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Sunday, February 3, 2013

Natural Landmarks in Las Vegas

By Ariel Moore


When visiting Vegas the majority of people think about gambling casinos, dance shows, and big buffets, but there are some fascinating natural landmarks in Las Vegas and the surrounding area. It might take a little driving to get to them, however it is definitely worth the expedition to see one of those Las Vegas natural landmarks.

Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is located 20 miles outside of Vegas. It has got a glorious interpretive center with information about animal life, fauna, geology and cultural resources. You can sign up to interpretive walks or take a short hike alone. There's also a 13 miles scenic drive thru the area. The interpretive center has a bunch of hands on activities for children.

Valley of Fire

Valley of Fire is situated 55 miles outside of Vegas and is the oldest and biggest state park in Nevada. The highlight of this park is its red sandstone formations against the stark contrast of the Mojave Desert. While visiting you can see petrified wood and ancient petroglyphs. There are a few opportunities for camping, hiking, and picnicking across the park. Be aware of elevated temperatures in the summertime months and plan ahead.

Lake Meade National Recreational Area

This park is known for having different types of animals that live in the desert area and plants. Also, the Lake area can give you the opportunity to practice different activities, such as swimming, hiking and sailing. Lake Meade also offers miles of paved roads for roadside sightseers with an expanse of viewpoints including canyons, mountains, cacti and plateaus. The park is visitor friendly and has one or two visitors centers offering a lot of info regarding things worth doing when visiting the park.

Highland Range Crucial Bighorn Habitat Area

The Highland Range Crucial Bighorn Habitat Area was set aside to help the growth of Bighorn Sheep in the area. It isn't open to the common public but US 95 runs along the eastern flank of the area and can offer possibilities for wildlife viewing of Bighorn Sheep.

Mojave National Preserve

The Mojave National Preserve is another great national park found just outside of Vegas incorporating 1.6 million acres. It is a big area with sand dunes, desert wild flowers, volcanic cones and Joshua Tree forests. If you visit you can explore deserted mines, homesteads and army outposts. The Mojave has a decent range of hiking, photography and sightseeing opportunities.

Mount Charleston

If you are looking for a plcae outside of the las Vegas lights and crowd, the Mount Charleston is the perfect area to go. Very often the temperature of the mountain is between thirty and forty degree below Vegas temperatures, making this landmark the top location to run away and explore the nature. Mount Charleston offers over 52 miles of hiking trails in a variety of lengths and difficulty with lots of wildlife like burros, deer, tortoises and songbirds.

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is the most well know aof the National Parks found outside of Vegas and it's further away requiring a day trip to go visit and a night stay to literally see the park in all of its glory. The Grand Canyon offers surprising view, photography opportunities, hiking, animal life viewing, camping, lodging and a selection of interpretive opportunities. It has 1 or 2 visitor areas that are well staffed and can answer any and all questions on recreational opportunities withing the park.




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