Day Trips from Las Vegas: A day to explore beyond the Strip

Things to Do

Experience these fun yet relaxing day trips from Las Vegas and see what is beyond the glitz, neon lights, entertainment, and nightlife. Anyone who desires a break from all of that noise, energy, and excitement can step into some of the most fabulous, breathtaking experiences Southwestern America offers. The following day trips from Vegas have nature's beauty, landscapes, and vibe that will take your breath away, just so perfectly different from anything Vegas has to offer. From lakes to deserts, covering a wide range of landscapes, each tourist's needs and interests are addressed. You can see the day trips strike the ultimate balance of fun and adventure, all just a few short hours from the excitement of Vegas.

For more attractions and must-visit spots, check out our complete Las Vegas Travel Guide

1. Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

Hoover Dam is an engineering wonder less than an hour from Las Vegas. Still as steady as ever, it appears to be a testament to American ingenuity built during the Great Depression. Visitors can scale its massive concrete form with a dangerously steep bomb down to the gorgeous blue of the Colorado River. The curious minds can take guided tours that share details about the history and construction of this marvellous structure.

Stroll across scenic Lake Mead, which is located right across the dam. It is not only a paramount source of water but also serves as a recreational area. Engage in outdoor activities of your choice, such as boating, swimming, hiking, and fishing, offered at the Lake Mead National Recreational Area for an enriching experience.

Hike through the history of the dam, the Historic Railroad Trail that passes through the previous rail line, which was used at the time of the dam’s construction. Follow a trail of gentle hikes as you soak in the breathtaking views of the lake and also explore the multiple tunnels carved through the rocks.

Things to know about Hoover Dam and Lake Mead:

How to reach: Drive for an hour from Vegas on US-93.
Average time to spend: Allocate 3-4 hours to explore the dam and the lake
Tip: Visit early in the day.

2. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

With tall red sandstone cliffs, miles of desert winds, and endless canyons is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It unfolds the rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert.

Kick off your trip by taking a small drive that covers the conservation area where you can find numerous hiking trails as you take in the scenic beauty of the desert. Calico Tank Trails walks the hikers through the unique rock formations and ends where the travellers can spot the Las Vegas skyline, making it one of the most loved hikes, and for the right reasons.

Anyone who likes taking up adventures and seeks a thrilling experience can hike through the Turtlehead Peak trail with steep climbs, after completing which you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Mojave Desert. Whether you wish to take a light stroll, plan a picnic, or an energetic hike, Red Rock Canyon is your place to be.

Things to know about Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area:

How to reach: Drive for 30 minutes via Charleston Blvd and Red Rock Canyon Rd.
Average time to spend: 2-3 hours to hike
Tip: Visit in spring to spot the vibrant wildflower blooms.

3. Valley of Fire State Park

It is Nevada’s oldest and probably the most visually pleasing state park. It is named so because of its strikingly red Aztec sandstone formations that seem to glow as sunlight hits their surface. The Valley of Fire State Park resembles the landscape of Mars and was formed as a result of slowly shifting sand dunes that collected in the surrounding area over 150 million years ago.

Look for the ancient petroglyphs, tall sandstone formations as you step into this living piece of history. Visitors can explore the Fire Wave Trail, featuring layers of red, white, and pink rocks, making it one of the most iconic trails. Some of the highlights of the place include the Elephant Rock, which can be spotted near the entrance as a giant structure possessing a shape similar to an elephant, and the Atlatl Rock, which the explorers can climb and observe the unique petroglyphs created by the Native American tribes thousands of years ago.

It is an ideal getaway for photographers, hikers, and anyone wanting to experience the desert displaying one-of-a-kind rocks and petroglyphs that give the visitors a peek into the tribal culture and history.

Things to know about Valley of Fire State Park:

How to reach: One hour drive from Vegas via I-5N and NV-169.
Average time to spend: 3-4 hours to explore the desert at ease.
Tip: Visit in spring or autumn to avoid the extensive heat and carry essential supplies like water, since there are no services in the park.

4. Zion National Park

The Zion National Park features some of the most impressive landscapes of Western America. It is popularly known for its emerald blue pools, deep canyons, and dramatic cliffs. Apart from the scenic views at the park, the three-hour drive is also packed with breathtaking views of rock tunnels, thrilling steep zig-zag switchbacks located especially near the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.

Trails such as Canyon Overlook Trail or the Watchman Trail require minimal effort yet lead you to absolutely stunning views. Anyone up for a challenging adventure can hike Angel’s Landing and The Narrows, which are also the park’s most famous hikes. The former, Angel’s Landing, requires steep climbing along a scary ridge, while the latter, The Narrows, features a trail amid canyon walls and through the Virgin River.

Explore the popular towering monoliths such as The Great White Throne, Angels Landing, The West Temple, The Sentinel, and Checkerboard Mesa that have formed as a result of continuous sedimentation, uplift, and erosion. The Zion National Park provides serenity through its historic monoliths in contrast to the vibrant Las Vegas.

Things to know about Zion National Park:

How to reach: A 2-3 hour drive via the I‑15 and UT‑9.
Average time to spend: Two days
Tip: Arrive early, shuttles run seasonally to reduce traffic.

5. Grand Canyon West Rim and Skywalk

The Grand Canyon is something that should be at the top of your itinerary while on your trip to Las Vegas and is even recognised as one of the seven wonders of the world. Though the South Rim is widely popular for its breathtaking views, it is far away to be considered as a day-trip. Nevertheless, the West Rim featuring the beloved Skywalk is just a few hours away and offers an individual set of stunning experiences, leaving behind the South Rim.

The Skywalk is a horseshoe-shaped, clear glass bridge that visitors can walk on being comparable to walking in the sky, observing the Colorado River beneath. It offers the visitors a thrilling experience to walk 4000 feet above the river that flows seamlessly.

Viewpoints such as Eagle Point and Guano Point leave you speechless and are ideal for photographers to take a shot of. The Eagle Point has a naturally occurring rock shaped as an eagle with its wings spread wide. The Guano Point offers a more rugged, raw view of the canyons. One can even spot the remnants of the old tram station that was once utilised for the mining operations being executed, adding a touch of history to the impressive natural wonder.

The Grand Canyon West is operated by the Hualapai Tribe, and the cultural events hosted here provide the visitors with a glimpse of Hualapai customs. For the thrill-seekers, the Grand Canyon offers multiple activities that include ziplining over the canyons, taking a tour of the place in a helicopter, and a boat ride on the Colorado River below. The Grand Canyon is a blend of modern innovation and historic landscapes that you do not want to miss out on.

Things to know about Grand Canyon West Rim and Skywalk:

How to reach: 2-hour drive from Vegas via US‑93 and Diamond Bar Rd.
Average time to spend: 3-4 hours is sufficient to explore the scenery, take a walk on the Skywalk, and cover the popular viewpoints.
Tip: Reserve tickets in advance.