• Sunset at Lake Mead's Boulder Basin

    Lake Mead

    National Recreation Area AZ,NV

Pinto Valley Wilderness

Hiker enjoying the Pinto Valley in a wilderness

Michelle Zuro-Kreimer 1/7/05

Chanteil Walter (compliance specialist) hiking in Pinto Valley

Comprised of rugged hills and scenic valleys, this unit contains Guardian Peak, one of the highest peaks within the area. The northern side of Boulder Canyon is formed by steep cliffs and barren rock which drop to the waters of Lake Mead in a dramatic fashion. Watch for the red sandstone outcroppings which merge with the green desert vegetation and the grays, browns, and yellows of the desert floor. This unique place is habitat for the rare Las Vegas bear poppy plant.

Did You Know?

Desert Monkey Flower in bloom

Some desert flower annuals avoid drought and intense heat by surviving as seeds stored in the soil, remaining dormant until conditions are just right to bloom into breathtaking flowers. More...