Valley of Fire

The Valley of Fire State Park is situated just 35 miles north east of Las Vegas near the village of Overton, NV. You can reach it by driving north on interstate 15 for approximately 30 miles, then turning east on Route 169 at the Moapa Indian Reservation. It is less than an hour drive from the Las Vegas strip.

Location for many Hollywood films

This peculiar desert landscape contains a wide variety of volcanic rock and eroded red sandstone in fascinating multihued formations. The park gets its name from the fiery appearance of the red cliffs when the morning sunset strikes them. The strange geological features give this area an unearthly look. In fact, the Valley of Fire has been used as the location for many Hollywood films including one of the Star Trek series and several prehistoric sagas.

Desert Hike

Most of the Park is easily accessible along route 169 and via a short access road into the hills. It has a visitor center with interpretive exhibits about the geology, archeology, flora and fauna of the region. There are numerous walking trails along the roads including some handicapped accessible trails. It has a small campground and many locations for rock climbing or bouldering.

Many Indian petroglyphs

Petroglyphs

The Valley of Fire State Park is open daily from dawn to dusk. It costs only a modest three dollars per vehicle entry fee collected on the honor system. The visitor center is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. This is one of the greatest bargains in the Las Vegas area. I suggest you take a half-day break from the slot machines to pay a visit to this fascinating geological attraction.

Written by: Mike Leco