is relatively easy and offers stunning views of the park’s natural beauty.
Camping in Valley of Fire
If you want to spend more time exploring Valley of Fire, camping is a great option.
The park offers a variety of campsites, from primitive to RV camping, so you can choose the option that suits you best. Camping is one the most popular Things to do in Valley of Fire.
Campsites in Valley of Fire
Valley of Fire State Park has two campgrounds available for visitors: Atlatl Rock Campground and Arch Rock Campground.
Both campgrounds offer primitive camping with no hookups, but Atlatl Rock also has RV sites with hookups available. Here’s a bit more information about each campground:
Atlatl Rock Campground
Atlatl Rock Campground is located in the eastern section of the park and offers 44 campsites with shaded tables, grills, and water nearby. The campground has two restrooms with flushing toilets and showers, and there is a dump station and potable water available for RVs.
The campground is located near the Atlatl Rock formation, which features several petroglyphs that can be accessed via a short trail from the campground.
Arch Rock Campground
Arch Rock Campground is located in the western section of the park and offers 29 campsites with shaded tables, grills, and water nearby. The campground has one restroom with flushing toilets and there is no shower facility available.
The campground is located near the Arch Rock formation, which is a popular spot for photography and can be accessed via a short trail from the campground.
Both campgrounds are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved in advance. The camping fee is $20 per night, with a maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Campers should be aware that temperatures in the park can be extremely hot during the summer months, so it’s important to pack plenty of water and stay hydrated. Additionally, fires are only allowed in the provided grills, and campers should be aware of any fire restrictions that may be in place during their visit.
RV Camping in Valley of Fire
If you’re looking for RV camping, Valley of Fire has several options. Atlatl Rock Campground and Arch Rock Campground both have RV campsites, but there are also several other campgrounds in the area that offer RV camping.
Consider reading: Free Printable Camping Packing Checklist
Scenic Drives in Valley of Fire
If you’re short on time or prefer to see the park from the comfort of your car, there are several scenic drives in Valley of Fire that offer stunning views of the park’s red rock formations.
If you are in Valley of Fire just for the day tour then going for a Scenic Drive is one of the Best things to do Valley of Fire.
Valley of Fire Scenic Drive
The Valley of Fire Scenic Drive is a 10.5-mile drive that takes visitors through some of the park’s most beautiful landscapes. The drive begins at the west entrance of the park and takes visitors through several scenic overlooks and points of interest.
Mouse’s Tank Road
Mouse’s Tank Road is a 6-mile dirt road that takes visitors through some of the park’s most remote areas. The road ends at the Mouse’s Tank Trailhead, where visitors can hike to a natural basin where water collects after rainfall.
Photography Opportunities in Valley of Fire
Valley of Fire is a photographer’s paradise, with stunning red rock formations, unique landscapes, and colorful sunrises and sunsets. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just enjoy taking photos, there are plenty of opportunities to capture stunning images in the park.
Wildlife Watching in Valley of Fire
Valley of Fire is home to a variety of wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and kit foxes. While the animals can be difficult to spot, visitors may have the opportunity to see them while hiking or driving through the park.
Picnicking in Valley of Fire
Valley of Fire has several picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the park’s natural beauty. The picnic areas have tables, grills, and restrooms, and are located near some of the park’s most scenic spots.
Visiting the Visitor Center
The Valley of Fire Visitor Center is located near the west entrance of the park and offers exhibits, educational displays, and information about the park’s history and geology. The visitor center is a great place to start your visit to the park and learn more about its unique features.
Valley of Fire At Night
Valley of Fire is a great place to stargaze, as the park has very little light pollution. Visitors can camp in the park or simply take a drive through the park at night to experience the beauty of the stars.
Horseback Riding in Valley of Fire
Valley of Fire offers several horseback riding trails that take visitors through some of the park’s
stunning landscapes. Visitors can bring their own horses or book a guided horseback ride with a local outfitter.
Places to visit near Valley of Fire
Valley of Fire State Park is located in a beautiful area of Nevada, and there are plenty of other interesting places to visit in the surrounding area. Here are some suggestions for places to check out near Valley of Fire:
1. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is located just to the west of Valley of Fire and is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. The area also has hiking trails, campgrounds, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
2. Hoover Dam
Hoover Dam is a massive concrete arch-gravity dam that spans the Colorado River between Nevada and Arizona. The dam is an engineering marvel and offers tours that take visitors inside the dam to see its inner workings.
3. Las Vegas
Las Vegas is located just over an hour’s drive from Valley of Fire and offers a wide variety of entertainment options, from casinos and shows to museums and art galleries. The city is also home to some of the best restaurants in the country and has a vibrant nightlife scene.
4. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located to the east of Las Vegas and is known for its stunning red rock formations and diverse wildlife. The area offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and scenic drives.
Consider reading: 10 Best Things to Do in Red Rock Canyon
5. Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is located about three hour’s drive from Valley of Fire and is known for its extreme temperatures and stark desert landscapes. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for stargazing.
These are just a few of the many interesting places to visit near Valley of Fire State Park. Whether you’re interested in outdoor recreation, history, or city life, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area of Nevada.
Consider reading: 15 Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Valley of Fire
Valley of Fire is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just looking for a fun day trip, the park’s stunning red rock formations, hiking trails, and scenic drives are sure to impress.
Don’t forget to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, and be prepared for the desert heat.
FAQs on Things to Do in Valley of Fire
Can you hike in Valley of Fire?
Yes, Valley of Fire has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the park’s red rock formations.
How long does it take to drive through Valley of Fire?
The park’s scenic drive is 10.5 miles long and takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to complete.
Is camping allowed in Valley of Fire?
Yes, Valley of Fire has two campgrounds that offer primitive camping and RV camping.
What is the best time of year to visit Valley of Fire?
The best time to visit Valley of Fire is in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and comfortable for hiking and outdoor activities.
Can you bring your own horse to ride in Valley of Fire?
Yes, visitors can bring their own horses or book a guided horseback ride with a local outfitter in Valley of Fire.
How long should you spend at Valley of Fire?
The recommended time to spend at the Valley of Fire is 3 to 4 hours. This will allow you to drive through the park and complete one or two short hikes. If you want to see more places or add another hike to your list, plan to spend more time here.
Is Valley of Fire worth seeing?
Yes, Valley of Fire State Park is definitely worth seeing, especially if you are short on time. With trails that are not too long or difficult, it’s easy to explore some of the park’s best hikes in just an afternoon.
Can you just drive through Valley of Fire?
Absolutely! The Valley of Fire is a scenic road that can be experienced by driving through it. There are two main entrances, one on the West and one on the East side of the park, making it easily accessible by car. Just make sure to stay on designated roads and always follow posted speed limits for a safe and enjoyable drive.
Which is better Valley of Fire or red rock?
If you’re looking for a variety of scenery with vibrant colors and the chance to see desert bighorn sheep, then the Valley of Fire should be your choice. Nevada’s oldest state park also features more red rock formations, arches, petroglyphs, and a worthwhile slot canyon hike on the White Domes Trail compared to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
