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Valley of Fire State Park is named for its fiery red Aztec Sandstone formations — 1.4 billion-year-old rock that glows orange and red in the desert light. 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas, it's Nevada's oldest and largest state park, and one of the most photographically extraordinary landscapes in North America.
Getting There
Take I-15 North to Exit 75, then follow Valley of Fire Highway 40 miles east. The entrance fee is $10/vehicle. Most visitors come from Las Vegas and back in a day — the main scenic area is accessible in 3–4 hours including stops.
Best Spots
- White Domes Trail — 1.1-mile loop through canyon slots and spectacular rock formations. The best hike in the park.
- Fire Wave — 1.5-mile hike to swirling red-and-white rock formations. Requires coordination with park.
- Elephant Rock — The most photographed single formation. Roadside access, 5 minutes from the car.
- Ancient Petroglyphs at Mouse's Tank — 0.75-mile trail past Ancestral Puebloan rock carvings.