Backpacking near Las Vegas

Hi out there-

I am new to this area. My two boys (9 & 14) are coming to visit me for spring break. I would like to take them on an ovenight trip. No idea where to go? I am from Utah & have done a fair amount there. What about day hikes geared towards kids? Thanks, Jari

Zion is not that far away.

Valley of Fire State Park. I don't know much about it, but it's 55 miles from Vegas, has lots of cool redrock formations, and seems to have a lot of trails of varying length.

I'd investigate red rocks national conservation area. It's close to vegas, and has nice hiking and camping: http://www.blm.gov/nv/st/en/fo/lvfo/blm_programs/blm_special_areas/red_rock_nca.html

Hi Jari,

I agree with Seth's recommendation. I hiked up to Turtle Head Peak when I was in Vegas. It was a nice day hike.

Starts out with about 1-2 miles of gradual incline and pretty good footing. then you hit about a 1/2 mile rock scramble at which point the trail isn't clearly defined, and you just find your way up. then it's a pretty flat maybe .25 to .5 mile final push along the ridge line to the overlook. 

we saw a bunch of wild donkeys out there too haha...oh i just followed Seth's link...i guess they are called burros.  they were nice, but one guy tried getting a little too close, and they let him know he was infringing on their space

Thanx guys! This will be helpful. Leaning towards valley of Fire. 

Drop into REI and ask around there.  Probably get some ideas from those who have been there as well as maps (and probably a bazillion dollars of gear you just had to have). 

Wife will NOT let me in there unescorted.

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