Sometimes there’s no better plan than packing up the car and getting away from the city. The open road is full of possibilities. And when it comes to taking scenic drives near Las Vegas, there is so much natural beauty and rugged landscape to be discovered. If escaping to The Downtown Container Park just isn’t cutting it anymore, why not expand your horizons and go on a memorable drive?
There is an abundance of hiking trails to walk along, even the Rubber Ducky Trail, but sometimes enjoying sweeping views is better from the comfort and convenience of a car.
1. Red Rock Canyon State Park
Embark on 13 miles of red peaks, panoramic views, and more on this scenic drive just a few miles from Sin City. Visitors in vehicles and bicycles are welcome to discover the flora and fauna, seasonal waterfalls, the Keystone Thrust Fault, and everything else this stunning conservation area has to offer. There is an entry fee and it’s important to note that a reservation is required for entry to the Scenic Drive October 1 through May 31.
🚘 From Las Vegas: about 30 minutes by car
2. Blue Diamond Bend
Get on the Blue Diamond Highway (HWY 159) in southern Nevada for one of the most convenient scenic drives near Las Vegas. You’ll also find yourself pretty much in and around the areas of Bonnie Springs Ranch, Spring Mountain State Park, and the Red Rock National Conservation Area. Take in the breathtaking views of the Spring Mountains and decide for yourself when you’d like to turn off for a photograph session.
🚘 From Las Vegas: about 11 minutes by car
3. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lake Mead is America’s largest reservoir, and boasts a 12-mile drive along Lakeshore Road. You can begin your drive at the southern end of Lakeshore Road, near the visitor center. As you listen to your favorite music, put the windows down and breathe in the fresh air, you can look forward to seeing a historic railroad and the Lake Mead Lodge, and you can also make your way to the Lake Mead and Las Vegas Boat Harbor Marinas by taking the Hemenway Harbor Road.
🚘 From Las Vegas: about 30 minutes by car
4. Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park is one of the most popular scenic drives near Las Vegas and it leaves you with two options. Firstly, you can take the main highway (NV 169) through the park which features an abundance of rocky sights. And secondly, you can take the six mile White Domes Road, also known as Mouse’s Tank Road. The latter leads you to short trails, narrow canyons, petroglyphs, and desert viewpoints.
🚘 From Las Vegas: about 50 minutes by car
5. Zion National Park
Scenic drives through Zion National Park leave nothing to be desired. There are four roads you can go on to drive through the park. It’s worth noting that private vehicles are not permitted during the busy season. The four roads include Zion Scenic Drive, Highway 9, also called the Zion-Mount Carmel Road, Kolob Terrace Road, and Kolob Canyons Road. Discover amazing trails, the Mt. Carmel Tunnel, and sweeping views at Zion National Park.
🚘 From Las Vegas: about 2 hours by car
6. Grand Canyon West Rim
At Grand Canyon West, you’ll find the famous Skywalk on the Hualapai Reservation. As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, it’s unlikely that a day trip from Las Vegas to here will prove disappointing. You can even stop at Hoover Dam and see Joshua Tree Forest on the way. Prepare to be mesmerized by otherworldly views once you arrive. Why not be really adventurous and try a whitewater rafting tour?
🚘 From Las Vegas: about 2-4 hours by car