Living in or visiting the desert, you're likely to not expect a park that's worthy of your time. This is Las Vegas, though, so the unexpected should really be expected. Located southeast of the city just off of Tropicana Blvd. The Clark County Wetlands Park is 2,900 acres of pure, natural preservation, with winding trails, plenty of wondrous animals, and an oasis of green that overlooks the city of Las Vegas. When you're looking for that greenery to break-up the expanse of tan that is the desert, Clark County Wetlands Park is a better place than any to get your fill.
Must see and must do at Clark County Wetlands Park
Some of the bigger attractions of the Wetlands Park are the five trails that snake throughout. Each trail provides a different view of the park along with picnic areas and more than enough photo opportunities for aspiring photographers.
Accompanying the trails is a Nature Center & Exhibit Hall, filled with interactive exhibits that teach children and adults all about Nevada's wildlife and the importance of natural preservation. Specifically for the children, there is a neighboring park with climbable animal art and a rock climbing wall.
Best and worst time to go to Clark County Wetlands Park
Though the park provides quite a bit of shade, travelers may want to avoid the Wetlands Park during June through August, when Las Vegas tends to be at its hottest. Summer travelers should stick to early morning visits, while the temperature is still cooler.
Early morning or near dusk attendance will produce the best views of the Wetlands' wildlife.
Admission to Clark County Wetlands Park
Access to the Clark County Wetlands Park is completely free, though special events may come with their own charge.
Wildlife at Clark County Wetlands Park
At the Clark County Wetlands Park, you will likely spot coyotes, beavers, ducks, soft shell turtles, and the white-billed American coot. The park is home to over 212 species of birds and over 70 species of mammals and reptiles. Hikers with a keen eye may see plenty of bearded dragon and other small lizards skittering about.
Insider tip for Clark County Wetlands Park
On your first visit to the Clark County Wetlands Park, check out one of the Wetlands Snapshots. These 30-minute informational sessions held most Saturdays and Sundays will provide quick bits of information about the park, allowing you a well-informed visit.
Author's bio: Mark is a Vegas local and freelance writer with expertise in Las Vegas nightlife, entertainment, and video gaming. Contact Mark and see more of his work at Prototype Freelancing.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is the most popular natural wonder in Las Vegas, a perfect short day trip for tourists or a longer visit for people interested in hiking and camping. Its distinctive red rock formations offer beautiful views and are some of the most recognizable images of the state of Nevada.
Must see and do at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
The 13-mile scenic loop is the most convenient and most popular way to see the park, and it can be traversed via car or bike or on foot. If you have a little more time, there are numerous hiking trails, ranging from the easy Lost Creek trail designed for children to the more difficult Ice Box Canyon trail that takes you to a hidden waterfall, cool even during the hot summer. Campers can stay overnight in the Red Rock Canyon Campground.
Best and worst time to go to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock has a variety of natural beauty, but it's still part of the desert, which means that temperatures during the summer (from about mid-May to late August) can regularly top 100 degrees, so it's probably best to avoid hiking or climbing during those periods. The campgrounds are closed entirely during the summer. Fall (from September to mid-November) and spring (from March through early May) bring the mildest weather, and are the best times of the year for outdoor activities in and around Las Vegas.
Admission to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Single-day admission for vehicles or pedestrians is around $5, and yearly passes range from $30 to $50. Prices for camping start at about $15 for individuals.
Wildlife at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Rabbits, squirrels and burros are the most common animals spotted in Red Rock Canyon, which is also home to a small number of protected desert tortoises (including Mojave Max, a sort of desert version of groundhog Punxsutawney Phil). Common plants include Joshua trees, yucca and agave.
Insider tip for Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Admission is charged per vehicle, so if your party loads up in a single vehicle, you can save on admission to the scenic loop, then get out of the car and spread out for hiking and climbing.
Author's bio: Josh Bell is a Las Vegas-based writer (and 20-year resident) and the film and TV critic for Las Vegas Weekly. Find him on Twitter and Facebook.