Nevada’s hiking terrain offers an exciting range of trails, from towering peaks and remote canyons to the striking landscapes of the desert and alpine forests. While the state’s natural beauty is undeniable, the hiking conditions can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the climate. Whether you’re a first-time hiker or an experienced adventurer, understanding Nevada’s unique hiking environment is key to staying safe and enjoying the journey.
Best Time to Hike in Nevada
Nevada’s climate is largely arid and desert-like, with summer temperatures often soaring above 100°F (38°C) in lower elevations. This means hydration and sun protection are critical. In mountainous areas, you can experience dramatic shifts in temperature, with cooler, alpine conditions at higher elevations even in the summer months.
The best time to explore Nevada’s hiking trails is typically in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when temperatures are milder and the weather more predictable. During these seasons, you'll experience cooler daytime temperatures, making it easier to tackle more strenuous hikes like the Turtlehead Peak Trail or Charleston Peak South Trail. Spring brings wildflowers to the desert, while fall offers cooler, crisp air, perfect for scenic hikes like Griffith Peak or Hunter Creek Trail. Summer, though beautiful, can be extremely hot, especially in the lower desert regions, with temperatures reaching well above 100°F (38°C). For safety, avoid hiking during the peak heat of summer unless you’re sticking to higher altitudes like Mount Rose Peak or the Alpine Lakes Loop in Great Basin National Park, where temperatures remain cooler year-round.
Preparation Tips
Hydration is Key: With Nevada’s dry climate, you’ll lose moisture quickly, so it’s essential to carry more water than you think you'll need—especially on longer, more strenuous hikes like Charleston Peak or Turtlehead Peak. For most hikes, aim for at least 2 liters of water per person.
Sun Protection: The Nevada sun can be unforgiving, so be sure to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on overcast days. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will provide additional protection. Also, consider wearing lightweight, long-sleeve clothing to minimize sun exposure.
Start Early: For the best experience, start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, particularly on desert trails like those at Red Rock Canyon or Lake Mead. Early starts not only provide cooler temperatures but also allow you to experience the beauty of Nevada’s landscapes at dawn.
Know Your Limits: Nevada’s hikes range from easy strolls to tough climbs, so be mindful of the difficulty level. Trails like the Galena Falls Trail or Spooner Lake Trail offer a more moderate pace, while others, like Griffith Peak or Mount Rose Peak, require endurance and preparation. Be sure to choose a hike that matches your fitness and skill level.
Prepare for the Elements: Weather can change rapidly, particularly in mountainous areas. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly as you ascend. Carry layers to adapt to changing conditions and always check weather forecasts before heading out.
By taking these steps to stay prepared and aware of the conditions, you’ll be ready to take on Nevada’s trails and immerse yourself in the state’s stunning natural beauty.
Tahoe East Shore Trail
Location: Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park Rated: Easy Distance: 5.2 miles Elevation Gain: 344 ft
Recent reviewers of Tahoe East Shore Trail in Incline Village-Crystal Bay, Nevada, praise the stunning views and easy accessibility, but note that parking can be a challenge, especially later in the day. The trail is paved, with some sections near the road. It can get crowded and noisy due to road traffic. While early mornings are recommended to avoid crowds, there are benches to rest and enjoy the vistas along the way. Conditions lately have been warm, with temperatures in the low 70s in mid-August. Throughout August, typical weather in Incline Village-Crystal Bay includes sunny skies and warm temperatures, but crowds may be heavier due to peak tourist season.
Spooner Lake Trail
Location: Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park Rated: Easy Distance: 2.5 miles Elevation Gain: 124 ft
Enjoy this 2.5-mile loop trail near Glenbrook, Nevada. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 50 min to complete. This is a very popular area for cross-country skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Lam Watah Nature Trail to Nevada Beach
Location: Stateline, Nevada Rated: Easy Distance: 2.7 miles Elevation Gain: 98 ft
The trail may be slightly challenging to follow due to the presence of numerous spur and social trails. However, you will feel less isolated because you are walking in wide-open meadows where you can often see Hwy 50. This area is perfect for taking your dogs for a walk. Some parts of the trail may be a bit wet in the marsh area, so it's best to avoid them after heavy rainfall. Overall, this is an easy hike that has a few unexpected surprises and ends at Nevada Beach, which offers stunning views.
Alpine Lakes and Bristlecone and Glacier Loop
Location: Great Basin National Park Rated: Easy Distance: 2.6 miles Elevation Gain: 475 ft
The Alpine Lakes Loop Trail, located at the end of Great Basin National Park Scenic Drive, offers a diverse experience found only in the high-elevation backcountry. The hike begins at the Bristlecone Parking Area near Wheeler Peak Campground. The trail features two small lakes, both situated in the shadow of Wheeler Peak, occupying shallow depressions left behind by retreating glaciers. These lakes are fed by snowmelt and occasional summer storms. To reach Stella Lake, the trail ascends 400 feet from the trailhead and passes through a forest of Englemann spruce, aspen, and timber pine. At the top of the ridge awaits a stunning alpine setting with a barren sawtooth ridge rising above the surface of a smooth lake. The trail continues another mile to Teresa Lake, where above the lake, blooming primrose and shooting stars reveal a small spring. These lakes do not have any fish, as they are both shallow and freeze solid in winter. The trail is perfect for children and can be combined with the longer Bristlecone and/or Glacier trail to make a great day hike.
Chickadee Ridge via Tahoe Rim Trail
Location: Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Rated: Easy Distance: 2.3 miles Elevation Gain: 262 ft
This trail is an easy walk on a well-marked path that offers beautiful views. At the loop, there is a tree stump and a rock face that you can climb up to get a gorgeous view of Lake Tahoe and the Sierras. The entire trail is covered by trees, and you'll find plenty of birds and chipmunks along the way. It's a beautiful and easy trail that takes around an hour to complete. Remember not to feed the wildlife in the area.
Eagles Nest Trail
Location: Spring Mountains National Recreation Area Rated: Easy Distance: 2.7 miles Elevation Gain: 413 ft
Eagle's Nest Trail in Las Vegas, Nevada offers a beautiful and easy hike with great views, some shaded areas, and steep sections. Recent reviews mention a nice breeze, a significant temperature drop, some steep inclines, and a bit of overgrowth. Typically in August, the trail is hot and exposed with limited shade, making early morning hikes preferable. It is family-friendly and an enjoyable place to relax and take in the scenery.
Cave Rock Trail
Location: Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Rated: Easy Distance: .8 miles Elevation Gain: 118 ft
Recent reviews for Cave Rock Trail in Zephyr Cove, Nevada mention limited parking and a short, easy hike with great views. The trail leads to a rock that can be climbed for even better views, especially during sunset. Typically in August, weather conditions are perfect for hiking with clear skies and warm temperatures. Limited parking can be a challenge, but the short trail makes it easy for cars to rotate quickly.
Railroad Tunnel Trail Location: Lake Mead National Recreation Area Rated: Moderate Distance: 8.2 miles Elevation Gain: 932 ft
Recent reviews for the Railroad Tunnel Trail in Boulder City, Nevada, highlight the extreme heat conditions typical for August. Hikers are advised to start early, stay hydrated, and expect little shade outside the tunnels. The trail is flat and wide, making it suitable for runners and strollers. Generally, August conditions are very hot, so it’s essential to plan hikes in the cooler morning hours. The tunnels offer unique views and a chance to spot bats.
White Owl Canyon Via 33 Hole
Location: Lake Mead Recreational Area Rated: Moderate Distance: 3.4 miles Elevation Gain: 262 ft
All park visitors are required to purchase a recreational use pass upon entering Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Additionally, the park charges lake use fees. Lake Mead passes can be purchased online or at one of our entrance stations.
For more information, please visit https://www.nps.gov/lake/planyourvisit/fees.htm This route showcases two slot canyons that are connected by a mixture of roads and trails. The beginning and end of the hike are along steep gravel hills but other than that it’s very doable. Make sure to go left at the fork, as this allows you to step down through the steepest sections of the canyon rather than climb up them!
Fletch Canyon Trails
Location: Mount Charleston Wilderness Rated: Moderate Distance: 3.6 miles Elevation Gain: 954 ft
This trail takes you through the beautiful Fletcher Canyon and promises to be quite an adventure. Initially, it may seem a little flat and unimpressive, but the trail eventually transforms into a magnificent canyon that requires some scrambling to navigate. While there are some shaded areas along the way, most of the route is exposed to the sun, so it'sadvisable to use proper sun protection.
Castle Rock Loop Trail
Location: Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Rated: Moderate Distance: 2.9 miles Elevation: 570 ft
This is a lovely and challenging hike through the Tahoe Forest to Castle Rock. There are beautiful views to see along the way and plenty of photo opportunities to enjoy. The trail markings are somewhat confusing at points, as the hike begins on the Tahoe Rim Trail, takes a spur trail to Castle Rock, and then returns along the Castle Rock Trail. There is a rock-climbing access trail at the peak of this route.
Monkey Rock Trail
Location: Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park Rated: Moderate Distance: 2.6 miles Elevation Gain: 498 ft
The Glacier Trail is the continuation of the Bristlecone Trail that leads to a magnificent view of Wheeler Base Glacier. It continues beyond the bristlecone pine grove to the only glacier in Nevada, nestled beneath Wheeler Peak. The terrain is rocky, and you may also encounter snow depending on the time of year. The trailhead is located at the end of the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive at the Bristlecone Parking area. The trail winds through groves of the park's ancient trees and into a glacier-cut canyon to the nation's southernmost glacier. The trail also features interpretive signs that provide information about the flora and fauna in the area. The terrain is considered challenging as you will travel across piles of glacial-cut rocks.
White Rock Mountain Loop
Location: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Rated: Moderate Distance: 6.2 miles Elevation Gain: 1,148 ft
Recent reviews of White Rock Mountain Loop in Las Vegas mention hot conditions and suggest starting counterclockwise. Hikers enjoyed the views and occasional breeze but found the trail longer and harder than expected as the temperature rose. Conditions are usually warm with some breeze and occasional snakes encountered on the trail during August.
Calico Tanks Trail
Location: Red Rocks Canyon National Conversation Area Rated: Moderate Distance: 2.4 miles Elevation Gain: 439 ft
Enjoy this 2.4-mile out-and-back trail near Las Vegas, Nevada. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. This is a very popular area for hiking and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are September through May. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
First Creek Canyon Trail to The Grotto
Location: Red Rocks Canyon National Conversation Area Rated: Moderate Distance: 3.4 miles Elevation Gain: 433 ft
The hike is about a mile across the flat desert on a very wide, well-defined trail. Well before the mouth of the canyon, when you get to the very first tree, turn 90 degrees to your right and walk about 100ft to reach the hidden waterfall. There is a wide path to the top of the falls. However, reaching the base of the waterfall requires some scrambling.
Galena Falls Trail
Location: Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Rated: Moderate Distance: 4.8 miles Elevation Gain: 488 ft
This trail is fantastic with minimal elevation gain, creating an interesting desert-like environment due to its high elevation. It is a popular option for families, small children, and pets as there are no steep inclines. The trail offers a moderate amount of shade throughout and features a beautiful waterfall that provides great photo backgrounds. However, some parts of the trail can be narrow.
Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail
Location: Great Basin National Park Rated: Moderate Distance: 3.7 miles Elevation Gain: 793 ft
Awesome views, Explore this 3.7-mile out-and-back trail near Baker, Nevada. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 54 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, running, and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through October. You'll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren't allowed on this trail.
Van Sickle Rim Trail Connection
Location: Van Sickle Bi-State Park Rated: Moderate Distance: 6.4 miles Elevation Gain: 1,351 ft
Explore the stunning Van Sickle Bi-State Park along this trail, which is best started in the early morning to avoid hiking in direct sunlight with minimal shade. The trail offers breathtaking views throughout and leads to a magnificent waterfall. Continuing the hike, you'll pass through a lush forest until reaching the intersection of the Tahoe Rim Trail. Take a moment to enjoy the scenery before heading back or extending your hike along the TRT.
Hunter Creek Trail
Location: Humboldt-Yoiyabe National Forest Rated: Moderate Distance: 5.7 miles Elevation Gain: 1181 ft
Situated just outside Reno, the Hunter Creek Trail is a popular hiking and trail-running destination. A beautiful 30-foot waterfall is located at the trail's end, great for relaxing or dipping your toes into the cold water. The trail is well-marked and suitable for the whole family. At the trailhead, visitors will find a parking area and restrooms. Make sure to bring sunscreen and enough water on a hot day.
Turtlehead Peak Trail
Location: Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Rated: Hard Distance: 4.6 miles Elevation Gain: 1,978 ft This route features a peaceful hike past petroglyphs to the ridge line with views of Sandstone Quarry. The terrain can be rocky and challenging along certain sections, and it is advised to bring proper footwear and plenty of water and sun protection. Travel along a well-worn path to the summit of Turtlehead Mountain. This classic Red Rock Canyon Peak offers stunning views of Las Vegas and the Red Rock Canyon Mountain skyline.
Charleston Peak South Trail
Location: Mount Charleston Wilderness Rated: Hard Distance: 16.2 miles Elevation Gain: 4,888 ft
Proceed cautiously on this 16.3-mile out-and-back trail near Mount Charleston, Nevada. Generally considered a highly challenging route, it should only be attempted by experienced adventurers. This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Mount Rose Peak Trail
Location: Humboldt-Yoiyabe National Forest Rated: Hard Distance: 10.7 miles Elevation Gain: 2,378 ft
Try this 10.7-mile loop trail near Incline Village-Crystal Bay, Nevada. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 34 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Kraft Mountain Loop
Location: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Rated: Hard Distance: 3.6 miles Elevation Gain: 620 ft
Hikers of Kraft Mountain Loop in Blue Diamond, Nevada, recommend starting early to avoid the hot weather. Going counterclockwise is advised for an easier climb. Rock scrambling and climbing are involved, offering great views and a challenging but rewarding experience. Be prepared with plenty of water and suitable gear. Typically in August, the area is hot and exposed, so it's best to start early to avoid peak heat.
Griffith Peak Trail
Location: Springs Mountains National Recreational Area Rated: Hard Distance: 8.8 miles Elevation Gain: 3,395 ft
This trail is challenging but offers a stunning panoramic view from the peak. The climb begins right from the start and takes you through some of the most picturesque forested areas of the mountains. You can admire the rugged cliffs, explore the caves, listen to the sound of the water rushing over rocky ledges, or simply enjoy the colors of wildflowers and grasses at your feet, the scent of pines, and the sounds of birds and butterflies fluttering around. Although it may tire your muscles, the South Loop Trail is worth the effort. The easiest way to reach Mt. Charleston Peak is via this route. However, even reaching the crest of the ridge and the lush meadows area is a great achievement. This trail is suitable for experienced horses, but there are a few narrow and rocky spots to be aware of. Unfortunately, there is no water source along this route, so make sure to carry sufficient water. Although the Harris Springs route is easier, this trail is exceptionally scenic.
Echo Overlook Trail
Location: Spring Mountains National Recreation Area Rated: Hard Distance: 3.7 miles Elevation Gain: 1,417 ft
Even though this is a strenuous hike due to the steep switchbacks and elevation gain, it is a beautiful trail from the very beginning. The fall colors are magnificent, but this is a great way to escape the summer heat because you are under trees the entire time. Aspens, cottonwoods and pines fill the avalanche chute at eye level, while brilliantly colored wildflowers and lush green grasses cover the soil. Look for the large cave in the cliffs on your L as you cross back and forth across the side canyon, up the steep stone steps (do NOT take the gravel road to the L), and up the east side of the avalanche chute, climbing rapidly towards Echo Cliffs. The slopes are generously covered with more flowers (lots of dark purples & brilliant red paintbrush), and you'll soon hear/see the water flowing down the falls/ledges back in the canyon toward the knob below Griffith Peak. The overlook is a great place to stop, relax, lunch, etc. but be very careful near the edge.