Most people do not equate Las Vegas with outdoor adventure fun such as mountain biking; however, when you consider the wide-open spaces that are just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, you can be sure that there are plenty of spots to challenge your body to a single track test.
When to Go
The weather in Las Vegas cooperates with outdoor enthusiasts more often than you might think. Although the summer months of June, July, and August are usually out of the question for desert bike rides, fall and spring offer spectacular conditions for rigorous outdoor activity. Winter does bring colder temperatures; nevertheless, Las Vegas does not typically get snow, so trails may still be accessible. It’s critical to consider the possibility of flash floods during the wetter months.
Where to Find Trails
When you think of adventure and thrilling excitement, Las Vegas should be at the forefront of your thoughts. We don’t mean simply gambling and staying up until your eyes bulge out of your head; rather, single track riding and extreme downhill and cross-country mountain biking are where it’s at. Mountain bike trails can be found throughout Southern Nevada, from Lake Mead and Boulder City to Red Rock Canyon.
Tours and Rentals
Below you’ll find outfitters who handle bike tours and rentals around Southern Nevada. Boulder City is about 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, while Red Rock Canyon is roughly 20 minutes away. Consequently, trying to hit trails in both parts of town can be a challenge on the same day; therefore, make sure to check sunrise and sunset times as winter days certainly seem much shorter in Las Vegas than you might expect.
- Bootleg Canyon Trails – 1021 Yucca St, Boulder City NV 89005 (40 minutes Southeast of the Strip for intense trail riding)
- Mcghie’s Biking Outpost – 4035 S Fort Apache, Las Vegas NV 89147 (Rent a bike or any gear needed before heading into Red Rock Canyon)
- River Mountains Loop Trail – A partnership-created area that is being improved on a regular basis
- Las Vegas Cyclery – 8221 West Charleston, Suite 101, Las Vegas, Nevada 89117 (Rentals, tours, and sales of bikes and accessories)
If you decide to visit Red Rock Canyon, make sure to consider the extensive hiking trails and rock climbing opportunities available in the park. Fall, winter, and spring are the busiest times of the year, so plan for a larger number of tourists and sightseers. If you are considering making outdoor adventure the focal point of your trip, find a room at Red Rock Resort as it is a quick 10-minute drive to the gate of the park.
