Extreme heat keeps Lake Mead trails closed

It’s no secret that this summer has been hot for Las Vegas, where extreme heat is keeping some hiking trails closed.

The National Weather Service said Tuesday’s high temperatures reached 103 degrees. The low hit 81 degrees, and if it stays that way overnight, the area will have reached a record warm-minimum temperature, meteorologist Caleb Steele said.

For the rest of the week, temperatures will exceed 100 degrees in the valley.

Goldstrike Canyon and Arizona Hot Spring trails within Lake Mead National Recreation Area will remain closed until Oct. 1 when temperatures are cooler, officials said in a new release.

Goldstrike Canyon is a strenuous hike, requiring bouldering and climbing, the release said.

“People are miscalculating their ability to hike these strenuous trails in the summer, and it’s not only endangering their lives, it’s endangering the lives of other visitors and rescue crews,” Acting Superintendent for Lake Mead Patrick Gubbins said.

Visitors can still access the popular hot springs via the Colorado River and the River Mountains Loop Trail. The Historic Railroad Trail will remain open.

Wednesday's high is predicted to be a sunny 104 degrees with a low of 83 degrees.

Review-Journal writer Ricardo Torres contributed to this report.

Contact Cassandra Taloma at ctaloma@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0381. Find her on Twitter: @CassandraTaloma