Rating | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
Overall Difficulty | Easy |
Navigation Difficulty | Easy |
Distance | 0.1 miles roundtrip |
Time | 15 minutes |
Terrain | Mostly flat |
Best Seasons | Spring, Fall, Winter |
Family Friendly | Yes |
Dog Friendly | Yes |
Accessible | No |
Highlights
- Interesting geologic formations
- Beautiful desert scenery
Hike Summary
An hour outside of Las Vegas, you'll find the fantastically scenic Valley of Fire State Park. For a quick taste of what this beautiful desert has to offer, you can try the super short Balancing Rock Trail right by the visitor center. This hike will certainly get you warmed up and ready for more adventure on the other great trails in the park!
The trail begins on the west end of the upper parking lot near the visitor center. The gravel trail is well-marked and lined with rocks, as pictured below. If you look closely, you can see Balancing Rock in the distance below the massive sloping rock in the background.
Important Information
Dogs are allowed on leash. This short hike adjacent to the visitor center is great for kids and families, allowing you to see the famous rock formations up close without having to trek far into the desert. Summer temperatures are oppressively hot, usually rising above 100 degrees, so avoid visiting this park that time of year. Weather is mild the remainder of the year, but remember to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing. Despite being adjacent to the visitor center, this trail isn't particularly busy due to a quick turnover time.
Directions
From Las Vegas, take Interstate 15 north. In about half an hour, take the exit for Valley of Fire Highway, which should have a brown sign for Valley of Fire State Park. Stay right to continue on Valley of Fire Highway. Continue straight, then pay the fee at the entrance station. A while past the entrance station, look for signs for the visitor center, then turn left and immediately right.
Google Maps Directions
Parking, Fees, and Facilities
The entrance fee to Valley of Fire State Park is $10 per vehicle per day. Annual State Parks passes are also available for $75. The visitor center has flush toilets, water, educational exhibits, a gift shop, and a staffed information desk.
Nearby Hikes
Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Arizona
★★★★★(5/5)
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada
★★★★☆(4/5)
Cathedral Gorge State Park, Nevada
★★★★★(5/5)