Last Updated on April 8, 2022
Las Vegas is quite stereotypical for being the capital of all things gambling, partying, and entertainment. If you’re visiting Sin City, that’s what you are presumed to be doing. But with the abrupt shift that our world has experienced in recent times, crowd-infested tourism is just a bit more stressful than it previously used to be pre-pandemic. On your next visit, here are some outdoor things to do in Las Vegas as an alternative to the Strip.
Red Rocks
Beyond the chaos and glow of lights from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon shows off some stunning scenery for those willing to meander away from the heart of Sin City.
Grab your hiking boots or a pair of tennis shoes you don’t mind getting dirty (I promise they’ll be covered in red dust by the time you leave). Red Rock Canyon has tons of hikes and areas to explore for any level hiker. Even if hiking is not your thing, it’s absolutely beautiful to just drive through the area – I recommend going along Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive.
Like anywhere in Vegas, plan to do your outdoor activities in the early morning during the summer months when it gets extremely hot. Also, beware that there is little to no service in the Red Rocks. Download a map and plan accordingly.
Note that some trails do require a reservation or entrance fee to get into the main park area. Though, there are other surrounding trails that you can just pull up to to hike around without prior notice or fees, one of which being the Calico Basin South Loop.
Don’t have a car? No worries! Hop on a Red Rock Canyon tour that includes transportation, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and more.
Don’t forget your camera and drone! Red Rock Canyon is one of the most beautiful and popular outdoor things to do in Las Vegas – you’ll definitely want to capture some of this stunning scenery.
Mount Charleston
So you’ve had it with the heat, dry air, and lack of greenery? I’m right there with ya! Thankfully, there is an escape plan.
Less than an hour away from the Strip, you’ll find the wonderful Mount Charleston – a literal fresh breath of air.
Full of lush green trees, hiking paths, and campgrounds, this getaway is essential to some locals. If you’re here in the wintertime, you can even visit Mount Charleston to see some snow!
Note that there are not many places to stop for food or essentials up in Mount Charleston. Plan to pack everything you will need ahead of time. Also, regardless of how hot it is down near the Strip, make sure you bring warm layers! Temperatures can significantly drop as you trek further up into the mountain, or as the sun begins to drop.
Although there are plenty of trails to choose from, Mary Jane Falls is a great one to start with.
Lake Mead
If you have xerophobia (a fear of the desert and dry places), then Lake Mead is your gift from God.
Less than an hour away from the Strip, there are many areas of Lake Mead you can visit.
Check out the recreation area where you will find sunbathers, boaters, jet skiers, and more soaking in all the H2O they can get.
Explore different trails (I highly suggest the Historic Railroad Trail overlooking Lake Mead), go on a scenic drive around the lake, or stay overnight at a campground.
As many visitors do not know about some of the awesome trails around Lake Mead, this is one of my favorite outdoor things to do in Las Vegas.
Hoover Dam
If you’re at Lake Mead, it would be silly not to stop at the Hoover Dam.
The Hoover Dam is not only a sight to see, but essential to providing hydroelectric power, irrigation water, and to control the flooding of the Colorado River.
Visit on your own to overlook the magnificent man-built dam, or take a tour to learn more about the history of its purpose and how it was built.
Lake Las Vegas
Another great option that involves H2O (and is great for kids), is Lake Las Vegas.
Let the kiddos play in the water at the Aqua Park, let the teens give the cable park a go, or lower the adrenaline with a kayak, paddle board, or electric boat rental. There are also golf courses on the lake if you’d prefer to stay dry.
The Lake is fairly small (easy to kayak or paddle board around), but has awesome views and breathtaking houses to gawk at along the shore.
Extend your stay off-the-Strip and stay at the gorgeous Hilton Resort or Westin Resort – both right on the lake with top-notch amenities and views.
Valley of Fire
Feeling really ambitious to get off the Strip? Make your way to the Valley of Fire.
Still less that an hour away from the madness, the Valley of Fire is a remote getaway in the middle of the desert.
Plan to go at the coolest part of the day, if possible, and remember to bring lots of water as well as download a map in the likely case of bad cell service.
There are plenty of trails at the Valley of Fire to choose from – options for every level hiker – as well as scenic drives for those wanting to stay cool in the comfort of their car. Note that there is an entrance fee to get into the park.
If you are visiting without a car, I recommend taking a hiking tour, which provides transportation to and from the Valley of Fire, the entrance fee, snacks, water, a guide, choice of hiking level, and more – making it a convenient, stress-free trip.
Seven Magic Mountains
So, you want to get off the Strip but still need your outdoor adventure to be Insta-worthy? Head to the Seven Magic Mountains to experience this quirky and colorful art installation (while it lasts!).
The installation was set to expire at the end of 2021, but extending the installation to 2026 is in the works. Aside from the Red Rocks and Hoover Dam, the Seven Magic Mountains is one of the most popular outdoor things to do in Las Vegas for influencers and photographers. Visit now before it’s too late!
Need a ride there? Join a small-group tour which includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, your own personal guide, information on the installation and artist, as well as bottled water and snacks.
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