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Surviving and Thriving on Nevada’s Loneliest Road: A Complete Guide to U.S. Highway 50

Greg and Peggy — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 20:11:50 +0000

Between Lake Tahoe in the west and Great Basin National Park on the Utah border, US-50 crosses more than 400 miles of Nevada’s corrugated country, climbing up and over a dozen distinct mountain ranges while passing through four classic mining towns and the state capital, Carson City.

In July of 1986, Life magazine dubbed Nevada’s Highway 50 the “Loneliest Road in America.” The article claimed there were “no points of interest” along the route and “warned” readers not to risk traveling it unless they were confident of their “survival skills.” However, Nevada adventurers knew better then, and still do. A road doesn’t get much more wide-open than Highway 50, but that’s exactly why we love it. Today, this famous Nevada road trip is your gateway to ghost towns, historic mining communities, stunning state parks, and a handful of authentic Sagebrush Saloons.

Travel Nevada, a state-run site, sponsors a promotion where you can earn certificates that say, “I Survived the Loneliest Road in America”. You can go on this website to get your Highway 50 Survival Guide and then get your travel passport stamped along the highway. As you travel along the highway you’ll see road signs, T-shirts, and bumper stickers proclaiming that you’re on the “Loneliest Road”.

This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Day 1: Capital Carson City to Historical Austin

This trip takes you through the more inhabited part of US 50 with lots of small towns and fun adventures. It will fill your day, especially if you take the side trip to Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park. Let’s take a look at this first leg:

Dayton– This is the first stop, which is just east of Carson City. Gold was first found here in 1850 at Gold Canyon. Stop at Odeon Hall, Nevada’s oldest casino building. At Odeon Saloon, Dayton’s oldest watering hole, and you can order a cocktail inspired by notable patrons like Mark Twain and Marilyn Monroe. While here look around for the exact spot where gold was first found at the Chinese Rock Retaining Wall. If you’re a history hound, keen on discovering the Nevada story, then you must stop at Dayton State Park and nearby Fort Churchill State Historic Park, both points along the historic, if short-lived, Pony Express route.

Dayton State Park– At the foot of the Virginia Range, on the banks of the Carson River, Dayton State Park offers picturesque beauty as well as gold and silver mining history. The park features the remains of the Rock Point Mill built in 1861.

Republic of Molossia– This area has quietly been an official, independent, sovereign nation for forty years, and is located right in a Dayton neighborhood. Free, highly whimsical monthly tours are offered from spring through fall (reservations required). Just be sure to leave your incandescent light bulbs, catfish, and onions at home, though as those items are contraband within these borders.

Fort Churchill State Historic Park– About 40 minutes east of Dayton, turn off Highway 50 onto Highway 95A to check out the weathered ruins of Fort Churchill. Today, the crumbling remains of officers’ quarters, barracks, and other structures show Nevada’s frontier past.

Sand Mountain- Courtesy Mark Warren Photography

Sand Mountain -As the road continues, you’ll spot Sand Mountain rising 600 feet above the desert floor and stretches over 2 miles. This huge dune, made from sand carried from prehistoric Lake Lahontan, creates a strange landscape against Nevada’s mountains and valleys. The special friction between sand particles creates the booming sound heard at only 35 similar “singing” dunes around the world. During spring, look for the Sand Mountain blue butterfly which lives here and nowhere else on Earth.

Fallon– Home to the Naval Air Station Fallon (TOPGUN), is the last main town before the road truly earns its “lonely” nickname. Maine Street (spelled this way on purpose since 1908) has many shops, restaurant and The Nugget casino for you to explore. This casino opened 1957 and has its original neon signs. The Oats Park Art Center, originally a 1914 school building, has a 350-seat theater with original oak floors. Churchill County Museum, opened in 1968, shows an intact 1901 Pony Express station moved from nearby Desert Station. Now you’re going to start the real “loneliest” part of this road trip.

Middlegate Station– This is a historic Pony Express stop that has become a popular roadhouse in the middle of nowhere. This rustic place is known for its Monster Burger Challenge where you need to eat a four-pound burger that, when you finish, you will receive a special T-shirt. The walls are covered with dollar bills from travelers over decades. Running continuously since 1857, Middlegate’s original log walls can still be seen in the back section of the building. The bar counter, added in 1926, came from a Virginia City saloon and has over 4,500 carved initials. The stone well, built in 1859, still holds drinkable water from the same mountain spring that supplied Pony Express riders. The station’s guest book, kept since 1924, contains names of notable travelers including former U.S. presidents and famous aviator Charles Lindbergh.

Middlegate Station

Hickison– Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area offers a fascinating look at Nevada’s ancient past. This Bureau of Land Management site has a short half-mile trail leading to rocks with 10,000-year-old Native American art. There’s the “medicine man” figures wearing antler headdresses from about 8,000 BCE. The large circular calendar stone lines up perfectly with the summer solstice, making a shadow right through its center. From the site’s 6,594-foot elevation, you can clearly see both Toiyabe Range and Toquima Range across Reese River Valley, showing why this spot was strategically important to native inhabitants.

Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park– If you want to take a detour this is between Fallon and Austin off US 50, then head to this state park. It’s about 95 miles from Austin. You’re in for a two-fold treat at this remote central Nevada state park you’ll find a real, early 20th century ghost town and 225-million-year-old marine reptile fossils. Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park offers a glimpse into Nevada’s rich silver mining history, as well as the largest known concentration of Ichthyosaur fossils at the site’s fascinating Fossil House. It is open 24/7.

Austin- This is the final stop on the first leg of your trip. Austin once had over 10,000 residents during its Silver Boom. Today, with about 300 residents, this high-desert town keeps its mining heritage through well-kept historic buildings and old mines. The 1863 St. Augustine’s Catholic Church has Nevada’s oldest church organ, dating to 1864 and still working today. The Gridley Store, built in 1863, keeps original wooden shelving where miners bought supplies with raw silver. The International Hotel, first built in 1859 and rebuilt after an 1871 fire, claims to be Nevada’s oldest hotel that’s never closed.

Berlin Ichthyosaur State Park

Day 2: From Lovely Austin to Nature Loving Ely

If you go straight from Austin to Ely, it is 147 miles and you will pass through Eureka, NV. But if you decide to enjoy all the side trips in this area, you may want to consider making it a two-day trip and stay in Eureka. Let’s explore the many adventures you can find on this leg.

Spencer Hot Springs– Before you leave Austin, head over to the hot springs and enjoy a perfect soak. You’ll have three bathing spots available to you at Spencer Hot Springs, brimming with natural spring-fed hot water piped right into the tubs. That means you can control the temperature by moving the water source in and out, heating it to your perfect soak temperature. Two of the spots are man-made pools constructed from metal cattle troughs, AKA cowboy tubs, and the other has a natural soft bottom. While here, keep your eyes and ears peeled for a charming herd of wild burros, the Hickison Burro Herd, who have called Big Smoky their home forever.

Toquima Cave– Nestled in the mountains east of here, take the quick 30-minute drive to Toquima Cave. 1,500 to 3,000 years ago, the Shoshone people used this sacred rock shelter as a temporary dwelling. Very few artifacts were uncovered, though an impressive number of pictographs can be seen covering the cave wall. Toquima Cave is considered to be one of the best examples of pictographs in North America, thanks to the sheer volume of ancient drawings that employ all four colors available at the time: red, black, yellow and white.

Toquima State Park

Eureka– Eureka calls itself “The Friendliest Town on the Loneliest Road in America.” The town appears on the National Register of Historic Places, with many original brick and wood buildings from the 1870s and 1880s still there. The 1880 Eureka Opera House has original hand-painted stage curtains showing local landscapes and the original 1924 Wurlitzer piano still used in shows. The Eureka Sentinel Building, built in 1879, houses the original Washington press that printed the town’s newspaper from 1870-1960. At the Jackson House Hotel, you can see period furniture in each room including four-poster beds with original hardware.

Garnett Hill Recreation Area– Garnet Hill near Ely is located in White Pine County along Highway 50 on a well-maintained dirt road. A “Garnet Hill” BLM marker on the right-hand side of the road will guide you to the recreation and rockhound area. Here you can do your own rockhounding for garnets.

Ely– This marks the easternmost main town on Nevada’s Highway 50, 77 miles east of Eureka. It started as a stagecoach station along the Pony Express Trail; Ely grew quickly after copper was found in 1906. While you’re here take a tour of the six-story Hotel Nevada, built in 1929, was Nevada’s tallest building for 35 years and has original Art Deco elevator cabs still running. The White Pine County Courthouse, built in 1908, has a 16-foot-stained glass skylight made by Tiffany Studios.

Ely, Nevada

Cave Lake State Park– Situated just off the Great Basin Highway, it’s about 15 minutes south of Ely. Cave Lake is perched in the foothills of the Schell Creek Range, part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. At a towering 7,300 feet, this 32-acre Nevada State Park offers outstanding views with amenities and facilities. The main attraction here is of course Cave Lake itself, which provides great swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and tubing in the summer months.

Success Loop Scenic Drive– Located directly off the Loneliest Road in America, about 10 minutes from downtown Ely, this scenic byway brings you through the spectacularly scenic Schell Creek Range. The Scenic Drive lies adjacent to Cave Lake State Park, and depending on how you access this loop, you can begin or end your journey at the park. On this easy, 40-mile drive, visitors will wind their way up into high desert landscapes that this part of The Great Basin is known for. Here, you will find incredible mountain views and aspens exploding with color.

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park

Grand Finale- Two Scenic Stops

Ward Charcoal Ovens– Just south of Highway 50 near Ely, the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park protects six huge beehive-shaped structures that remain as monuments to Nevada’s mining past. Built in 1876, these 30-foot-tall stone ovens made charcoal for the nearby silver smelters in the mining district. Each oven used exactly 35 cords of wood during a 12-day burning cycle, making 1,750 bushels of charcoal. Once the mining ended, the ovens were used to shelter travelers and even had a reputation as a hideout for stagecoach bandits. The ovens remain today and are open for touring.

Great Basin National Park– Likely because of its remoteness, Great Basin National Park is one of America’s least visited. It’s great if you like less crowds, but it’s sad more people don’t get here to see how beautiful it is. Great Basin has alpine lakes, ancient bristlecone pine forests, lots of wildlife, and the impressive 13,064-foot Wheeler Peak. The park’s underground wonder, Lehman Caves, offers guided tours through a large marble cave system filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and over 300 rare shield formations. Teresa Lake, at 10,280 feet elevation, contains a unique alpine ecosystem with rare Tiger salamanders. From Wheeler Peak’s summit, you can see across four states on clear days with visibility over 100 miles. You can get to the summit via the 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive.

Road-Trip Prep & Survival Tips

Fuel discipline – Top off anytime you’re below ½ tank. Distances between pumps can hit 100 miles.

Real spare tire – Cell service is patchy; a donut won’t cut it.

Layers – 100 °F desert afternoons can drop to 40 °F at 7,000 ft.

Paper maps – Grab the free Highway 50 Survival Guide or a Benchmark atlas.

Night-drive caution – Wild mustangs, elk, and the occasional wandering cow love asphalt after dark.

Final Thoughts

Calling US-50 the “Loneliest Road in America” is like calling the Grand Canyon a ditch, technically true, wildly misleading. This ribbon of pavement is an open-air museum of Wild West history, a playground for hot-spring hunters, and a stargazer’s red-carpet runway. Bring curiosity, a full tank, and maybe a sense of humor. You’ll leave with dusty boots, a fresh roll of camera snaps, and bragging rights stamped in your passport. Happy Trails!

We always want to give you information and tips we learn along the way to help you make planning your vacation easier. If you’re looking for ideas for a road trip, roadtrippers.com is really helpful. Use code BTR5QTP for $5 off. We hope to inspire you to find your own adventure, get out, have fun and make some wonderful memories.

The post Surviving and Thriving on Nevada’s Loneliest Road: A Complete Guide to U.S. Highway 50 appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

Grand Canyon Trip Guide: Everything You Need to Know for an Unforgettable Adventure

Greg and Peggy — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 21:18:31 +0000

Standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon is one of those pinch-me travel moments—where nature’s scale, color, and silence steal the show. Whether you’re here for a day trip or planning a multi-day adventure, the Grand Canyon offers something for every kind of traveler: epic hikes, breathtaking viewpoints, ranger programs, condor sightings, and even gourmet meals perched right on the rim. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through how to get there, when to visit, which rim to choose, what to see and do, and where to stay, so you can make the most of your bucket-list-worthy journey to one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S.

** Updates regarding reopening of North Rim in 2026 from NPS:

North Rim Status Update – CLOSED until May 15, 2026

The North Rim will reopen at 6 a.m. on May 15,2026. The entire North Kaibab Trail will reopen to foot traffic only and all paved roads within the park will open. Cottonwood Campground will reopen but North Rim Campground will not open until a later date. For more information, visit NPS website.

How Do I Get to the Grand Canyon?

Whether you’re planning to fly or drive, here’s the lowdown on how to get to one of America’s greatest natural wonders.

Closest Airports

Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) – 3.5 hours to the South Rim, 6 hours to the North Rim

Las Vegas McCarran/Las Vegas (LAS) – 4.5 hours to the South Rim, 5.5 hours to the North Rim

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) – Only 1.5 hours from the South Rim; shuttle service available. This is a small airport so there will not be as many flight options available.

Driving Distances at a Glance

Phoenix (PHX )to South Rim: 3.5 hours,

Las Vegas (LAS) to South Rim: 4.5 hours

Flagstaff (FLG) to South Rim: 1.5 hours

Add roughly 2.5–3 hours more for North Rim access.

How Do I Get Around the Park?

South Rim Shuttle Buses

During peak months, driving is limited, and parking fills up fast. Your best bet? Park at the visitor center and hop on the free shuttle buses that take you to major viewpoints and trailheads.

Grand Canyon Railway

For a unique experience, board the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, AZ. This 2-hour scenic ride brings you directly to the South Rim in style—with multiple service levels to fit your budget.

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

Spring & Fall: Ideal weather and fewer crowds. Keep in mind that the mornings can get chilly, so pack appropriately.

Summer: Hot and busy (temps can top 100°F at the bottom of the canyon). This is the busiest season.

Winter: Quieter and much less crowded. Keep in mind the North Rim is closed mid-Oct to mid-May due to snow.

*Pro Tip: Avoid the 10am–4pm rush. Arrive early or explore in the evening.

Which Rim Should I Visit?

Grand Canyon National Park is divided into two main regions: the South Rim and the North Rim, with a 200-mile, 4-hour drive between them. Additionally, there are vista points and activities available at Grand Canyon West and East, although these are outside the national park boundaries.

South Rim – Open year-round, most popular, loaded with amenities and the main visitor center. Perfect for first-timers.

North Rim – Remote, peaceful, and only open mid-May to mid-October. Fewer crowds and different perspectives. The North Rim suffered a devastating fire in 2025. It will take time to reopen all of the North Rim trails, etc. Check blog often for updates.

West Rim (Grand Canyon West) – The West Rim is on Hualapai Indian Reservation land. This is where the famous Skywalk is located: a glass-paneled, horseshoe-shaped walk that dramatically extends out over the canyon. General admission tickets must be purchased to visit Grand Canyon West, with add-on fees for the Skywalk and other activities.

East Rim – The East Rim is technically inside the national park at the Desert View area, with the Grand Canyon East entrance about a 36-mile drive from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. However, “Grand Canyon East” often refers to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon near Page, AZ—about 3 hours from the South Rim.

What About Havasupai Falls?

That jaw-dropping turquoise waterfall? It’s inside the canyon but on Havasupai Tribal Lands. You’ll need a permit, an overnight reservation, and a whole lot of advance planning. These permits are very limited and in high demand.

California Condor

Top Attractions & Activities

Start at the Visitor Center – Pick up maps, chat with rangers, and watch the 20-minute park film.

Mather Point – Your first epic canyon view this is outside of the Visitor Center.

Grand Canyon Village – Walk around the Grand Canyon Village Historic District: This is the main area for dining, shopping, shuttle buses, and the Bright Angel Trailhead. Don’t miss out on exploring the beautiful historic buildings from the early 20th century, including El Tovar hotel, the Lookout Studio, the Hopi House, and the Railway Depot. Take time to view the historical interiors and learn about the history of humans in the Grand Canyon, from Ancestral Puebloans to pioneering photographers. This is a really great place especially if you enjoy history. We really enjoyed looking around.

Hermit Road Shuttle Route – Take the shuttle bus to Hermits Rest. This 7-mile-long Hermit Road includes nine overlooks that are easily accessible by hopping off and back on the frequent shuttle buses. Highlights include Hopi, Maricopa, and Pima points. Spend some time at Hermits Rest to explore the historic building and enjoy a refreshment before returning to the Village.

*Pro Tip: The Trailview Overlook and Maricopa Point are just half a mile from Bright Angel Trailhead in the village. A fun and safe way to get a taste of the famous Bright Angel Trail, is to walk it from the Bright Angel Trailhead to Kolb Studio, where it connects again with the Rim Trail. The Rim Trail has lots of panoramic views. Trailview Overlook is one if the overlooks for the Hermits Rest shuttle.

Attend a ranger program: Free ranger-led programs are offered throughout the day and are an engaging way to learn about the history, geology, and animals of the Grand Canyon.

Learn about the California Condors– Grand Canyon has a Condor Management program to help the condor population recover. They were close to extinct at one time and now are starting to thrive again. If you’re lucky, you’ll see them flying above the canyon. We got to see some, but they were pretty far away when we saw them.

Visit the Yavapai Geology Museum – Learn about the canyon’s epic rock layers with a spectacular view in the background. Walk the Rim Trail between Yavapai Point and Verkamp’s Visitor Center in the Historic District (1.4 miles), taking in the Trail of Time exhibits along the way to the museum.

Drive to the Desert View Watchtower – Iconic structure designed by Mary Colter. Climbing to the incredible observation room at the top will allow you to see up to 100 miles into the horizon. Located over 30 miles from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Desert View is a great pit stop on your drive in or out of the park through the East Entrance.

Watch the sunrise or sunset: Either one is a must-see at the Grand Canyon. The best spots for sunrise viewing and photography are at Mather Point and Yavapai Point. Sunset is great from both spots, plus Hopi Point. Predawn temperatures can be cold, so be sure to dress warmly for sunrise, even in summer.

Enjoy the scenery with a hike– Short trails like Shoshone Point and Ooh Aah Point are great for casual hikers. There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails in the canyon. Be sure to check the NPS website for more information about the trails to plan your hikes that best fit your hiking skills.

Take a Mule Ride – An iconic mule ride down to the canyon floor is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, however, this is only offered as part of an overnight package and sells out months in advance. You can still experience time in the saddle on a 2-hour Canyon Vista Trail ride along the rim. If a mule ride is a must for your Grand Canyon experience, the North Rim offers additional options, including a half-day ride that descends into the canyon. Looks a little scary to me!

Raft the Colorado: If you are looking to raft on the Colorado through the park, there are different river trip opportunities through Grand Canyon National Park. There are non-commercial and commercial trips lasting from a day to a month. Some need booked years in advance. See the NPS website for more information.

Lodging Options: Where to Stay

South Rim: Lodging

There are several hotels at the South Rim, although reservations should be made far in advance for the peak season.

El Tovar Hotel: Built in 1903, this is the most upscale lodging option within the park. It’s located right on the rim, directly next to the Grand Canyon Railway Depot. If you’re looking for the ultimate national park lodge experience, El Tovar is worth the splurge.

Bright Angel Lodge: Equally historic and unique is Bright Angel Lodge, which offers a range of room types from cozy units with a shared bath to historic cabins. Some rooms have canyon views.

Yavapai Lodge: Yavapai Lodge is a great midrange option conveniently located at Market Center, next to the general store and midway between the visitor center and the historic district.

Camping: The South Rim has four campgrounds, two are seasonal.

North Rim Lodging

Accommodations at the North Rim are limited to two campgrounds that may not be open the 2026 season. These fill up fast, so reservations are highly recommended, and keep in mind they are open only from mid-May to mid-October.

Phantom Ranch

Located at the canyon floor, this is accessible by hiking, rafting or mule ride and requires reservations in advance which are made by lottery. Be sure you read all the restrictions before trying to get reservations.

*Pro Tip: Book lodging at least 6 months in advance, more if visiting in summer.

Where to Eat

Bright Angel Lodge – Quick bites, wraps, sandwiches. We had lunch here and it was really good!

El Tovar Dining Room – Upscale dining with canyon views (reservations highly recommended).

Food Trucks – Great for fast, fresh eats near the Village.

Market Plaza General Store – Great stop for picnic supplies and grab-and-go sandwiches. If you’re camping this is a great place to get food supplies.

Tips for the Best Experience

-Start your day early or stay late to dodge the crowds. The first time I went, we were on a bus tour and there were so many people there that it took a while to make our way up to the fence to see the views.

-Download the NPS mobile app for maps and offline access. It will also give you information about sunrise and sunset times.

-Water, water, water! Hydration is key in the dry desert air. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

-Wear good shoes – Closed-toed with solid tread. Make sure that you know they are comfortable because even if you only walk a little, you don’t want your feet to hurt.

-Stay on the trail – Help protect the fragile ecosystem and stay safe. Respect when areas are closed off and stay away. There is a reason they don’t want you there. Don’t risk your life to get closer to the edge.

-Cell service is limited – Bring a map and buddy up

-Follow Leave No Trace – Respect this natural wonder. For more information about Leave No Trace, visit our website.

Final Thoughts

The Grand Canyon is more than just a bucket list destination—it’s a place of awe, adventure, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re hiking, photographing the sunrise, riding a mule, or simply soaking in the views, there’s something here for everyone.

We want to pass on tips and information we learn along the way to help you plan your perfect trip. I’ve been to Grand Canyon twice and still haven’t seen everything I want to. It is an amazing place that you just can’t fathom until you see it. If you ever need help planning a road trip, go to roadtrippers.com to help plan a great trip! Use code BTR5QTP to save $5. We hope to encourage you to find your adventure. So, pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready for a trip you’ll talk about for the rest of your life.

The post Grand Canyon Trip Guide: Everything You Need to Know for an Unforgettable Adventure appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

Preserve the Wild: A Simple Guide to Leave No Trace for Every Outdoor Adventure

Greg and Peggy — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 23:53:45 +0000

If you’ve ever been told to “Leave No Trace” but weren’t quite sure what it actually meant, don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s more than just a catchy slogan slapped on signs and park brochures. Leave No Trace is a powerful framework designed to protect the wild places we love to explore. In short, it’s the trail etiquette Mother Nature wishes everyone followed.

Existing Campsite

What is it all about?

There are 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. These principles help us understand the potential ways we can impact an ecosystem and the best way to minimize that impact.

Before we get into what the principles of Leave No Trace are, let’s cover what Leave No Trace is.

-It’s not about rules and regulations. If you don’t use these guidelines, you won’t get a fine or anything, but you will probably hurt the environment and wildlife.

-There is no right vs. wrong. The suggestions are ways to help keep the world natural, without disturbing it. If you don’t follow everything exactly, that’s ok, just do what you think is right.

-Leave No Trace is not black and white. An example is if you are listening to music at your campsite and you believe it is turned low, but your neighbor thinks it’s too loud. This is one of those things that have to be worked out between the two of you, there’s no clear-cut answer of what it right. The important thing about leaving no trace is to use good judgement and do what feels right to you.

With that said, Leave No Trace is more than a set of guidelines. It is a state of mind and a way of respecting our surroundings and others.

How to Follow the 7 Principles

There are 7 Principles of Leave No Trace and they are all pretty much common sense. The principles and techniques vary depending on the activity you’re partaking in, the environment you’re in, and how many people you have in your group. These principles apply to anytime you are enjoying the outdoor environment, whether in a national park or local playground. Let’s see what they’re all about:

1.Plan Ahead and Prepare

Strategic planning and preparation are essential for a pleasant trip into the wilderness. By following these tips and investigating the area you will be exploring you should be set for a splendid adventure!

-Know the regulations. For example, what are the fire regulations, is a permit required for any activities you want to do, what wildlife lives in the area, what food storage is needed, etc.

-Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies. Check the weather forecast so you can pack and prepare for extreme and unexpected weather.

-Be aware of hazards like flash floods. These can easily happen in the desert with a heavy rain Have an emergency plan, know what you are going to do if someone gets hurt or lost.

Compass

-Use a map and compass or GPS. Eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging. Make sure you properly know how to use these.

-Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use. Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups.

-Repackage your food to minimize potential waste. For example, leave the outer box that your snack packs come in at home. This not only saves space but is less waste to deal with.

-Double check that you have everything you need. Check you have everything needed to have fun and a safe time. It’s always a good idea to let someone know where you’re going, when you plan on coming back, and what to do if you don’t get back on time.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

-The general rule here is if a trail or campsite exists – stick to it. If a trail or campsite does not exist, do your best not to create one. The purpose of this is to help avoid creating new scars on untouched areas and trampling on vegetation. Durable surfaces include maintained trails and designated campsites, rock, gravel, sand, dry grass or snow.

-Protect water source areas. Make your campsite at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.

-Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary. If there isn’t a site, continue until you find one. Don’t make a new site.

In popular areas:

-Concentrate your use on existing trails and campsites. You want to keep unused areas natural.

-Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy. That’s why you got waterproof hiking boots, right?

-Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent. Use fire rings when possible.

Fire Ring

In pristine areas:

-Disperse use so that you are not creating trails or sites where one did not previously exist.

-Stick to durable surfaces like rock, sand, gravel, and dry grass.

-Avoid fragile surfaces like vegetation and riparian zones (that’s the area near a water source).

-Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.

-When you leave, it should look as if you were never there!

-Protect water sources by camping 200 feet away from water.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

-Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite, food preparation areas, and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food and litter. This means pack out everything including food scraps, pieces of paper, toilet paper, hygiene products, etc.

-Utilize toilet facilities whenever possible. Otherwise, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.

-Wash your dishes correctly. To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

4. Leave What You Find

This one’s easy. Did you see something cool? Take a picture and move on. Leave what you find behind so the next person can enjoy it too. In fact, in some places it’s illegal to remove natural objects. Don’t move anything in nature. Mother Nature put it there for a reason. If it’s in the middle of a path, walk around it. Leave all rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.

-Preserve the past: examine, photograph, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts. This one is really important. The oil on our skin can ruin rock art, if you pick something up to look closer it may break because it’s fragile. Have respect for these objects.

Grapevine Canyon

–Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.

Here are a couple more tips to help you minimize your impact:

-Don’t pick wildflowers, collect any natural items such as shells or rocks. If everyone picked a few flowers on every trip the collective impact would be substantial.

-Don’t cut branches off trees, hack into them, or hammer nails into them to hang things.

-Don’t carve your initials into trees or draw on rocks

This Leave No Trace principle also reminds us to leave areas as we found them. When setting up camp, minimize site alterations and avoid damaging plants. Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

-Campfires can cause lasting impacts on the environment. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle or battery-operated lantern for light instead of a kerosene lantern.

-Only make fires where permitted. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.

–Keep fires small. Only use down and dead wood from the ground that can be broken by hand.

–Assess the situation. Only have a fire if you feel like you have the skills to keep it under control. Keep your fires small, in control, and never leave them unattended.

-Burn all wood and coal until it is ash. Put out campfires completely, splash water on after it’s done burning, then scatter cool ashes. Don’t throw trash in the fire where remnants will remain.

Big Horn Sheep

6. Respect Wildlife

–Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them. Keep a far distance away from them when trying to take a picture. They are wild and if you get too near, they will probably hurt you. Never try to touch them and whatever you do, don’t go near the younger animals. I’m sure you’ve heard of a mama bear protecting her young? Well, all mama animals fiercely protect their young.

–Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors and exposes them to predators and other dangers.

–Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.

–Always control your pets or leave them at home. Best practice is to keep your pet on a leash even if they are well behaved. You never know when they may take off if they see another animal.

–Avoid wildlife during sensitive times. It’s best not to be near wildlife during mating or nesting season, when they are raising young, or during winter.

Grand Canyon – Natural Beauty

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Think about how your actions affect those around you and be considerate. Most people go out in nature to find peace so keep that in mind and be respectful. Think Golden Rule.

Here are some tips to help:

–Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail. Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering others.

-Take breaks away from trails and other visitors. Same for when you camp for the night, give space to others near you.

-Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises. If you want to listen to music, keep it low or use an earbud, but don’t get distracted from what’s going on around you.

–Leave gates as you find them; either open or closed! This has become an internationally recognized rule of courtesy. This can be especially important in areas where livestock animals are present.

These principles were established by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, and built on work by the US Forest Service, National Park Service, and Bureau of Land Management in the mid-1980s. This relationship continues today.

Final Thoughts

That’s all there is to it. These are pretty easy, right? Leave No Trace isn’t about perfection, it’s about intention. These are simple things that we can all do to minimize our impact and help preserve the health of our wild places. As you can see, they are mostly common sense and will help keep our outdoor treasures beautiful. These are not black and white, straightforward rules, but easy ways for us to protect our environment for many, many years to come. These seven principles are easy to follow, adaptable to any outdoor setting, and rooted in respect. Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry hiker or just enjoying your local park, your actions matter. So let’s commit to treading lightly, adventuring responsibly, and leaving the wild just as we found it, untouched, unspoiled, and ready to inspire the next explorer.

The post Preserve the Wild: A Simple Guide to Leave No Trace for Every Outdoor Adventure appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

Escape the Strip: A Day at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Greg and Peggy — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 19:23:18 +0000

When the neon buzz of Las Vegas starts to fade and you’re craving a dose of nature’s drama, Red Rock Canyon is your golden ticket. Just 25 minutes west of the Strip, this stunning conservation area feels like a world away—think towering red sandstone cliffs, twisting canyons, and wide-open desert views that make you forget slot machines ever existed.

Why Visit Red Rock Canyon?

Red Rock isn’t just a backdrop, it’s an experience. Whether you’re into scenic drives, epic hikes, or just want a jaw-dropping photo -op to make your friends back home jealous, this place delivers. The 13-mile Scenic Drive is a showstopper, winding through vibrant rock formations that practically glow at sunrise and sunset.

*Pro Tip: Before starting your journey, stop at the Visitor’s center for maps, information and some history of Red Rock Canyon and great views. You can also fill up on water and take a restroom break. These are the only ones in the canyon.

Things to Do

Take in the Scenic Drive

Starting at the Visitor Center cruise the one-way 13-mile loop to see the canyon. It’s important to remember, though, that the Scenic Drive is a one-way route. I recommend stopping whenever an overlook or trailhead piques your interest. Personally, I would stop at all of them so as not to miss anything. If you do miss a point of interest, you’ll have to catch it on a second pass through the area. There are designated pullouts and parking areas at major trailheads. Go early to beat the heat and the crowds, this is Vegas, after all.

Check Out the Red Rock Scenic Overlook

There are many great pullouts and overlooks along the Red Rock Scenic Drive and even Blue Diamond Road, but the best is the Red Rock Scenic Overlook. This overlook gives you a full view of the mountain range and the Keystone Thrust. The Keystone Thrust is a unique tectonic formation that makes the rocky cliffs look like rainbows.

Biking

Bicycling in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area can be an enjoyable way to see the local flora and fauna. Bicycles are allowed on the one-way Scenic Drive, paved spur roads, and designated mountain bike trails. Bikes are not allowed on designated hiking trails.

Hiking Trails

There are 26 numbered trails and hikes, most of the trails are between 1 mile and 7 miles round trip. These trails are typically lower in elevation and well-marked. Whether you’re in sneakers or hiking boots, there’s a trail for you. Here are some of the most popular trails:

Calico Tanks – Moderate- Strenuous, 2.2 miles roundtrip. This scurry over jumbled sandstone leads to a hidden water pocket and a great view of Las Vegas.

Ice Box Canyon – Strenuous, 2.3 miles roundtrip. A shady, rocky scramble with hidden waterfalls in the cooler months. As the name implies, Ice Box Canyon is known for its cool shade, as the canyon rarely sees sunlight. With a strenuous rating, the Ice Box Canyon Trail is not for the faint of heart. It rises steeply from the trailhead off the Scenic Drive, and the trail surface consists mostly of rock.

Moenkopi Loop – Easy 2-mile loop. Triassic fossils and various desert flora can be seen on this open country trail which starts at the visitor center and traverses a prominent limestone ridge.

La Madre Spring– Moderate, 3.6 miles. This nice hike follows an old road up a canyon with red and white sandstone cliffs on one side and gray limestone mountains on the other. The trail takes you to La Madre Spring where you’ll see water for wildlife, you may even see some burros.

*Pro Tip: Remember that all wildlife in Red Rock Canyon is just that, wild. Do not get close to them or feed them.

Lost Creek– Children’s Discovery- Easy to Moderate 0.80 miles trail. This trail introduces visitors to the many different features of the Mojave Desert, including pictographs, lessons of desert life, towering views, and a hidden seasonal waterfall (December-April) in the canyon.

Hiking in Red Rock Canyon brings you right up close to all the beautiful mountains. What’s so great about the area is that hiking trails aren’t too strenuous (unless you’re heading to a climbing area or scrambling a peak). Visit the website for maps and information about all 26 trails. There are Georeferenced GPS maps available for these hikes. Click here to get them.

See the Petroglyphs

It is a 0.20-mile easy walk from the Willow Springs Picnic Area gives you a glimpse back into time. The Mojave (and conservation area) is home to the Paiute people, who, like many of the advanced civilizations that existed here before settlers came, carved their stories into rocks. You can see examples of real Paiute petroglyphs at Willow Springs. It’s well worth a visit to check out this moment in history. Rock art dates back at least 800 years, with signs of human settlement found in the area dating up to 10,000 years ago. Look for the start of this trail in the Willow Springs Picnic Area parking lot (on the opposite side of the road from the picnic benches).

*Pro Tip: When visiting any National or State Park follow the Leave No Trace principle. This means stay on the trails, leave nothing behind, don’t touch or move anything (this is especially true of ancient art and architecture) and respect the rules of the park.

Rock Climbing

Red Rock is a mecca for climbers, drawing in both beginners and daredevils. Even if you don’t climb, it’s a blast to watch them scale those vertical red walls like desert ninjas. If you have never climbed at Red Rock Canyon and are unfamiliar with route locations, a climbing guide is available with photos, route descriptions, and directions to provide you with a brief idea of where to find established traditional and sport routes.

Where to Stay Near Red Rock Canyon

Planning to spend more than a day exploring the beauty of Red Rock Canyon? Whether you’re escaping the buzz of the Strip or staying outside of Las Vegas entirely, here are a couple of solid options close to the park:

Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa

Just minutes from the canyon, this upscale resort is the perfect basecamp for a little desert luxury. Red Rock Casino offers spacious, modern rooms, stunning views of the sandstone cliffs, and a full lineup of restaurants, bars, and amenities, including a relaxing spa and, of course, a lively casino floor if you’re feeling lucky after a day on the trails. Whether you’re here for a night or a weekend escape, it’s got everything you need to unwind in style.

Red Rock Canyon Campground

For a more rugged, under-the-stars experience, head to the Red Rock Canyon Campground, located about two miles east of the Visitor Center on West Charleston Boulevard. It’s a no-frills, primitive campground (think: no hookups or showers), but it’s a great choice for those wanting to stay close to nature. Just keep in mind, there’s no camping inside the Conservation Area itself, and this site is typically closed during the hot summer months, from Memorial Day through September 1.

While there are other hotel and resort options in the greater Summerlin and west Las Vegas area, these two are the closest to the canyon and offer completely different vibes, depending on how you like to recharge after an adventure.

Insider Tips

-Entrance Fee: $20 per vehicle (or free with an America the Beautiful pass).

*Timed entry reservations are required for the Scenic Drive between October 1 – May 31 for entry between 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

-Hours: Open daily; hours vary by season (usually 6am–sunset).

-Best Time to Go: Fall through spring. Summer is scorching unless you’re part lizard.

-What to Bring: Water (seriously, bring lots), sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and your camera. Cell service is spotty, so screenshot trail maps if you need them. You can download and print the map from this site. Remember that the desert is a dry heat, so you will dehydrate much quicker so drink lots of water even if you’re not doing lots of activities in the canyon.

For more information to help you plan your trip check the BLM website and the Red Rock Canyon website

A Different Kind of Vegas Thrill

Red Rock Canyon is the perfect palate cleanser between nights on the Strip. It’s where you trade cocktails for canyons, sequins for sandstone, and take home a different kind of Vegas memory, one that smells like creosote bush and feels like wind on your face. Nothing beats the beautiful Red Rock formations!

We want to give you the information and tips that we learn along the way to help you plan your perfect vacation. We hope to encourage you to find your adventure, have fun and make lots of memories!

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