Hiking

Hiker descends into valley with red sandstone

NPS Photo - Andrew Cattoir

 

Hiking in Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Although most visitors are attracted to Lake Mead National Recreation Area because of lakes Mead and Mohave, more than 87% of the park protects a vast area of the eastern Mojave Desert. Perhaps the best way to explore this diverse ecosystem is on foot, traveling across open expanses of rock formations that contain all the colors of the rainbow.

Which trail is right for you? If it's your first visit, we recommend focusing on the main Boulder Beach area, a stretch of Lakeshore Road between Boulder City Parkway and Northshore Road. Here you will find the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail and River Mountains Loop Trail where you will find the history and main backdrop views that Lake Mead is known for.

All trails offer a unique view of the beauty of this park, so we encourage you to plan your hikes based on the amount of time you have and your personal hiking abilities. Trailheads can fill up by early morning both in the summer and winter, so it is recommended that you start early.

Wintertime, between the months of September and April, attracts most of the hiking crowds as temperatures are cool. Summertime is often greeted by extreme temperatures. If you plan to hike during the summer, please note seasonal trail closures on some of our trails. On trails that are open during the summer, it is recommended that you pack plenty of water, salty snacks, and sunscreen. Hiking during the day time in the summer months is not recommended as temperatures can reach 120 degrees F in the shade.

 
Two people with a dog hike on a trail with a body of water in the distance.
Easy Hikes

With its close proximity to the Lake Mead Visitor Center and compacted trail surface, the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail is a fan favorite.

A trail cuts through a desert landscape with a lake in the distance.
Moderate Hikes

Lake View Trail is one of the many moderately rated hikes within Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

A group of hikers descending into a canyon.
Strenuous Hikes

Strenuous hikes within Lake Mead National Recreation Area are rated that way for a reason! Be prepared before you go!

 
People hiking on a trail in a desert landscape
Hikes Around Lake Mohave

Lake Mohave has several hikes through the Black Canyon region and down close to Katherine Landing.

A trail cuts through a desert landscape.
Hikes Around Lake Mead

Lake Mead has several trails that boast history and magnificent views.

 
Red rocks in a desert landscape
1-4 Hour Hikes

Only have a few hours or half a day to get a hike in the park? Don't sweat it! View all of our 1-4 hour hikes.

Three hikers hike in a canyon
4+ Hour Hikes

Here for more than half a day and looking for longer hikes to do? Lake Mead has plenty of options!

 

INFORMATION

 
Help us protect our parks. Leave no trace.

Last updated: August 14, 2025

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

601 Nevada Way
Boulder City, NV 89005

Phone:

702 293-8990
Emergency: Dial 911 (24 hours) Visitor and Recreation Information: Dial 702-293-8990 Park Business and Administration: Dial 702-293-8906

Contact Us