Lava Butte/Rainbow Gardens

 The trail is .1 miles, and is perfect for all skill levels and for families who want to see some of the scenery in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The trail is accessible year round and allows dogs.

A popular out and back (or up and down) hike just outside Vegas. The trip up will burn you out, go early and bring water! The top will reward you with some of the best views of Las Vegas to the West, Lake Las Vegas to the South, and Lake Mead to the east.

The shoreline of "Lake" Mead is what you would expect of a large, man-made reservoir with fluctuating water levels (muddy & unpleasant), but that is not to say that the Lake Mead National Recreation Area is not filled with incredible places to explore (it is), and Boxcar Cove is a solid spot to camp / boondock for free (depending on when/where you enter the Area) on your way to those places...

Boulder Beach at Lake Mead is a great place to get your toes wet while road tripping.  It's a big beach with a campground, ample parking, and ducks!  The water is very clear and an amazing blue.  When the wind picks up there are little waves forming, so keep that in mind if you plan on kayaking or paddling.

This man-made lake on the Colorado River is underrated in my opinion.  It has everything an outdoor enthusiast could want from scuba diving, hiking, horseback riding, all kinds of water sports, and plenty of camping options.      This beach is near Boulder City.  Use the Boulder City Entrance, go north on Lakeshore Road for 2 miles. Turn right and follow the signs to the lake.  watercrafts an...

These tunnels were built to support the construction of the Hoover Dam. If you decide to go all the way to the dam, there is an elevator for accessibility along with stairs. This hike is relatively flat, and perfect for children - but mind the distance.  Driving directions: From Las Vegas, NV, take 93 south through Boulder City, NV. Turn Left on Lake Shore Dr. If you drive past the Hacienda, y...