Things to Do in Las Vegas for Outdoor Adventures: Swap Neon for Nature
When you think of Las Vegas, you probably picture flashing lights, slot machines, and Elvis impersonators. But beyond the glitz and glitter lies an epic outdoor playground that’s just begging to be explored. If you’re planning your Vegas trip and looking for things to do in Las Vegas beyond casinos, this guide is for you.
Here’s your list of unforgettable things to do in Las Vegas—for the adventurer, the nature lover, and anyone who needs a little fresh air between buffets.
🏔️ Red Rock Canyon: Vegas’ Natural Wonder
Just 25 minutes west of the Strip, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a geological wonder that offers a stunning contrast to the city’s neon-lit streets. This 195,000-acre preserve features towering red cliffs, fossilized sand dunes, and 13 miles of scenic driving.
There are more than 30 hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to strenuous climbs. Rock climbers from around the world visit to scale the iconic sandstone walls.
- Best for: Hiking, rock climbing, wildlife watching, scenic drives
- Don’t miss: Calico Tanks Trail—a moderately difficult hike leading to a hidden water pocket and panoramic views of Las Vegas
- Other great hikes: Ice Box Canyon for shaded canyon walls, Turtlehead Peak for a challenging summit, and Moenkopi Loop for a family-friendly desert walk
- Pro tip: The scenic loop opens at 6 a.m. and requires a timed entry pass—book ahead, especially in peak season
- Book a Red Rock Activity Here!
🌿 Valley of Fire: Where Mars Meets Nevada
Located about 45 miles northeast of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park. Its name comes from the blazing red sandstone formations that glow like fire under the sun. Ancient petroglyphs carved by Native Americans add a historical layer to the surreal landscape.
Popular trails like Fire Wave, White Domes, and Mouse’s Tank offer short but visually spectacular hikes through swirling rock formations and narrow slot canyons.
- Best for: Geology buffs, nature photographers, desert hiking
- Don’t miss: Atlatl Rock and its incredible petroglyphs, plus Fire Wave for a mini version of Arizona’s The Wave
- Other great hikes: Rainbow Vista for panoramic views and Elephant Rock Trail for unique formations
- Pro tip: It gets very hot in summer—plan early morning like 5 am, and bring a lot of water.
- Book a Valley of Fire outing here!
🌊 Emerald Cave: A Kayaking Adventure
Nestled along the Colorado River within Black Canyon, Emerald Cave is a small, enchanting grotto known for its vibrant green glow. Accessible only by kayak or paddleboard, this is a tranquil escape into nature.
Tours typically launch from Willow Beach and include wildlife sightings, historical stops, and paddling through crystal-clear waters. The cave is most photogenic between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun hits the water just right.
- Best for: Water lovers, eco-adventurers, small-group excursions
- Don’t miss: Stopping at the Gauging Station ruins and seeing wild bighorn sheep
- Also nearby: Explore Sauna Cave, a warm spring-fed cave just past Emerald Cave on the river trail
- Pro tip: Wear sun-protective gear and bring a dry bag for your phone/camera
- Book an excursion to Emerald Cave Here
🗻 Grand Canyon: The Ultimate Day Trip
One of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world, the Grand Canyon is an awe-inspiring sight worth every mile of the trip. The West Rim, about 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, is home to the famous Skywalk, a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that extends over the canyon’s edge.
You won’t find the vastness of the South Rim here, but you will find incredible views, cultural experiences with the Hualapai Tribe, and adventure options like ziplining.
- Best for: Bucket-list travelers, families, road trippers
- Don’t miss: The Skywalk, Guano Point, and Eagle Point for unbeatable vistas
- More to explore: Hualapai Ranch for Western-style fun, or hike short trails around Guano Point for different canyon perspectives
- Pro tip: Book entrance tickets ahead of time—packages often include transportation and meals
- Book a Grand Canyon trip here
⛰️ Mount Charleston: Snow Near the Strip
Rising to nearly 12,000 feet, Mount Charleston is part of the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area and offers a cool retreat just 45 minutes from the desert heat of Las Vegas. It’s perfect for escaping summer temps or enjoying winter snow.
During warmer months, the mountain is laced with alpine hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds. In winter, head to Lee Canyon for skiing and snowboarding.
- Best for: Seasonal hiking, snow play, forest scenery
- Don’t miss: Cathedral Rock Trail and Mary Jane Falls for shaded, scenic hikes
- Other trails to explore: Bristlecone Trail (great for summer), Trail Canyon to Charleston Peak for seasoned hikers, and Robber’s Roost Trail for a short family-friendly option
- Pro tip: Bring layers—temperatures can drop significantly, even in summer
- Book an adventure to Mount Charleston here
🏞️ Cathedral Gorge State Park: Nevada’s Hidden Gem
A geological treasure located in eastern Nevada near the Utah border, Cathedral Gorge features tall, narrow slot canyons and cathedral-like spires formed from volcanic ash. It’s a quiet, otherworldly destination about 2.5 hours from Las Vegas.
Wander freely through the twisting slot canyons or hike to Miller Point Overlook for panoramic desert views.
- Best for: Solitude seekers, geology nerds, off-the-beaten-path explorers
- Don’t miss: The Cathedral Caves and Miller Point Trail
- Other hikes: Juniper Draw Loop for a longer loop through open canyon areas
- Pro tip: Cell service is limited—download maps ahead of time and bring extra water
- Book an amazing excursion to Cathedral Gorge here
🏞️ Zion National Park: A Bucket-List Hike
Only 2.5 hours away in southwest Utah, Zion National Park is a canyon paradise carved by the Virgin River. Known for its epic trails, Zion is a mecca for serious hikers and casual nature lovers alike.
Famous hikes include Angels Landing (now permit-only), The Narrows (through water), and Emerald Pools. The park shuttle makes navigating easy, and the scenery is nothing short of jaw-dropping.
- Best for: Adventurers, photographers, national park fans
- Don’t miss: Observation Point for fewer crowds and sweeping views
- Other top trails: Canyon Overlook Trail for a quick win, Watchman Trail near the visitor center, and Kolob Canyons area for quieter hikes
- Pro tip: Start early to avoid crowds and bring water shoes for The Narrows
- Book a trip to Zion National Park
💦 Lake Mead: Desert Oasis
As the largest reservoir in the U.S., Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers 750 miles of shoreline for boating, swimming, and sunbathing. Created by the construction of Hoover Dam, it’s a playground for water enthusiasts.
You can also hike the Historic Railroad Trail, explore the Hoover Dam area, or simply relax on the beach.
- Best for: Boating, swimming, fishing, beach days
- Don’t miss: Kayaking near the dam or renting a pontoon for a day on the lake
- Additional hikes: River Mountains Loop Trail (great for biking and views), Owl Canyon Trail for a short scenic hike
- Pro tip: Check weather and water levels before visiting—conditions can change quickly
- Book an exciting day to Lake Mead here
🏜️ Snow Canyon State Park: Underrated Beauty in Utah
Often overshadowed by nearby Zion, Snow Canyon State Park is a hidden gem just outside St. George, Utah—under 2.5 hours from Las Vegas. It features stunning Navajo sandstone cliffs, lava tubes, and petrified sand dunes.
The park has more than 18 miles of trails for all levels, and its calm, uncrowded vibe makes it perfect for a relaxing outdoor escape.
- Best for: Families, photography, low-key hiking
- Don’t miss: Jenny’s Canyon for a kid-friendly slot and Lava Flow Trail for volcanic formations
- Other trails to try: Butterfly Trail, Hidden Pinyon Trail for panoramic views, and Whiterocks Trail for unique formations
- Pro tip: Bring a picnic and plan to stay until sunset—the golden hour here is magic
🌎 Final Thoughts: Trade Slots for Sandstone
You don’t have to choose between city and scenery—Las Vegas gives you both. These outdoor escapes are just a short drive (or flight!) away and offer unforgettable alternatives to traditional Strip attractions.
So next time you’re googling “things to do in Las Vegas,” don’t forget to look beyond the neon. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls (or caves, or canyons), Vegas has a wild side that’s ready to be explored. These are just a few of the unforgettable outdoor things to do in or near Las Vegas that prove the city has something for every kind of adventurer.
Need help planning your outdoor adventure from Vegas? Drop your questions in the comments or check out our guides to day trips, kid-friendly hikes, and road trip itineraries!
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