The Calico Tanks Trail near Las Vegas, Nevada, is a strenuous hike over “jumbled sandstone” leading to a “hidden water pocket and a great view of Las Vegas,” according to the official Red Rock Canyon website. The hike is only 2.5 miles, but shouldn’t be attempted by beginners. Healthy families should be fine, though, so enjoy!
The newly-renovated Cathedral Rock Trail is part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. This vigorous trail leads to a waterfall, an avalanche chute, and a gorgeous view of Kyle Canyon. Its moderate difficulty lends itself to heavy usage.
The Van Sickle Rim Trail Connector is right on the state line between California and Nevada, but with 575 acres in Nevada, we think it more than counts. Situated right in the Tahoe Basin, the trail is surrounded by beautiful forest and is a favorite for hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians.
Dry Pond Trail is just under seven miles with over 1,000 feet in elevation gain. Hikers, mountain bikers, and dog walkers frequent the trail. Along the way, you’re sure to find fantastic fall colors and nice weather to keep you cool during your hike.
The Bristlecone Pine Trail is known for its ancient Bristlecone pine trees. The trees are the oldest living trees in the world. Seeing the trees is well-worth the 2.8-mile hike. The adventurous can even continue the trail along the Glacier Trail beyond the pines, to the only glacier in Nevada.
]]>Part of Red Rock Canyon, this trail offers families a stunning view of the rocks on a well-maintained course that is open to all ages. The 2.5-mile hike will re-open with major improvements in September 2017. This includes work to create safer trails to accommodate a variety of skill levels. While this is a hike in the open sun, it is short enough to allow even smaller family members a successful hike. The half-way point of the hike offers a stunning view of Las Vegas. Along the way there is also an unexpected hidden waterway with caverns that make for some really great pictures.
The full trail is a whopping 165-mile journey, so this is the type of place where you can make several trips and not see the same part of the trail twice. The area is well-mapped so hikers can chose their starting points based on whether they want to hike along the valley floor, explore one of the amazing vistas, or walk along a high alpine lake. Some of the trail is more challenging as there are significant changes in altitude, but the views are amazing. Part of the trail is also open for winter hikes as access is cleared. The trail is well maintained with added features like small bridges to cross waterways making the hike easier.
This loop is paved and very family friendly. It is open for both hikers and bikers so many families enjoy letting younger family members peddle along as they hike. The trail is also a bit different since it explores some of the old railroad tunnels. Little ones often enjoy that part of the trek. Because is it is the desert and along some lower level mountains, you have a pretty good chance of encountering some pretty unique wildlife like mountain goats. The riverside scenery is also something a bit unexpected against the sandstone of the desert.
Located in the Valley of Fire, this short trek offers some of the best views of sandstone you will find along an easier hike. The full loop is one mile so its perfect for all ages. Along the way you will see a slot canyon, caves, structures made out of sandstone and even an old movie set. Because it is the middle of the desert, heat during the summer can be a concern for some. With careful planning to keep everyone hydrated, the short trail hike is worth the sweeping views of the rock formations alone.
Part of the city parks, this series of trails gives families a bit of an unexpected view of the Nevada wetlands. There are trails for all skill levels including a wooden boardwalk that is wheelchair accessible. Visitors enjoy watching the variety of waterfowl and animals coming to escape the heat via the shoreline. The greenery along the water is also a nice contrast to the desert views in the background. This area tends to also run a bit cooler than the desert around it so this is a good choice for summer hiking with families as well.
]]>The Colorado River provides ample space and opportunity to jet ski around Laughlin, Nevada. Bring your own jet ski or rent one from the nearby Watercraft Adventures. With seven locations, you’re sure to run into one sooner or later.
Walker Lake near Hawthorne, Nevada, is another great spot to load up and get on the water. Between Reno and Las Vegas, the lake is 12.7-miles-long and five miles-wide. Strict boating regulations are enforced on the lake, including no boating at the south end or within a 100-yard radius of the Rose Creek. But keep the regulations in mind, and you’re sure to have a bang-up time.
Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, is a perfect jet ski destination. Just 38 miles outside of Las Vegas, the lake boasts calm waters for around 247 square-miles. Skiwi Rentals is available for all of your jet ski rental needs, including towing vehicles.
Lake Tahoe, along the California and Nevada state lines, has a surface elevation of over 6,000 feet and is the largest alpine lake in North America. The lake attracts winter and summer sports fans. In addition to jet skiing, paddleboarding and parasailing are also popular. Check out Action Watersports for rentals!
Why not spend the weekend on Callville Bay? The Calville Bay Resort and Marina “offers both the features of an ideal getaway with the convenience of entertainment opportunities.” Jet skis are available for rent and for launch right at the resort. It doesn’t get much more convenient than that.
]]>Make a weekend camping and off-roading trip to the Water Canyon Recreation Area just above the town of Winnemucca, Nevada. A frequent stop for hikers, picnickers, bikers, and off-roaders, the canyon is home to lush and diverse flora and fauna. ATV use is limited and available only in certain areas, so make sure to double check the website before climbing the 2,000 feet to the recreation area to ensure you’re headed to the correct location.
Travel along the Hunter Lake Trail for a 13.7-mile, lakeside view. Be warned: The elevation gain is staggering, coming in at just over 3,000 feet. Hunter Lake Trail is viewed as one of the more difficult trails, especially among those near the Toiyabe National Forest. The terrain is loose and gravely, making it easier to get stuck in the road. But if you’re an experienced off-roader looking for a challenge, look no further.
Come on out to Mojave Road near Laughlin, Nevada, for a 117-mile, moderately difficult off-roading trail. The elevation gain is even larger than along the Hunter lake Trail, at over 8,500 feet. Riders are in for a moderate descent, water crossings, dry lake beds, and a long journey from point to point. Due to high temperatures with summer weather often hitting three digits, it is recommended to take the Mojave Road during November through March.
Experienced off-roaders have a nearly endless assortment of trails to choose from, but the Jumbo Grade Trail is perfect for riders of all skill levels, including beginners. This looped trail covers around 14 miles and is used for hiking, horseback riding, dog walking, as well as off-roading. The trail is pretty straight forward without too many hazards, which makes it perfect for a new rider to get their bearings. Make sure to check the weather before heading out, as it can get pretty toasty on a summer day.
The very first Las Vegas ATV tour company, Adrenaline ATV Tours offers the best in vehicles and terrain. Tour rates start at $110 per person. One of their most significant trips is the ATV Las Vas Tour Polaris ACE 900 XC. Guides take riders on a three-hour tour through Vegas’ Valley of Fire. This Polaris ACE is one of the best vehicles on the market, and is brand new as of 2017.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>Mount Charleston is only about 35 miles from Las Vegas and offers some of the best hiking in the state. Whether you have a family of advanced hikers that can take on Charleston Peak or younger kids that need a less strenuous hike, there are more than enough trails to suit any skill level. For families with children, a hike along the Mary Jane Falls Trail is the perfect introduction to day hiking. This is by far the most popular family trail in the park and is well known for some pretty stunning views of the falls and caves. The hike is 2.5 miles with an elevation gain of a little over 1,000 feet.
Red Rock Canyon is what many people think of when they picture the Las Vegas desert. The sandstone here are a deep, dark red and form some of the most unique natural sculptures in the world. The conservation area has a good range of activities for all types of families. For families with small children, the Moenkopi Loop is recommended. This trail is rated as easy, and is two miles in length which should only take about an hour and a half to traverse. On the hike, take in the views of Triassic fossils and unique desert flora. The Willow Springs Loop is also designated as an easier hike for inexperienced hikers. At 1.5 miles in length, the Willow Springs Loop traverses through Agave roasting pits and a pictograph site.
This wildlife range is the largest outside of Alaska with 1.6 million acres. There are a wide range of trails to take, but some can prove to be challenging. For a lightly-trafficked hike, get going on the roughly two-mile Corn Creek Nature Trail. This loop has a very gradual rise in elevation that does not go over 100 feet in elevation. This is a fun hike for those wanting to bird watch or see other wildlife. This hike is also a bit greener than some of the other hikes in the area.
This park covers 2,900 acres. There are a variety of trails that might prove to be a bit challenging with the wetlands, but the Duck Creek Trail is both family and canine friendly! Participate in one of their naturalist-guided Woof Walks where you and your four-legged friend can learn about the local plant and wildlife. Children will also enjoy the chance to see the wide variety of animals and birds in the area. The one-mile hike is pretty flat but it can be muddy in parts, so be prepared. It is a nice place to take regular hikes with young kids because there is always something different to see.
Valley of Fire gets its name from the colorful sandstone that rests along the desert. The trails here are not difficult, but the heat can be overwhelming at times so bring lots of water, sunscreen, and even things like protective sun gear. The Rainbow Vista Trail offers a very reasonable hike that is family friendly. The trail is 1.1 miles each way and only gains about 150 feet in elevation. The stars of this short but sometimes very hot hike are the rock formations. Mouse's Tank is another easy hike in the park. The cave art is a cool addition to the sandstone in this area. The hike is a little over a mile each way with very little rise.
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Located midway between Capital Reef and Canyonlands National Parks, Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park offers much of the same type of desert-hoodoo landscape formations, as well as incredible canyoning opportunities, as its neighbors. The campground is not particularly secluded or tree-lined, but it is an excellent gateway to all that the park has to offer.
Campsite 12 is a tent-only site that is set back a little away from RVs and other campers. The site includes your own shaded picnic table and a brilliant, uninterrupted view of the rock formations that Goblin Valley is known for. Not feeling like setting up and taking down your own shelter? Grab one of the yurts available for rent in the park.
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If you’ve ever been to Hawaii—or planned a trip to Hawaii—you know lodging is not cheap. A great way to avoid exorbitant lodging costs in the Aloha State is to camp. Many of the state’s parks offer excellent camping options and facilities. Those visiting the Garden Isle of Kauai will appreciate the picturesque beauty of Koke’e State Park.
Perched 4,000 feet above the lush vegetation of the Kalalau Valley, with sweeping views out to the Pacific, Koke’e offers several tent camping opportunities in campsites that have been minimally developed. In addition, several cabins are available for rental in the park if you’re hoping for a break from tent camping.
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Lake Cascade State Park in west-central Idaho comprises 86 miles of shoreline along the edge of the eponymous lake. The park is tucked into the region’s wooded mountains near the Payette National Forest. Popular with anglers, Lake Cascade is known as a prime spot for trout and salmon fishing. The surrounding area offers miles of trails for hiking, cycling and birding. The park’s 41 square miles of surface water are ideal for paddling or boating.
Dispersed primitive camping is available at several locations throughout the park. But if you’d like a few more amenities (restrooms, for example), the Blue Heron Campground is tent-only and located on a peninsula that juts out into the lack. Site G is a lakefront site that is set back an away from the other sites, so you have your own little slice of heaven.
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is just west of—and a world away from—the Bay Area megalopolis in California. It is the state’s first and oldest state park. The park’s main feature, as the name implies, is the ancient, coast redwood trees marching up and down the slopes. Blooms Creek Campground in the park affords the opportunity to sleep among these beautiful giants, which are up to 1,800 years old.
Site 153 is a hike-in site that is away from the main campground but close to a water source. It connects to the Blooms Creek Trail, which in turn, connects to many of the other trails in the park.
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Oregon’s Ainsworth State Park lies within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and encompasses spectacular natural features like Horsetail Falls and 620-ft. Multnomah Falls. There are many hiking trails in the park, itself, that take advantage of the fantastic beauty of the Gorge. The park also connects to several trails that lead to other points of interest like the majestic St. Peter’s Dome, which rises 2,000 feet over the river.
The campground at Ainsworth offers six walk-in tent sites that are set back and away from the main campground and connect to trails that allow you to avoid walking through the main part of the camping area. Any one of the sites puts you in the midst of all that the park has to offer but provides the illusion of a secluded site away from civilization.
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This is the perfect combination of breathtaking scenery and mild enough waters for the whole family. Start your journey with Desert Adventures, who offer guided tours of the area. Part of the Colorado River, this trip is a little different since the water is moving, but it’s significantly flat. There are no rapids or rock sections that may be a hazard for those new to the sport. The access point to start this trek is Lower Portal Road at the base of Hoover Dam. The guides are also really great about pointing out key sites along the way you may not notice otherwise. Having a team to support new paddlers is also great in the event someone falls out of their vessel. The kids will love the time learning to paddle and the parents love the bonus waiting at the end of this trip. The natural hot springs are wonderful to calm well used muscles!
Lake Mead is a family-friendly place to learn to paddle or to build newly emerging skills. The location is central enough so you do not need to worry about an accident somewhere too isolated to get help. There are also a full range of rental options with Kayak Lake Mead if you do not own your own equipment or want to test something new. Lessons with Kayak Lead Mead offer some great tips for those wanting to get into the sport as a hobby. They take the time to match each participant with the best fit as far as equipment goes. The lake itself is also relatively easy to maneuver!
The Truckee River runs through downtown Reno and offers something unique to all skills levels, a river that has been sculpted into a park for skill practice. There are rapids to test skills, from those just starting out to the experts. The best part about the park is the ease of use. Everything is user-friendly and you know exactly what you are getting into before you try each part of the park. The park is also a fun spot to try your hand at water activities including races for all skills and the yearly festival. Many visitors enjoy being able to grab some outdoor adventure without the unpredictability of other rapids.
Willow Beach is located on the border of Nevada and Arizona. The calm waters are a fun place to try out a new skill. This can be done from a camping spot along the beach or via a tour. Organized by Blazin’ Paddles, this is a unique family trip if you go the tour option as they offer a moonlight kayaking trip. The after dark vision of shore wildlife and the sites gives the whole family a different view of the world. This option is also great during the summer months for younger family members who may not handle the sun well. The heat after dark is much more manageable. The kids will love paddling with glow sticks and quietly watching for the elusive night creatures taking a break on the shore.
While this area is known for the wildlife, the waterways are very user friendly for those new to the sport. The connecting waterways of the refuge gives families a glimpse into much of the wildlife you just can't see from a hiking trail. Because this area is on the migration path of many local waterfowl, this is a fun trip to plan for those times. This is not just a location to hit in the summer, fall trips can also be pretty amazing. The park is just over 5,000 acres so there is a lot to explore. This quickly becomes the go-to destination for many families because there is always something new to see along the way.
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Joe’s Bait and Tackle has been servicing the Las Vegas, Nevada area’s fishing needs since 2015. They sell live and frozen bait, anchors, trailer hitches, and tackle. They also provide boat repair services.
The Elko Fly Shop is a full-service fly shop with a focus on fly fishing equipment. They stock Sage, Simms, Orvis, and more. According to their website, customer service is their passion.
The Reno Fly Shop staff draws upon their considerable local knowledge to help customers purchase the best tools for their specific goals. They stock 15,000 different flies, including dries, nymphs, and streamers.
The Angler’s Edge describes themselves as “a friendly, encouraging full-service fly shop,” stocking fly fishing gear, expert guides, and custom flies, among other equipment. They also offer fly tying classes.
Sports World Nevada in Ely, Nevada, sells hunting, shooting, camping, cycling, and fishing equipment. Whether you’re a bass or fly fisher, you’re sure to find the bait and tackle you need.
Next time you need ammo and fishing tackle, consider stopping by Mark Fore and Strike in Reno for both. They sell shotguns, pistols, rifles, scopes, black powder guns, a full line of camping equipment, and fly, stream, and lake fishing tackle. They can also issue Nevada and California hunting and fishing licenses.
Not only does Searchlight provide a space for you to keep your boat and RV secure, but they also will help you stock up on everything you’ll need for a fishing outing. Find bait, tackle, snacks, beverages, ice, and more at Searchlight!
Orvis is one of the biggest names in outdoorsmen-ship, and in Nevada, that’s no exception. Their Reno shop sells fly rods, reels, line, backing, boxes, and much more. Check out their full inventory online or stop in to the storefront to see for yourself.
West Marine is another big retail shop, with two locations in Nevada. Stop in to the Reno or Henderson locations for all your fishing needs, including bait tanks and pumps, fillet and bait tables, fishing rods, terminal tackle, and more.
]]>There is a fairly new feature offered at Lee, and if you and your company are looking for a heated spot to relax and wouldn’t mind VIP treatment, you definitely have to consider renting a snow cabana. After shredding the slopes, you can head to the mountainside cabana to kick off your boots and rest those sore muscles on one of the comfy sofas. You can jam to music, watch movies, enjoy bottle service, and get some of the various menu options delivered straight to you. It doesn’t get better than that.
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It takes an army to pry some snow-lovers off the mountain. If you are one of these people, grab your crew and head to the tubing area near the base. Lee Canyon offers an exhilarating snow tubing experience that won’t drain you of all your energy. Your ticket is good for a 90-minute session, so it makes for an ideal activity to wind down after ripping down the mountain. Plus, you’ll get the chance to experience the mountain from a different perspective. Try to grab tickets in advance, they are known to sell out fast.
Just over 25 minutes away from the mountain, you will find the Mt. Charleston Lodge where the scene is alive, the views are unprecedented, and the food is spectacular. Gaze at the mountain you just trailed down from the 7,717-foot elevation dining area while indulging in mouthwatering plates. Their famous homemade French onion soup will warm you from the inside out, while one of the many brick oven pizza options will leave you eating the crumbs. The restaurant has something to satisfy everyone—there is even a Doggie Menu for your four-legged friend! The area is so stunning you might even be tempted to stay at one of their cabins on site.
Change up the snowy scenery with a trip to one of the most unique museums in Las Vegas, the Springs Preserve. This 180-acre museum is primarily outdoors, containing a botanical garden, an extensive trail system, art galleries, and more. Focused on environmental sustainability, the Springs Preserve is “designed to commemorate Las Vegas' dynamic history and to provide a vision for a sustainable future."
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This well-acclaimed yet tucked-away restaurant and bar is certainly worth a visit (or 10). Herbs and Rye has earned itself quite the reputation, with at least seven major awards under their belt it’s no wonder why locals and visitors flock to it on a regular basis. The outstanding service competes with their quality of food and beverage. Many claim the steaks are the best in town, which can be verified by their rave reviews. Whether you are there to bask in the retro atmosphere, admire the whiskey selection, or eat your way through the menu, this place is sure to please.
If you’ve experienced enough cold weather and are looking to warm up “Vegas style," there’s no better place than to explore the casinos at the Strip. Whichever casino you end up at, it’s sure to have slots, craps, and cards. Put on your poker face at the Bellagio, get loud playing craps at Flamingo, test your luck on the slot machines at ARIA, or bet on sports and races at Stratosphere. Turn your pennies into bundles of cash and try to make your way to the Winner’s Circle.
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This unique open-air shopping center is a lively spot begging to dazzle you with their exciting restaurants, one-of-a-kind shops, live entertainment, and picturesque atmosphere. Right in downtown Las Vegas you will only be traveling an hour to get from the slopes to the heart of the park. With events always happening and a small dome theater with constant entertainment, you can guarantee an exciting evening when you come to visit.
You won’t have to travel to New York to experience the magic of the Brooklyn Bowl. A day of skiing ought to be followed up with some live music and 32 lanes of excitement, which can all be provided to you at Las Vegas’ Brooklyn Bowl. The atmosphere here is that of a classic music hall, complete with vibrant lighting, eight huge HD screens, massive leather Chesterfield sofas, and a Bowler’s Lounge. While bowling, grab dinner, drinks, and check the event calendar to see if there are any big-name music acts performing while you are there. All ages welcome!
If your body is up for the challenge after skiing, head to Gold Strike Hot Springs about an hour and a half away from Lee Canyon towards Hoover Dam. Don’t underestimate this hike—you’ll have to maneuver down the canyon through nearly four miles of this all-natural adventure park before the hot springs await you. Once you trek your way through “8 rope courses that weave in and out of house-sized boulders," you will be rewarded with a spa experience like no other. You’ll be surrounded by vibrant plants, wildlife, and gorgeous natural features whilst soaking in the therapeutic waters. This hike isn’t for everyone so be sure you’re in shape to go!
While skiing in the area, it would be a shame to not visit the structure that brought people to the Las Vegas area: the Hoover Dam. Reading about the dam is one thing but seeing it in person is quite a humbling experience. Take a tour and hear the history behind how this came to be one of the most remarkable modern marvels in the 20th century. Not just a dam, this innovative structure is admired by many Art Deco enthusiasts.
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The scenery in this long, narrow valley in southeastern Nevada is breathtaking. It is a great place to take pictures and see the natural wonder that is the sandstone. There are 22 camping spaces that offer a picnic table, grill and shaded dinning area. The nightly charge for camping is $7, so it is also really budget friendly! There are a few spaces with power if you travel in an RV instead of with a tent. There are also two special handicapped spaces that offer regular bathrooms and power. There is a longer four-mile path to see all the caves, but for smaller children there is a much shorter one-mile loop.
The Cove is a great place for first time campers because there are so many different options as far as where you can stay goes. You can camp, bring an RV that needs hook-ups, rent a cabin, or stay at the resort. Even if you start out in a tent and find that isn't working out as you expected, it is usually easy to get into a cabin or room. This is one of the nicer beach areas in the state, too. There are cruises if you want to explore the waters with a little one. They also have horseback riding for families and a wide range of weekend tours that are family friendly.
This family-owned campground is well maintained and a fun family break from the fast paced Las Vegas strip. It is great for tent camping as each camping space is level and clean. They also offer many options for RV spaces and for those needing power.
The owners are extremely friendly and accommodating. They remodeled many of the camping spaces over the last year and everything is state of the art. The location is also a bit milder weather-wise than the true high desert just outside of Las Vegas. This often means it is 10 to 15 degrees cooler there and easier on the kids. They can enjoy things like riding bikes or hiking without the intense heat.
Located at Cave Lake, this campground is an oasis in the desert. The lake is gorgeous and the fish are stocked so there is a great chance of catching something. The area hosts some very fun family activities each summer including their famous bathtub races and the “Fire and Ice” show. The 32-acre reservoir is a favorite for family fishing and boating. They also have a variety of easier walking trails that are good for even the smallest family members. There are well-maintained camping spaces for tents, and rentals of both cabins and yurts.
Of the five campgrounds listed, this is by far the most rustic. The park is right at the border of Utah and has a great variety of greenery than many expect in Nevada. Wildlife is everywhere at the primitive camping spot, but there are also enough comforts for most families. The camping spaces can accommodate a trailer and this is how many tend to use this park. There are spaces that are tent friendly as well. The hiking trails for the most part are pretty easy and family friendly. While this area is open year round, they only offer drinking water services April through November. Although it is rustic, this is a popular spot for things like family reunions because of the accommodations for groups. There is a shelter that holds about 60 people and plenty of camping around it for those who like to travel with other families.
]]>With every spot in this park being a pull-through, this is great for any size of RV. The trip to get here is a bit out of the way but once you see the undisturbed landscape you will understand why so many people make this a family tradition. Whether you enjoy the rolling western landscape or trek to the lake, the scenery takes you back in time. The water is clear and many enjoy swimming and fishing. This is camping at it's best.
This RV and camping spot is perfect for families looking for a bit of an adventure. It is rustic enough to give the kids a chance to explore the desert, but also has a few unexpected features that will add to the adventure. There is a ghost town to explore that dates back to the silver rush. There are also the Leham Caves to explore. The structures are interesting and each is marked with a bit of history. The park itself has all the amenities you would expect from a KOA facility.
Vegas meets the RV lifestyle with this high-end park. They offer a resort level pool that rivals the best of the big strip hotels with the convenience of offering full RV pull-through spots. They offer five types of RV spots to accommodate all sizes of rigs without charging families for services they do not need. They also offer easy access to the Vegas strip for those who want to bring the RV to Sin City. They even have a putting green for those who are itching to get in a little golf practice.
This RV park is a direct access point to the Bootleg Canyon Trails. It is also very close to Hoover Dam so there is plenty to explore in this small town feeling park. There is a family-friendly vibe with very clean facilities at Canyon Trail. The rates are also very reasonable. With plenty to see and explore around the park, this is a great location to serve as a home base for exploring the state.
The Iron Horse area takes pride in being the last living real cow town in the west. This is a fun place to park the RV and experience life from a long lost era. Families enjoy the wild west feel along with the first-class amenities. Don't think because they want to take you back to the frontier that they expect you to live like a settler. This park has everything most RV'ers look for including pools, well-established hook-ups and facilities. There is also the bonus of exploring unique sites and experiences in Elko.
]]>The Cat in the Hat route at Red Rocks is one of the most popular routes in the state. With an approach time of 30 minutes and an average climb route of 2-3 hours, the Cat in the Hat hides its ledges and cracks. But once you find them, you’ll have a relatively easy time of it.
Brown Sugar is one of the Arrow Canyon Wilderness’ classic routes. It is immediately challenging, forcing climbers to contend with boulders and steep rock. Once you’re through with the first hazards, it’s a sustained climb to the top.
The Small Arms climb in the La Madre Range is a great route to take as a warmup to larger routes, or for beginners who aren’t ready for longer climbs. The rock is relatively easy, but like with all routes, make sure to take extra care to ensure your own safety.
Maxwell’s Hammer in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, is on the face of Spooner Crag. The route is one of the more challenging ones mentioned, so we recommend spending some time researching what tools you’ll need and if you’re comfortable with a route of this magnitude before heading out. For those that are comfortable, however, it is quite rewarding.
This spot is among the very best in the state for climbing. Be sure to give yourself 1-3 hours to hike to the location, which is up on Eagle Wall above Oak Creek Canyon. This trad and sport climbing location features nine pitches. Take note: The sandstone of Red Rocks is very delicate after rain.
]]>Dreamcatcher Archery is one of the go-to archery gear spots in the Las Vegas area. They offer mobile services, including archery equipment maintenance and repairs. They also offer archery lessons, with seasonal discounts.
Wasting Arrows in Reno, Nevada, is an indoor archery powerhouse with lessons, classes, leagues, and bow and archery equipment sales. They are one of the best spots to practice your skills as well as pick up new equipment.
Team Impact Archery is one of the “premier archery ranges in Las Vegas,” according to their website. They offer tons of lessons and ways to improve your archery game. In addition, their store provides name brands like Hoyt, PSE, Mathews, and more. They also provide custom strings and custom ordering if you want something they don’t have in stock.
House of Arrows Archery has been in business for 27 years servicing the Sparks, Nevada, area. They specialize in traditional archery equipment and products. They’re also known for donating to local charities and causes.
Tuesday through Sunday, pick up your archery gear at Aces and Arrows Archery in Henderson, Nevada. Every bow purchase includes a complete tuning, installation of all accessories, shooting instructions, and more.
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Las Vegas starts celebrating October early with their Hofbrauhaus Oktoberfest festival. The festivities begin mid-September and features celebrity keg tapping’s every Friday and Saturday until November. Come in to taste the beer, traditional German food, and compete in Stein Holding contests.
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At the end of October, Sparks, Nevada transforms into its very own mini-Halloween Town. Pumpkin Palooza, the extravagant, enormously fun Halloween celebration takes to the streets for family-friendly festivities. Activities include a pumpkin derby, live music, carnival games, pumpkin beauty salon, and more.
Outdoor Travel Tours promises to showcase the “better side of Las Vegas” with half-day and full-day trips to the Valley of Fire. Their website invites you to “Spend your day exploring Valley of Fire’s fascinating landscape where you will see million-year-old sandstone formations, stunning bright colors, and twisting canyons.” Avoid the heat and book your fall adventure today.
The Iron Horse RV Resort in Elko, Nevada sits at the base of the Ruby Mountains. Ranked within one of the top RV parks by Trailer Life Magazine, Iron Horse provides the perfect base camp for historical ghost town tours, fishing, hiking, and more. If RV’ing isn’t your thing, consider renting one of their excellent cottages.
Listed as the number one campsite in Nevada by The Guardian, Cathedral Gorge state park offers a “dramatic series of canyons” that “have been eroded into the soft bentonite clay.” It is even more gorgeous when the weather starts to get cooler. The site has a hiking loop and stunning views. Before heading out, stock up on caffeine at the nearby Ghost Town Art & Coffee Co.
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Is the RV park not for you? Want to spend time on the water but don’t feel like renting a cabin? Cottonwood Cove Resort and Marina has you covered. Rent yourself a house boat and spend the fall outside on the deck as you drift along Lake Mead. House boat options include basic and luxury boats, sleeping as few as six or as many as 12.
Haunted corn mazes. Zombie paintball. Hay rides. Night and Day mazes. Experience all this and more at the Moapa Valley Corn Maze, one of the most popular and biggest in the state. The maze opens every October and lasts throughout the month.
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Enjoy over 60 acres of land in the Las Vegas valley at the Gilcrease Orchard. Open all year, visitors generally come in the fall to pick pumpkins. After selecting the perfect pumpkin, make sure to stop for a cup of their famous hot apple cider, made on-site with apples grown in their fields.
The “most talked about triathlon in Southern Nevada” is definitely not one to miss! There is a plethora of different races to join, including an Olympic Triathlon, a Sprint Triathlon, or Aquabike Race taking place at Boulder Beach. If you’re not confident in participating in the whole series, there are plenty of options for all levels of fitness! No matter what place you take, you can expect plenty of goodies including t-shirts and a medal for finishing your race.
There is so much to do at the Bonnie Springs Ranch in Las Vegas. “The Wild West is still as wild as ever” at the ranch’s most famous attraction “Old Town,” an authentic replica of a mining town from the 1880s. Experience a saloon, shooting gallery, opera house, chapel, and more, with reenacted gunfights and all. Not only is there this western historic site, there is also a petting zoo, horseback riding, a restaurant, and more!
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Hot Spots To Fish: Rock Creek, which empties into the Clark Fork River southeast of Missoula, Mt., has become a prime destination for brown trout in recent years. The creek has tons of 16- or 18-inch fish and is known more for numbers than size. Contact John Herzer at Blackfoot River Outfitters (406-542-7411, blackfootriver.com), or Blue Damsel Lodge, (406-825-3077, bluedamsel.com), for information about guide services or information regarding accommodations.
Find the best fishing spots near you:
If you’re more interested in going after a behemoth of a brown trout, contact Joe Gilsnyder at Trout Stalkers on the Madison in Ennis, Mt.. Joe and his crew of guides know of some fishing holes off the beaten path that harbor bigger fish (406-682-5150).
Tackle You’ll Need: Wherever you wind up fishing, tackle Rocky Mountain browns with a 9 1/2-foot, 6-weight rod such as an Orvis Helios 3. A 5-weight will work if you’re an experienced caster, but a 6-weight handles big streamers better.
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
Quick Tip: If you make a quartering cast upstream with a Wooly Bugger or similar pattern, let it dead-drift downstream until the current catches it and sweeps it up in the water column. Sometimes the darting motion, as the fly is caught in the current, will trigger a reaction strike from a following brownie.
Best Patterns: Fall browns will take nymphs and small dries such as the Blue-Winged Olive, but more likely the bigger fish will go after Size 2 Sparkle Minnows, Wooly Buggers, Clouser Minnows, Zonkers and Bighorn Specials fished on short leaders with no tippets.
If you’re fishing from a drift boat with a guide, regular weight-forward floating line will suffice. If you’re wading, a sinking-tip line probably is a better choice, depending on depth.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish