Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas: Best Adventures, Nature Escapes & Experiences

For outdoor activities in Las Vegas, everything from serene lakes to thrilling rides is on the table. From shopping to dining to amusement rides, we're all about exploration and discovery, so please join us on this whirlwind tour of outdoor fun in Las Vegas.

By the way, Cirque du Soleil has been a fixture of Las Vegas nightlife for decades. We’d like to think that makes us locals! If you’re looking for other things to do in Las Vegas, we’ve got heaps and heaps of content worth checking out.

Top Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas

Take in the desert's magic with our top suggestions for spending time outdoors in Las Vegas.

• Red Rock Canyon: A scenic drive or hiking adventure
• Hoover Dam & Memorial Bridge: A day-trip from downtown Las Vegas, bringing you closer to magnificent engineering and photo-worthy vistas
• Valley of Fire State Park: Catch glimpses of neon-red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs
• Seven Magic Mountains: an art installation featuring brightly painted stacks of boulders
• Neon Graveyard: an outdoor museum featuring vintage Vegas signs and relics of a city that was.

Hiking Trails in Las Vegas

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area invites visitors to see what Vegas's surroundings have to offer. In addition to winding hiking trails, which guide you alongside spectacular rocks and geographic formations, there's also a 13-mile scenic drive.

• Address: 1000 Scenic Loop Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89161
• Distance from the Strip: 17 miles
• Entrance fee: About $20 per vehicle
• Type of activities: Hiking trails for all skills, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, a scenic drive.
• Pro tip: Like most Vegas activities, arrive here early in the day to avoid crowds. Bring plenty of water if you're planning on hiking.

Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is home to some of Vegas's most extraordinary natural wonders: it's 40,000 acres of bright right Aztec sandstone outcrops, petrified trees, and petroglyphs that, according to science, formed over 2,000 years ago.

• Address: 29450 Valley of Fire Rad, Overton, NV 89040
• Distance from the Strip: About an hour drive
• Entrance fee: $10 for Nevada-registered vehicles, $15 for out-of-state vehicles
• Type of activities: Scenic drives among red sandstone formations, short to moderate hiking trails, picnic spots, and more.
• Pro tip: Many trails close during peak summer months for safety reasons—temperatures are unbearably hot in the summer months. Whatever time of year you visit, be sure to pack plenty of water.

Mount Charleston

Mount Charleston is a peak just outside Vegas that's as tall as a skyscraper. If you need a break from the Vegas heat, an excursion here will keep you cool. As far as hiking trails in Las Vegas go, the ones you'll find threading through Mount Charleston are catered to all skill sets. Come here for a quick day jaunt and take advantage of its designated camping areas or picnic spots.

• Address: Accessible via NV SR-57 and NV SR-158
• Distance from the Strip: About an hour drive
• Entrance fee: No general admission
• Type of activities: Stargazing, hiking, picnics, scenic drives, winter activities like skiing

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead National Recreation Area feels a little like being on another planet: its vast landscapes range from endless stretches of mountains, canyons, and water. The lake itself is a reservoir on the Colorado River, created by Hoover Dam. Boaters, anglers, and campers alike enjoy its shores.

• Address: 601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV 89005
• Distance from the Strip: Just under an hour
• Entrance fee: Private vehicle entry: approximately $25
• Type of activities: Boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding, scenic lake views, camping.
• Pro tip: Bring sun protection, and always check for any lake or water advisories.

Walking & Scenic Trails Around Las Vegas

The LINQ Promenade

The LINQ Promenade is an open-air hotspot on the Las Vegas Strip that combines shopping, dining, entertainment, and much more. It's a great place to visit for anyone looking to snack, sip, shop—or just take a break from all the casino commotion.

• Address: 3545 Las Vegas Blvd. S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
• Distance from the Strip: Located on the strip.
• Entrance fee: Free to enter; individual attractions come with their own fees.
• Type of activities: Outdoor strolls, dining, street vibes, fun activities, people-watching.
• Pro tip: It seems surprising, but dress in layers when strolling at night: it can get chilly after dark, believe it or not!

Las Vegas Strip

The Las Vegas Strip needs no introduction—this iconic stretch of road is lined with mega-resorts, neon signs, fountains, and people—it's an absolute feast for senses! Even if you aren't planning on gambling, no visit to Las Vegas would be complete without taking a stroll along the iconic, the one and only, Las Vegas Strip.

• Address: Las Vegas Boulevard
• Distance from the Strip: You're on it, baby!
• Entrance fee: Free to walk; costs will depend on what experiences you enjoy.
• Type of activities: Walking, browsing, window shopping, people-watching, free shows, outdoor attractions, photo ops as far as the eye can see.
• Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes; the Las Vegas Strip can feel endless!

Bootleg Canyon Mountain Bike Park

Bootleg Canyon Mountain Bike Park is for anyone looking to leave the city lights and casino buzz behind. Instead, embark on one of our favourite day trips from Las Vegas and head for the hills. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by some seriously fun mountain biking treks, set against the backdrop of picturesque desert and canyon views. Outdoor adventurers, this is a must.

• Address: Bootleg Canyon Rd., Boulder City, NV
• Distance from the Strip: About 45 minutes, depending on the route you take and traffic
• Entrance fee: Free to enter, but equipment rentals may cost
• Type of activities: Mountain biking, hiking, views of Lake Mead and the Las Vegas Valley.
• Pro tip: Locals say the best seasons to visit are spring and early fall so you can avoid the brutal desert heat. Even if you aren't mountain-biking, the panoramic views are well worth the hike.

Water & Adventure Activities in Las Vegas

Desert Off-Roading

Desert off-roading is a welcome idea to travelers looking to swap the lights and sounds of the casino for the roars and whirs of an off-road vehicle. Just outside of the city limits, Las Vegas Elite Offroad books adventures for adrenaline junkies, but there are various other tour operators offering the same type of thrills.

• Address: 6845 Speedway Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89115
• Distance from the Strip: Roughly 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and what tour you opt for.
• Entrance fee: Costs vary by tour, but expect to spend a minimum of $100.
• Type of activities: Guided off-road vehicle tours.
• Pro tip: Locals say the best seasons to visit are spring and early fall so you can avoid the brutal desert heat. Even if you aren't mountain-biking, the panoramic views are well worth the hike.

SlotZilla Zipline at the Fremont Street Experience

SlotZilla Zipline at the Fremont Street Experience lets you zip, zoom, and soar high-above the crowds on downtown's iconic zipline, above the crowds, with the wind at your back. Everybody say wheeee!

• Address: Between 4th Street & Las Vegas Blvd., Downtown Las Vegas, NV (in the Freemont Street Experience).
• Distance from the Strip: About 10-15 minutes by car.
• Entrance fee: Prices vary depending on type of experience you opt for.
• Type of activities: Seated zipline, or “zoomline” across several city blocks.
• Pro tip: You'll want to snap pics but make sure you hold on to your phone tightly!

Vegas Balloon Rides

Vegas Balloon Rides are an extraordinary way to experience the Las Vegas outdoors, all while taking in stunning landscapes. It's quiet up there, a sharp contrast from the hustle and bustle of The Strip.

• Address: Vegas Balloon Rides, 4390 Polaris Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89102
• Distance from the Strip: Roughly 45-60 minutes west of The Strip.
• Entrance fee: ~$359 per person (but that depends)
• Type of activities: Fun, quiet, and scenic activity. Perfect for seeing the city from a rare angle!
• Pro tip: Don't forget your camera (or the champagne!) if you're planning on an epic marriage proposal. We'd say “I do” in the sky!

Wetlands Park (Clark County)

The Wetlands Park in Clark County offers a verdant escape from the neon lights. Folks flock to this part of the state for its many peaceful trails, nature views. If you're looking for a breather from the chaos of Las Vegas nightlife, come unwind here because yes, there are nature walks in Las Vegas, too—it's not all neon lights!

• Address: 7050 Wetlands Park ln., Las Vegas, NV 89122
• Distance from the Strip: About 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Entrance fee: Entry is free.
• Type of activities: Walking, biking, bird-watching, nature center exhibits, outdoor spaces.
• Pro tip: Bring some binoculars if you're into bird-watching: many species inhabit this park.

Emerald Cave

Emerald Cave is the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. A guide (and kayak expert) will lead you along the Colorado River, showing you some of the most breathtaking scenery and curious wildlife the desert offers. You'll even get to explore a glistening emerald cave, named for the vivid green colour the sparkling water becomes.

• Address: Launch from Willow Beach Marina
• Distance from the Strip: About an hour
• Entrance fee: Tour packages start at ~$100
• Type of activities: Kayaking, light hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and guided cave exploration.
• Pro tip: Book an early morning tour for calmer waters and the best chance to see the emerald glow at its brightest.

Lake Las Vegas

Lake Las Vegas is a new development complete with a reservoir that offers calmer waters, ideal for kayaking or paddle-boating (especially if you're a beginner). But this is also a popular destination for lounging beachside. It's a perfect break from the Vegas uproar. We've also put together a list of lakes near Las Vegas if you are looking for more waterside fun.

• Address: 15 Costa Di Lago, Henderson, NV 89011
• Distance from the Strip: Around 20-30 minutes.
• Entrance fee: Rental rates vary.
• Type of activities: Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, electric surfboard or leisurely boat rides on the lake.
• Pro tip: Check wind conditions because the lake can sometimes get quite choppy!

Scenic Drives & Overlook Las Vegas Experiences

Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam is a must-visit destination near Las Vegas. Its proximity to the city, not to mention its dramatic views of the massive structure, makes it well worth the trip. It's a marvel of engineering and a landmark full of history. Make sure your phone battery's charged; you'll want to take pictures here.

• Address: Hoover Dam Access Road, NV SR-172, Boulder City, NV.
• Distance from the Strip: Approximately 30 miles southeast; so, plan for it to take about 40 minutes to get there.
• Entrance fee: About $10 per vehicle.
• Type of activities: Scenic drive, pedestrian walkway over the bridge, overlook platforms, visitor center exhibits.
• Pro tip: Be aware of security checks upon entry!

Mojave Desert

The Mojave Desert is a vast expanse around Las Vegas. It's a desolate and far-reaching terrain that sits under the shade of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

If the desert scenery weren't so breathtaking, you might think it bleak! But the desert enchants with its sweeping views of big skies and the opportunity to appreciate Nevada, and what it looked like long before Las Vegas was built.

• Address: Varies by route.
• Distance from the Strip: Depends on your route, but about 30-60 minutes to reach the deeper parts of the desert.
• Entrance fee: None for driving through, but some fees may apply for national parks or scenic routes.
• Type of activities: Scenic drives, lookout stops on desert vistas.
• Pro tip: Make sure you depart with a full tank. Once you venture off the main roads, you'll be hard-pressed to find services. Bring water with you and plan for changing light: though the sunset is spectacular, it gets pitch black at night. Be on the lookout for wildlife.

The Tank Pool at the Golden Nugget

The Tank Pool is an outdoor experience you won't really have to leave the Strip for. It features a poolside lounge next to an actual shark tank filled with real sharks, and its outdoor “overlook” pool means its views will surely make a splash. Our advice? If you're planning a hang here, just don't watch Jaws on the flight in!

• Address: 129 Fremont Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101
• Distance from the Strip: Around 10-15 minutes via rideshare.
• Entrance fee: Admission or day-pass required.
• Type of activities: Swimming, water slides, lounging, cabanas, pool-deck views.
• Pro tip: Opt for a cabana or day bed if you really want to up the comfort ante!

Las Vegas Family-Friendly Outings

Las Vegas Springs Preserve

The Las Vegas Springs Preserve is 180 acres of outdoor space that everyone is welcome to roam. Here, you'll find educational attractions like a butterfly habitat, botanical garden, and teaching garden. Quaint, peaceful, and a far cry from the buzz of downtown, it makes the perfect thing to do with kids in Vegas.

• Address: 333 S Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89107
• Distance from the Strip: About 4 miles west of the Strip (about 10 minutes in normal traffic)
• Entrance fee: Approx. $18.95 for adults; $10.95 for children.
• Type of activities: Trails, nature walks, botanical gardens, a butterfly habitat, interactive museums and more.
• Pro tip: Arrive early in the day to beat that Vegas heat!

Planning your Las Vegas outdoor activities and adventures

Planning ahead always pays off. Here are a few tips for your outdoor activities in Las Vegas:

• To avoid the desert heat or crowds, plan your outing earlier in the day.
• Book reservations well in advance, especially for timed-entry activities.
• Packing for the desert? Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and more water than you think you'll need.
• Check drive times before you leave!
• Renting a car is always a good idea
• Know your limits: Vegas heat is no joke, and long stretches of hiking or walking can prove difficult when temperatures soar well above 100°F.

FAQs about Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas

What are the best family outdoor activities in Las Vegas?

Red Rock Canyon's easier trails, the Neon Boneyard's outdoor exhibits, and the Las Vegas Springs Preserve are great family-friendly options —kids of all ages will find something they can enjoy!

Which outdoor activities in Las Vegas are suitable for corporate groups?

Planning a work activity in Las Vegas! You're in luck. There are many group-friendly excursions you and the entire team can embark on, including Red Rock Canyon tours and Hoover Dam excursions, or off-roading in the desert. You can also bring your team to a Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas for an unforgettable experience.

What's the best time of year to explore outdoor attractions in Las Vegas?

Fall, winter, and early spring are ideal. Summer is manageable, but only if you head out at sunrise or after sunset. Anytime in between is just too hot!

Are there outdoor activities close to the Las Vegas Strip?

Yes! Seven Magic Mountains, the Neon Boneyard, and the Las Vegas Springs Preserve are all within 20 minutes of the Strip, which is an easy drive in your car rental.

Can I visit outdoor attractions without renting a car?

Absolutely! Many companies offer hotel pick-up services for Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Hoover Dam, and even day-long kayaking trips. Ask your hotel concierge for more information if you're looking to plan an off-Strip outing.

There's lots to see outdoors in Las Vegas

Many people consider Las Vegas a destination for party-goers or gamblers, and it is most famous for its casinos and resorts, but there is more to see than meets the eye! Now that you've read about these outdoor activities happening in Las Vegas off the strip, you can plan your next trip here accordingly.

After a day sweating it out under the sweltering sun, the perfect finale awaits you at the hotel: a Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas. After a day spent enjoying the fresh air, let us do the heavy-lifting: our shows are heart-pounding, awe-inspiring, and non-stop action and excitement. True, it's a different scenery. But it's no less breathtaking.