The Natural Wonders of Nevada
Nevada has much more to offer behind the bright lights of Las Vegas. Beyond Sin City is a long list of beautiful natural wonders that are waiting to be explored. The landscape and terrain of Nevada are also surprisingly diverse, despite being mostly made up of desert, there are numerous mountain ranges and even places where you can see snow.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon can be found just 25 minutes west of Las Vegas. This area is a popular place for tourists to visit without having to commit to a long trip outside of the city. There are numerous hiking trails throughout the area, such as the Calico Tanks Trail and Ice Box Canyon, which offer breathtaking views and varied difficulty levels. It is also a great place to come and take pictures.
The environment is quite arid and dry but the surrounding scenery is completely alien. There are various canyons and mountains formed out of rich red rock that tower over visitors.
Mount Charleston
Mount Charleston makes for another great day trip outside of Las Vegas. Only 45 minutes away from the strip is the majestic Mount Charleston. This is one of the few places near Las Vegas where you might be able to see snow for most of the year.
There are numerous hiking trails that take you up to the peak of the mountain which then grants travelers the chance to witness some breathtaking views of the landscape below. In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter months at Lee Canyon or camping in the summer, making it a year-round destination.
Valley of Fire State Park
The Valley of Fire is roughly an hour north of Las Vegas and it makes for the perfect place to take a relaxing drive if you want to get away from the lights and fast-paced style of the city for a day.
The Valley of Fire gets its name from the incredibly bright and vibrant red rock formations that can be found here. There are some places that look as though they belong on Mars. The park is both the largest and oldest in Nevada and has plenty of other things to do namely hikes and guided tours. Visitors can explore ancient petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock and marvel at the natural beauty of the Fire Wave, a popular photo spot.
Cathedral Gorge State Park
Two hours north of Las Vegas is the stunning Cathedral Gorge State Park. The main attraction at this park is a massive natural-forming stone ziggurat-like structure that looms over the flat and dry desert landscape.
The sides of these formations are made out of smaller jagged stone pillars that climb all the way to the top. The whole park is filled with similar geological wonders that are truly amazing to see in person. Taking a hike around the park is always a good time with friends and family. The park's unique formations were shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago, creating dramatic slot canyons perfect for exploration, just make sure to bring water and plenty of sunscreen.
Sand Mountain
Far away from any large city or urban center is Sand Mountain. Sand Mountain is the largest sand dune in Nevada, approximately 600 feet high and 2 miles long. Travelling here is not for the faint of heart but it is certainly worth it if you can withstand the heat and harsh Nevada sun. Nearby, the Sand Springs Pony Express Station offers a glimpse into the region's history, providing an added cultural experience.
Roughly two and a half hours east of Reno, Sand Mountain is quite remote compared to the other natural wonders. Locals and tourists alike often visit here to go off-roading or to sled down the massive slopes of Sand Mountian.
Lehman Caves
Not far from the Utah-Nevada border is the Lehman Cave Network. Located within Great Basin National Park, the Lehman Caves are some of the most beautiful caverns in the United States. Forged through millions of years of geological events, the result is a place that looks like it walked off the pages of a fantasy novel.
Tickets that include guided tours are required to view the caves in person. The staff who walk visitors through the caves are always friendly and enthusiastic and will answer any questions that you might have. Notable formations within the caves include the Parachute Shield and Gothic Palace, which showcase the beauty of natural mineral deposits. The Lehman Caves is a great attraction to visit with friends and family.
Lunar Crater National Natural Landmark
An hour and a half west of the town of Tonopah is the Lunar Crater National Natural Landmark. the Lunar Crater is part of an ancient volcanic field that has been inactive for millions of years. However, what it left behind is the largest naturally formed crater in all of Nevada.
More than 400 ft deep, the Lunar Crater is the perfect backdrop for any photos that commemorate a trip the Nevada. The back roads around the crater are also the perfect place to go off-roading and enjoy the vast emptiness of the desert landscape. The crater's rim offers panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic field, with its rugged terrain providing a surreal backdrop for stargazing at night.
Discover Nevada's Natural Marvels
If you want to take a break from the bright lights of Las Vegas, there are almost endless amounts of natural wonders the see in Nevada. Nevada has one of the most unique and interesting landscapes in the United States and is sure to create long-lasting memories for those who are willing to take the time to explore it.
