By most definitions, giant sequoias are the largest trees on Earth, and they will surely inspire awe in anyone fortunate enough to see them. And because they grow within a long weekend’s journey of Southern Nevada, you can be among the fortunate. But if you intend to do that this summer, it’s best to plan now, for this kind of trip will be most pleasant if you make reservations, allowing time to incorporate other activities.
Grapevine Canyon, located toward the southern end of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, is said to be among the best of all places to see the intriguing Native American rock art called petroglyphs. It’s certainly one of the easiest to visit. It’s especially good if you want to take small children or other folks who can’t hike long distances, as the best petroglyph panels are at the mouth of the canyon only about a quarter-mile from the parking area.
While the native California fan palm (Washingtonia filifera) can be found in several areas in California, including Joshua Tree National Park and near Palm Springs, there is one hidden spot in Arizona where it also can be found.
If you’re one of the smart hikers who keeps a list of seasonal hikes – those that should be attempted only at some particular time of year – Fortification Hill should be near the top of your winter list.
If you visit Parker, Ariz., on a weekend, one of the trip’s highlights should be heading some five miles into the Buckskin Mountains via a gravel but well-maintained road to visit the Nellie E. Saloon.
Most people aren’t aware that Death Valley National Park boasts some 1,000 miles of paved and gravel roads, more than any of other of our nation’s parks. One road in particular, the unpaved, 27-mile Racetrack Road, offers one of the finest day outings in the park.
Lincoln County, Clark County’s neighbor to the north, is home to dozens of the finest rock art sites in Nevada. Of course, you could spend several days or longer visiting these sites, but even in a day’s time, you can visit a couple of them and return home quite satisfied.
When you’re looking for fall foliage colors, it’s best to look in a region with plenty of variation in elevation.
If you have ever driven to Utah from Las Vegas, your route was by way of Mesquite. Most of us just bypass the town, little realizing there are good reasons to stop at least a few hours. Mesquite has preserved many of its historic buildings and much of its small-town charm.
Any time of year is fine for driving the 13-mile scenic loop of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, but by late September, it becomes fun to get out of the car and touch the landscape with your boots. A good place to start is Ice Box Canyon.
