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Nevada is one of the most mountainous of all states with 314 identified
ranges and fourth in biodiversity. Such diverse terrain is also ideal for adventurous vistors and southern
Nevadans. The state offers a surprising number of outdoor
recreation opportunities and most are only a short drive away
from Las Vegas. |
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Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located just 15 miles west of the Strip. There is hiking, biking, rock climbing, scenery, and offers a 13-mile scenic drive for a fee. A visitor center near the scenic drive entrance has in-depth, interactive information about the area's history, recreation, geology, wildlife and vegetation.
Red Rock Canyon, spanning some 197,000 acres, features colorful
sandstone formations, canyons and is home to a variety of wildlife. The wild burros are said to be the
descendents of animals used by miners in the early 1900's. Daily passes and reservations are required for the Scenic Loop beginning November 3, 2020. |
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Mount Charleston, an alpine attraction located in the Toiyabe National Forest 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 plants, trees, and picnic areas. The Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort at Lee Canyon offers ski runs for all skill levels. |
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The Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada's oldest and biggest state park is an easy 55-mile drive from Las Vegas. Valley of Fire takes its name from fiery sandstone formations which were formed by shifting sand dunes. The geology 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. |
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Lake Mead National Recreation Area and Hoover Dam is a 30-mile ride east of Las
Vegas for those interested in water sports. The lake is the world's
largest man-made reservoir and provides a wide variety of year-round
recreational activities including boating, swimming, hiking, scuba
diving and sport fishing. The 1.5-million acre recreation area that surrounds the lake is equally unique. Three of the nation's four desert ecosystems meet here - the Great Basin, and the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. more... |
For more scenic wonders, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is a
day drive (300 miles) southeast of Las Vegas in Arizona. The canyon,
carved by the Colorado River is one mile deep, more than 200 miles
long and varies in width from four to 18 miles. The South Rim is
open to visitors year round and features walking trails and mule
trips. It also has restaurants, lodging and a visitor center. |
Zion
National Park in Utah is a 229-square-mile park, a 2-
1/2-hour ride from Las Vegas. It features scenic waterfalls
and canyons carved by the Virgin River.  One hour further away, Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-see for visitors to Utah. The area is a geologic wonder - its colorful limestone has been carved by erosion into thousands of arches, spires and mazes. more...
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As with any outdoor recreation, these southern Nevada getaways are
beautiful but challenging. Safety should always come first so visitors should always bring plenty of water and dress for the season.
Enjoy the beauty, but get home safely to talk about it. |
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