Join us on a winter road trip adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Utah and Nevada, where we discovered two Nevada state parks that rival even the grandeur of national parks. With slot canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and terrain straight out of a sci-fi movie, these parks are a must-see on your next road trip itinerary.
Valley of Fire State Park
Just 45 minutes from Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park beckons with its fiery red sandstone formations, which seemingly ignite with an otherworldly glow at sunrise and sunset. Reminiscent of the famed “Wave” hike, the park boasts its own “Fire Wave” trail, where rippling rock formations create a mesmerizing sight against the desert backdrop.
Our top trail suggestions:
Fire Wave and Seven Wonders Loop
1.90 miles, loop, moderate
This trail sports the iconic fire wave and pink pastel canyon. We visited at sunset and got to view the effects of the shadows and golden sun on the vibrant rocks!
White Domes Loop
1.1 miles, loop, moderate
This trail offered expansive views of rock colors all throughout park, with easy pop offs from the trail to climb the different rock areas. These expansive views then transition to a series of small slots canyons and sandy paths for a different look at the rock layers.
Rainbow Vista
1 mile, out-and-back, easy
Rainbow Vista was a trail we decided to pop onto at the last minute before we left the park. It was an easy out-and-back walk on a sandy path to a view of rocky canyon full of vibrant reds and oranges.
With the Valley of Fire Highway running through the state park, it was also easy to pop off the road and view interesting formations along the road, some of them named like the Beehives and Petrified Logs.
Where to Stay
This was our first stop on our first campervan trip out of Vegas and the park has two first-come, first-serve campgrounds. We stayed at Arch Rock Campgrounds with vault toilets, a picnic shelter and self-serve pay station. There were RV hookups available at the other campground Atlatl.
Valley of Fire Highway winds through the park, offering convenient stops at intriguing formations like the Beehives and Petrified Logs. For accommodation, the park features two first-come, first-serve campgrounds, such as the Arch Rock Campgrounds with vault toilets and RV hookups at Atlatl.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
On our return portion of the road trip back to Vegas, we made a slight detour to the west to check out Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area– a breathtaking oasis of natural beauty in the heart of the Mojave Desert.
For the more adventurous souls among us, rock climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding opportunities abound. For those who prefer their feet on the ground, the hiking trails were just as beautiful. The canyon features a one-way 13-mile scenic drive that requires a timed reservation in order to enter. Since it is also one way, be sure to plan your hikes accordingly as you will need another timed entry reservation to re-enter the park.
Our top trail suggestions:
Calico Tanks Trail
2.40 miles, out-and-back, moderate
Some scrambling on this trail was one thing we loved, but it does slow you down a little bit as you progress through the trail. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear to prevent slipping and enjoy being immersed in the red canyon rock.
Ice Box Canyon Trail
2.10 miles, out-and-back, moderate
One of the best trails in the canyon, this hike features a pool and small waterfall at the end. Like many of the other trails, this one also involves scrambling but it still a moderately easy hike.
Where to Stay
There is a campground associated with Red Rock Canyon that isn’t far from the scenic loop that can be reserved through Recreation.gov. However, we decided to boondock nearby off Lovell Canyon Road on BLM property on for an isolated and quiet night’s sleep.
As you plan your next winter road trip, be sure to include these two remarkable stops on your itinerary. From the fiery landscapes of Valley of Fire to the rugged beauty of Red Rock Canyon, these natural wonders promise unforgettable adventures and timeless memories amidst the desert splendor.