Valley of Fire State Park: Trails & Attractions

Experience the Beauty of Valley of Fire State Park: Trails and Landmarks

Located just 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, known for its fiery red sandstone formations and ancient petroglyphs.

This stunning park offers visitors an array of iconic landmarks, such as the Fire Wave Trail with its swirling red-and-white sandstone, and Elephant Rock, a natural formation resembling its namesake. Don’t miss the Seven Sisters, a cluster of towering rock spires, perfect for a picnic or photographs. For history buffs, Atlatl Rock showcases petroglyphs dating back thousands of years.

With scenic drives, such as Mouse’s Tank Road, and family-friendly hikes like the White Domes Trail, Valley of Fire State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Best time to visit

Must-see attractions

Top 3 Facts about Valley of Fire State Park

01

Ancient Petroglyphs

Valley of Fire is home to over 3,000 petroglyphs carved into the red sandstone by ancient Native American cultures, some dating back over 2,000 years. These intricate rock carvings offer insights into the lives and beliefs of the region’s early inhabitants.

02

Aztec Sandstone Formations

The park is renowned for its stunning red sandstone formations, formed from the Aztec Sandstone during the Jurassic period. The vibrant red coloration is due to iron oxide (hematite) in the sandstone, giving the park its fiery appearance.

03

Filming Locations

Due to its otherworldly landscapes, Valley of Fire has served as a backdrop for several Hollywood films and commercials. Movies like “Star Trek: Generations” and “Transformers” have featured scenes filmed within the park.

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Camping and transportation in Valley of Fire State Park

Backcountry camping permits required for wilderness camping opportunities.

How to Get to Valley of Fire State Park

Are you planning a trip to Valley of Fire State Park? Let’s figure out the best way to reach this desert gem and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

From Las Vegas:

Take I-15 N towards Salt Lake City.
Exit onto NV-169 S/Valley of Fire Hwy.
Continue to follow Valley of Fire Hwy to the park’s east entrance.

The trip is about an hour’s drive, covering 53 miles. If you’re looking for a scenic route, consider entering the park from the west entrance through Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

By Air:

Fly into Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarran International).
Rent a car at the airport.

Places to Stay Near Valley of Fire State Park

Imagine waking up to the sunrise trickling over fiery red rock formations. Camping inside Valley of Fire State Park brings that dream to life. Here’s what you can expect:

Camping: You’ll find two campgrounds, each offering a unique experience with facilities to make your stay comfortable. Pitch your tent or park your RV at one of these sites:
- Atlatl Rock Campground: Equipped with shaded tables, water, and power hook-ups for RVs. Plus, you can’t beat the quick access to hiking trails!
- Arch Rock Campground: Offers more of that rustic camping charm. There are no hookups here, but the views? Unforgettable!

After hiking and snapping photos, maybe you’re yearning for a bit more comfort. The Moapa Valley offers that small-town charm with a selection of places to lay your head. Check these out:

Hotels and Motels: You’ve got options from budget-friendly to more plush accommodations. Look for places like the North Shore Inn at Lake Mead, which scores points for proximity and comfort.
Lodges and Resorts: For a sprinkle of luxury amidst nature, resorts near Overton provide plush bedding and, often, a stunning view of the park.

Driving

You can drive within Valley of Fire State Park. Several scenic routes and paved roads wind through the park, allowing visitors to explore its various attractions and viewpoints from the comfort of their vehicles.

Public

Valley of Fire State Park does not have public transportation. The park primarily relies on personal vehicles. Visitors typically drive their own cars or rental vehicles to explore the park and access its various points of interest, trails, and scenic viewpoints.

Parking

Valley of Fire State Park provides parking areas throughout the park. These parking areas are typically near major attractions, trailheads, and scenic viewpoints.

Best Time to Go to Valley of Fire State Park

Summer

Brace yourself for some heat if you’re visiting in summer. With mercury levels often surging above 100°F, you’ll want to plan activities during the cooler morning or late afternoon hours. Early starts or evening jaunts are perfect to beat the heat, so don’t forget a hat and sunscreen. Remember, the desert isn’t just hot; it’s also a spectacle of deep reds and vibrant oranges – especially captivating at sunrise or sunset.

Average temperature: Above 100°F
Safety tip: Limit midday outdoor activity; stay cool and hydrated

Winter

If you’re a fan of cooler but not cold weather, winter can be a delight here. Daytime temperatures hover from 54°F to 75°F, while overnight lows dip into the 30s. It’s typically dry, with the occasional rain from Pacific storms. This season is calm, offering tranquil trails and the chance for reflective solitude amid shorter days.

Average temperature: 54°F – 75°F (day) / Mid-30°F to mid-40°F (night)
Accessibility: Most areas are accessible, but check for winter advisories

Spring

With temperatures averaging between 54°F to 75°F, spring welcomes you with mild and comfortable weather. It’s a fantastic time to explore the park as the wildflowers bloom and the days get longer, giving you more daylight to enjoy hiking and sightseeing. Expect sunny skies and remember to pack water—staying hydrated is key!

Average temperature: 54°F – 75°F
Recommended activities: Hiking, photography of wildflowers, picnics

Fall

This season is a crowd-pleaser, with comfortable conditions and average temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F. You’ll enjoy the park without the extreme heat of summer or the chill of winter. The fall colors add an extra flair—though subtler than traditional autumnal regions, the desert does a beautiful dance with shades.

Average temperature: 75°F – 85°F
Seasonal events: Check for local park events, as they may vary

Must-See Attractions

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Atlatl Rock

This rock is known for its ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) depicting various designs and figures, including the atlatl (a spear-throwing tool). A staircase leads up to the rock face, providing a closer look at these fascinating carvings.

Mouse’s Tank Trail

This short hike leads to a natural basin known as Mouse’s Tank, where water collects after rains. Along the trail, you can also view petroglyphs and enjoy the tranquility of the desert landscape.

Arch Rock

Arch Rock is a natural sandstone arch formation accessible via a short hike from the Arch Rock parking area. This unique geological feature is great for photography enthusiasts.

Helpful Tips: Making the Most of Your Adventure to Valley of Fire State Park

Plan Ahead

Check the park’s official website or contact the Visitor Center for information on park hours, trail conditions, and any alerts or closures. This will help you plan your visit accordingly.

Pack Essentials

Pack plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike or explore during warmer months. Sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy walking shoes are also recommended, as the desert environment can be hot and rugged.

Respect Wildlife

Valley of Fire is home to diverse desert wildlife and fragile ecosystems. Observe wildlife from a distance, stay on designated trails, and leave natural objects undisturbed.

Stay Hydrated & Cool

Temperatures in the desert can vary greatly. To stay hydrated and comfortable, drink plenty of water throughout your visit and seek shade during breaks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is located approximately 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas, making it about an hour’s drive from the city.

Yes, there is an entrance fee per vehicle. The fee is $10 per vehicle for Nevada residents and $15 for out-of-state residents.

Yes, the park offers two campgrounds: Atlatl Rock Campground and Arch Rock Campground. Both campgrounds have facilities for tent and RV camping, and reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

The park offers several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties. Popular trails include Mouse’s Tank Trail, White Domes Trail, Fire Wave Trail, and Rainbow Vista Trail.

The fall (October-November) and spring (March-April) months are generally considered the best times to visit due to milder temperatures. Winter can also be pleasant during the day, but nights can be cold. Summers are very hot.

Driving through the park on Valley of Fire Road takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours without stops. However, plan for additional time to explore attractions, hike trails, and enjoy viewpoints.