Las Vegas might be better known for neon lights and slot machines than for hiking trails and fishing holes, but you don't have to go far from downtown Vegas to find yourself in the wilderness. Many visitors are starting to discover what those lucky enough to make their homes in Las Vegas already know—that the Las Vegas area offers an endless supply of outdoor adventures.

1. Climb Red Rock Canyon
   Just 20 minutes from downtown, Red Rock Canyon is one of the most underrated natural wonders of the Southwest. Its extraordinary red sandstone rock formations offer countless perfect climbing and bouldering routes, plus hiking, biking and equestrian trails.
   
   
2. Paddle the Colorado River
   The Colorado River offers everything from surging whitewater to serene stretches of slow-rolling waterways. Many sections of the river are perfect for a relaxing kayak excursion, and several companies in the Las Vegas area offer guided kayaking trips.
   
   
3. Hike the Historic Railroad Tunnels
   Along the shoreline of Lake Mead, a 4-mile hiking route follows the Historic Railroad Tunnels that were originally used during the construction of the Hoover Dam. The flat, easy trail offers a unique experience that is suitable for hikers of all skill and fitness levels.
   
   
4. Explore the Springs Preserve
   At the Springs Preserve you can wander among 180 acres of beautiful botanical gardens, walking paths and museums without ever leaving the city.
   
   
5. Zipline at Boulder City
   Just 30 minutes from the Vegas Strip, Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon offers thrilling zipline adventures in a stunning desert setting. Soar over the Mojave Desert, and zoom down the slopes of the Red Mountains in Boulder City, NV at speeds up to 60 miles per hour. 
   
   
   
   
6. Float on Lake Mead
   One of America's largest man-made bodies of water, Lake Mead is a bright blue jewel in the heart of the Mojave. Surrounded by walls of red sandstone, the lake offers every conceivable water sport, from kayaking and paddle-boarding to swimming and scuba diving. It's also home to some of the best fishing in the southwest, and sits less than 40 minutes from downtown Las Vegas.
   
   
7. Snowboard Lee Canyon
   It takes less than an hour to get from Las Vegas to the alpine wonderland of Lee Canyon and Mt. Charleston, where you'll find some of the region's best ski and snowboard slopes. This area doesn't offer the most challenging terrain around, but that makes it great for beginners and intermediate snowboarders.
   
   
   
   
8. Drive the Valley of Fire
   Valley of Fire State Park is an extraordinarily beautiful landscape of rugged rock formations and outcrops, and was once a sacred place to the ancient Anasazi Indians. Scenic driving routes through the park provide endless sightseeing and photography opportunities, plus access to dozens of hiking trails, bike routes, campgrounds and picnic areas.
   
   
9. Soar Above the Desert
   Get a unique perspective of Nevada's spectacular desert with Vegas Balloon Rides. These guided hot air balloon tours take you 1,000 feet above the city and the surrounding landscape for an unforgettable view.
   
   
   
   
10. Experience Death Valley
    Death Valley National Park is about two hours from Vegas, but it's well worth the trip. This park offers true beauty in its wild extremes. It's the lowest, hottest and driest place in North America, but the surrounding mountains are rich in life, and offer countless opportunities to explore.

Contact Wardley Real Estate to learn more about life in Las Vegas. From nightlife to the great outdoors, our real estate agents have the key to an endless supply of home-buying adventures in Las Vegas.