Trade neon for Navajo sandstone on a quick escape from Las Vegas to Valley of Fire State Park. Pick up your car rental at LAS and cruise I‑15 North to Exit 75, then follow Valley of Fire Highway to the West Entrance.
Top Sights (West → East)
- Beehives: Wind‑carved domes and a perfect first stop.
- Atlatl Rock: Short stairway to panels of petroglyphs.
- Visitor Center: Exhibits, water, and up‑to‑date trail info.
- Mouse’s Tank Road: Photo magnets at Fire Canyon Overlook and Rainbow Vista.
- Fire Wave: A short, exposed hike to candy‑striped sandstone—start early.
- White Domes: 1‑mile loop with a small slot and movie set remains.
When to Go & How Long
Allocate 5–7 hours door‑to‑door from the Strip for a relaxed loop with photo breaks and a picnic. Late fall to early spring offers the best temperatures; summers require extreme heat precautions.
Park Basics
The park operates sunrise to sunset; campgrounds have 24‑hour access for registered campers. Cell signal is limited, there is no fuel in the park, and services are minimal—arrive prepared with water, snacks, and sun protection.
Sample One‑Day Itinerary
Enter via the West Entrance → Beehives → Atlatl Rock → Visitor Center → Mouse’s Tank Road (Fire Canyon, Rainbow Vista) → Fire Wave → White Domes → exit toward I‑15. Reverse the loop if you enter from the East.
Finish with an easy return to town. Browse Las Vegas locations or our Las Vegas car hire page. With Hola Car Rentals you get All‑Inclusive+ coverage, Free Cancellation, and Cashback on tolls where applicable.
Leave No Trace
Stay on signed trails, don’t climb on fragile formations after rain, and pack out everything you pack in.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is timed entry required? No; arrive early for limited parking at Fire Wave and White Domes.
- Do I need 4WD? No—paved roads reach the major sights. Check conditions before using side roads.
- Are drones allowed? Nevada State Parks restrict drone use—verify current rules with park staff.
Heat & Desert Safety
- Carry at least 3 liters of water per adult in warm months; double for longer hikes.
- Wear grippy shoes; sandstone can be slick, especially after rain.
- Never leave people or pets in a parked car—temperatures soar even in spring.
Combine with Lake Mead or Hoover Dam
If you’re making a weekend of it, pair Valley of Fire with Lake Mead overlooks or Hoover Dam. Keep fuel topped up—services are spread out in the desert.
Book through Hola Car Rentals to keep things simple: All‑Inclusive+ coverage, Cashback on tolls where applicable, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours if the forecast looks too hot for hiking.
Photography Tips
- Golden hour paints Mouse’s Tank Road with soft light and long shadows—aim for early morning.
- Use a wide‑angle lens for sweeping road shots and a short telephoto to compress the layers at Fire Canyon Overlook.
- Carry a blower to clear sand from lenses; avoid changing lenses in the wind.
Route Notes
Access is straightforward from I‑15. If you’re coming from the east side of the valley or pairing the trip with Lake Mead, consider entering via the East Entrance and reversing the loop. Always top up fuel before leaving the metro area.
What to Wear & Bring
- Sun hat, breathable layers, and UV sunglasses—the rock reflects light.
- Grippy closed‑toe shoes for slickrock and sandy steps.
- Plenty of water, salty snacks, a paper map, and a small first‑aid kit.
Facilities & Services
Expect limited shade and services. The Visitor Center is your best stop for restrooms, water refills, and current trail advice. Some trailheads have vault toilets, but there are no restaurants or gas stations inside the park.
Extend the Adventure
Got extra time? Pair Valley of Fire with nearby Lake Mead overlooks or stop at Seven Magic Mountains on the way back to the Strip. For another day, try Red Rock Canyon’s Scenic Drive (timed entry may apply seasonally) as a cool‑weather alternative.
