Cupcake and Cornbread (as well as Cupcake’s sister and her husband, Amanda + Jonathan) recently visited Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada. The park consists of over 40,000 acres and has beautiful red sandstone formations which were formed millions of years ago. This was our (Cupcake and Cornbread) second visit to the park and we hope to go back often!
The park is about 50 miles southeast of Las Vegas, Nevada, making it a popular day trip destination if you need a break from the excitement of Vegas. You can easily explore the park’s hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites. Make sure to visit the visitor center, which offers information about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. Be cautious when hiking and exploring the park, as temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months. There is also a potential to run into a rattlesnake or two, so be prepared!
Amazing Trails!
Mouse’s Tank Trail is a popular hiking trail about .75 miles round trip and is rated as easy to moderate in difficulty. The trail is named after a Southern Paiute Indian named Mouse, who was believed to have used the area to hide from the authorities in the late 1800s. It goes through through some of the park’s most stunning red rock formations and offers incredible views of the surrounding desert landscape.
The Fire Wave Trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip and takes visitors through some of the park’s most stunning red rock formations, culminating in a stunning view of the Fire Wave. The wave is composed of layers of red and white sandstone that have been eroded over millions of years, creating a unique and striking pattern. The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty, with some sections of loose sand and steep inclines.
The White Domes Trail is approximately 1.1 miles round trip and is rated as moderate in difficulty, with some steep inclines and uneven terrain. This trail takes visitors through some awe-inspiring red rock formations. The trail passes through a narrow slot canyon where visitors can see evidence of ancient Native American civilizations. One of the highlights of the trail is a short detour to the site of a movie set from the 1960s, where several Western movies were filmed. Visitors can still see the remains of the set, including a reconstructed cabin and some props from the movies.
All the trails are open year-round but it is best visited in the cooler months, from October to May. Visitors should wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the trail can be hot in the summer.
Our previous trip was in early spring of 2021, so we have yet to experience the heat and intense sun we read so much about. To us, early spring is a perfect time to visit because it’s still cool and there aren’t that many visitors. If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas, take a day and drive out to Valley of Fire State Park and enjoy some nature! Once you experience the beauty of the park you won’t feel so bad about all the money you lost gambling! (haha)
