When people think about Las Vegas, they immediately envision the vivid lights of the Strip, the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign and the mega resorts. But there’s so much more to explore, especially when it comes to outdoor activities. From hiking in scenic canyons and wading down rivers to zooming through the desert by jeep or zipline, your next thrilling escapade awaits.
Best Hiking Trails Near Las Vegas
Grab your hiking boots and trek the stunning trails and panoramic views at Red Rock Canyon, about 25 miles west of the Strip. With over 26 hikes and trails spanning more than 40 miles, there’s a path for every level of hiker. If you prefer horseback riding, designated trails allow you to experience this breathtaking landscape in a unique way. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, just be sure to make a reservation beforehand.
Head north for about an hour to Valley of Fire State Park for a blend of adventure and tranquility. This iconic destination offers campsites, picnic areas and hiking trails that meander through vibrant red sandstone formations. Don’t miss the swirling Fire Wave or curious Elephant Rock sandstone formations, fantastic subjects for photography enthusiasts. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including bighorn sheep and colorful lizards, making it an excellent spot for wildlife observation.
Located a little less than an hour’s drive from the Strip is Mount Charleston Recreation Area. Here, you’ll find year-round outdoor fun, including hiking trails winding through cool alpine forests, while winter visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Lee Canyon. For those seeking a deeper connection to nature, guided hikes and educational programs provide insights into the local ecosystem.
Off-roading and Racing Adventures
Las Vegas offers plenty of ways to get off the beaten path. Book an excursion with Pink Adventure Tours to navigate rugged desert terrain in luxurious all-terrain vehicles. Options include the Red Rock Rocky Gap Off-Road tour or a visit to the Eldorado Ghost Town, blending history and thrill in a four-hour journey.
If you’re craving even more excitement, check out SunBuggy Fun Rentals, where you can drive custom off-road vehicles designed with 360-degree roll cages for safety. With complimentary SunBuggy bandanas to shield you from desert dust, you’ll ride in style while creating lasting memories.
At SPEEDVEGAS, car enthusiasts can push the limits of speed on a 1.3-mile Formula One-inspired racetrack. Choose from exotic supercars like Ferrari, Lamborghini or Porsche, and navigate 10 hair-raising turns and high-speed straightaways for the ultimate driving experience.
Adrenaline Rush Activities
Get your hands dirty at Dig This Vegas, the city’s one-of-a-kind construction playground. Command the controls of full-size excavators, bulldozers and more as you dig, stack and even crush cars. For families, kid-sized excavators allow little ones to join in on the fun. It’s the perfect way to combine excitement with a truly Only Vegas experience.
If you’re looking for exciting outdoor activities in Las Vegas without leaving the pulse of the Strip or Fremont Street, soar to new heights with an exhilarating zipline experience. A terrific addition to the itinerary for anyone looking to make lasting memories with friends and family.
See the city from an exhilarating new angle by soaring above its iconic streets. At The LINQ Promenade + Experience, you’ll find Fly LINQ Zipline, the only zipline on the Strip. Launch from a 12-story tower, zip across over 1,000 feet and land near the High Roller observation wheel—all while reaching speeds of up to 35 mph. Choose your flight style: seated, lying flat, or even backward. With space for up to 10 riders to take off simultaneously, it’s great for groups.
For a downtown twist, head to Fremont Street for SlotZilla Zipline, a high-flying attraction beneath the dazzling Viva Vision canopy with two options: the Zip-Zilla, a seated ride from a 77-foot-high platform, covering 850 feet across Fremont Street, and the Super-Hero Zoom, a pulse-racing flight from an 11-story platform in a prone position, soaring 1,750 feet across five blocks.
Watersports and Sightseeing Cruises
For those seeking aquatic recreation, Las Vegas offers a variety of exciting and tranquil water fun. Dive into a world of memorable experiences just moments away from the Strip.
Take a dip into watersports at Lake Las Vegas, where the serene 320-acre lake offers a wide range of water activities and a full-service marina. Glide across the water in a kayak or test your balance on a stand-up paddleboard. For a more laid-back vibe, rent a Duffy Boat and cruise the sparkling lake. Daredevils can take to the skies with a flyboard or jetpack, or try e-foiling, an electric hydrofoil surfboard that lets you glide effortlessly above the surface.
Just 40 minutes from the Strip, Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a desert oasis with over 750 miles of shoreline. Boating, water-skiing, kayaking and fishing are popular here, with marinas and rentals making it easy to get out on the water. For a leisurely experience, take a 90-minute Hoover Dam sightseeing cruise aboard a paddle-wheeler, complete with breathtaking views and an onboard snack bar.
Whether outdoors or indoors, Las Vegas is a destination packed with adventures for every type of explorer. Be sure to check out the family-friendly sports activities and can't-miss residencies to add to your itinerary—there’s always something exciting to discover. Your next adventure in Las Vegas is just around the corner!