With some of the most stunning scenery in the Mojave Desert, the Valley of Fire State Park is a popular escape from nearby Las Vegas. Guided hikes are a popular option, as well as photography tours, buggy or ATV tours, and helicopter tours, for a bird’s-eye view of both the Valley of Fire and the Grand Canyon West Rim. Couples planning a wedding can arrange to say their vows amid the fiery rock formations of this state park.
This site is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven ground.
The park provides little shade, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Most tours from Las Vegas last 4–8 hours.
The Valley of Fire is in the Mojave Desert, 58 miles (93 kilometers) from the Las Vegas Strip. The most convenient way to visit is on a guided tour offering hotel pickup, but you can drive yourself by taking I-35 North to the Valley of Fire/Lake Mead exit.
The Valley of Fire is open sunrise to sunset. Those who wish to stay overnight can do so at one of two campgrounds. For hiking and other outdoor activities, the mild weather between November through March is ideal; in the summer, when temperatures can top 100°F (38°C), it’s best to tour the park by air-conditioned car instead.
While you’re visiting the Valley of Fire, consider a side trip to one of the nearby sights. The park is adjacent to Lake Mead, which has plenty of recreational options on water and land. Just northwest of the park lies the town of Overton, where it’s possible to fill up on gas, grab some food, or visit the Lost City Museum, an archaeological museum devoted to local sites that were excavated in the 1920s and '30s.
