Scenic Drives Near Las Vegas

The desert around Las Vegas is stunningly beautiful — red rock formations, mountain passes, desert valleys, and some of the most dramatic road scenery in the American West. All within an hour or two of the Strip.

Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive — 30 Minutes

A 13-mile one-way loop through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Towering sandstone formations in shades of red, cream, and brown rise from the desert floor. Multiple pulloffs with short trails and viewpoints.

Best stop: Calico Hills — the red and white banded rock formations are the most photographed scenery near Las Vegas.

Details: $15 vehicle entry. The loop takes 30-45 minutes without stops, 2-3 hours with hiking. Timed entry reservations may be required on weekends.

Valley of Fire — 1 Hour

Nevada’s oldest state park, 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone that looks like it’s on fire at sunrise and sunset. The road through the park is one of the most spectacular short drives in the West.

Must-stop: Fire Wave trailhead, Mouse’s Tank (petroglyphs), White Domes, Elephant Rock.

Details: $10 vehicle entry. Best at sunrise or sunset for photography. Brutally hot in summer — bring water even for the drive.

Lake Mead Scenic Drive — 30 Minutes

The Lakeshore Road and Northshore Road loop around portions of Lake Mead with views of the lake, desert mountains, and the Colorado River. The drive from the Strip to Hoover Dam via Lake Mead Boulevard is the scenic alternative to the highway.

Mount Charleston — 45 Minutes

From the desert floor to 8,000+ feet in 45 minutes. Kyle Canyon Road climbs from cactus and sage into pine and aspen forests. In summer it’s 30-40°F cooler than Vegas. In winter there’s actual snow.

Best stop: Cathedral Rock trailhead, Mary Jane Falls trail, or just the overlook pulloffs along the road.

The Extraterrestrial Highway (Route 375) — 2 Hours to Start

The loneliest road in Nevada runs past Area 51 (yes, that Area 51). Desert, mountains, and absolutely nothing human-made for miles. The Little A’Le’Inn in Rachel, NV is the alien-themed bar/restaurant that’s become a pilgrimage for UFO enthusiasts. A uniquely Nevada road trip.

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• Las Vegas
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• Nevada