Las Vegas—a city popular for gambling, lasciviousness, and party life—has been seriously misconstrued, especially among visitors. Tourists gather at the Strip to indulge in gambling, chill out in rooftop pools or blow off steam in the hottest clubs, and leave, believing that that is all Las Vegas has to offer.
Unknown to them, a short trip away from the Strip would see them immersed in the center of remarkable outdoor adventures. From mountain biking, hiking, skydiving, and rappelling to zip lining and snowboarding—Las Vegas is definitely the city for ultimate adventures.
Go further away on a 4-hour trip and you will discover 13 state parks, six national parks, and an extended area of public land. With these resources readily available to the public, it should be practically impossible for casinos to contend with the thrilling adventures waiting for fun lovers.
Kayak Down The Colorado River
In the world of active adventures, paddling across the Hoover dam and navigating through the Colorado River is the most thrilling. The river runs across the Grand Canyon and is a preferred paddling site with many other side hikes. You definitely should not miss this experience. There are outfitters in the area who offer kayaks for rent and arrange transportation. The Colorado River is only a 40-minute drive from the city.
Hike to The Gold Strike Hot Springs
There are few pleasures of life better than enjoying a dip in a hot spring, particularly after a long or hard-hitting hike. Hike to one of the hot springs in Las Vegas to revel in a rejuvenating soak in the natural hot springs. The Hoover Dam has other springs, but you’d get the most refreshing treat at Gold Strike Hot Springs.
Cruising on Lake Mead
Lake Mead is a man-made lake and currently an oasis in the center of the desert outside the city. The lake is a preferred playground for jet skiing and swimming, particularly during summer. Get your SCUBA certification while you’re here too!
Zipline Across Bootleg Canyon
Enjoy the remarkable desert canyons from a stunning perspective by going on the amazing four-line course at up to 60 mph. Begin your trip from the peak of Red Mountain, 3,800 feet above sea level and hover across the canyon down to the desert floor. You will be locked into paragliding harness for the half-mile journey, enough to enjoy the view. If you want a more adventurous experience, you can request for the sunset or full moon zip line trip.
Bouldering in Red Rock Canyon
Take a 30-minute trip west to discover the offerings of the Red Rock Canyon. The Canyon is a natural conservation range with seasonal waterfalls, sandstone bluffs, and a desert primed for hiking. You can try your bouldering skills at the canyon and make a trip to the top. You can also get bicycles if you want to tour the wildlife expanse and enjoy the scenes.
Ski Down Mount Charleston
At the peak of the summer when it is almost impossible to tolerate the blacktop on the strip, take a trip west to Mount Charleston. Skiing and hiking on this amazing mountain is definitely a refreshing break to take. At the peak, the mountain is remarkably cooler. Just arm yourself with sunscreen, a big hat and plenty of water and you’re good to go.
Enjoy a Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
This is perhaps the most exhilarating, romantic, and preferred way to enjoy Las Vegas. Take off in a hot air balloon to enjoy the unprecedented experience and a chance to take remarkable pictures. A sail in the wind, more than 2,500 feet away is definitely an adventure you don’t want to miss.
