St. George to Valley of Fire State Park

Head south on I-15 for about 70 miles through the Virgin River Gorge. Take Exit 75 near Moapa onto Valley of Fire Highway (NV-169). Follow this scenic road east for about 15 miles to the park entrance. The total drive is approximately 80 miles and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

The park has two entrances connected by a scenic loop road. The west entrance off NV-169 is the most common approach from I-15. The east entrance connects to Lake Mead via Northshore Road (NV-167) and offers a scenic alternative route back.

Valley of Fire is only 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas, making it easy to combine with a Vegas trip. Many visitors stop at the park on the way to or from Las Vegas for a few hours of hiking and sightseeing.

The park's most iconic hike — a 1.5-mile round-trip trail leading to swirling bands of red, pink, and white sandstone resembling a frozen ocean wave. Moderate difficulty with some sandy and rocky sections. One of the most photographed spots in Nevada.

A massive natural sandstone arch that looks remarkably like an elephant. Located right off the main road with a very short walk from the parking area. One of the most recognizable landmarks in the park.

Ancient rock art dating back over 3,000 years, carved by the Ancestral Puebloan people. A metal staircase leads up to an excellent vantage point for close viewing of the detailed petroglyphs. One of the best petroglyph sites in the Southwest.

A 0.75-mile round-trip easy hike through a sandy wash to a natural rock basin that collects rainwater. The trail passes numerous petroglyphs along the canyon walls. Named after a Southern Paiute who used the area as a hideout in the 1890s.

The main park road connects the two entrances and passes all major formations and trailheads. Drive the full loop for sweeping views of red sandstone formations, multicolored rock layers, and desert vistas. Allow at least 1-2 hours for stops.

A beautiful natural sandstone arch right next to the road with a short accessible path. Easy to visit and photograph. One of several arches visible throughout the park.

1.5 miles round trip, moderate. The signature hike featuring swirling sandstone layers in red, pink, and white. Some exposed sections with no shade. Trailhead is well-marked off the main road.

1.25 miles, easy to moderate. This loop trail passes through a narrow slot canyon, past movie filming locations, and through spectacular white and red rock formations. One of the most varied short hikes in the park.

0.75 miles round trip, easy. A sandy wash walk past excellent petroglyphs to a natural water-collecting basin. Perfect for all ages and fitness levels.

5.75 miles one way, moderate to strenuous. The longest trail in the park connecting Fire Wave to the White Domes area. Offers solitude and panoramic desert views. Requires a car shuttle or out-and-back hike.

The best time to visit Valley of Fire. Temperatures are pleasant (70-90°F), wildflowers may bloom, and the light is excellent for photography. Weekends can be busy.

Another excellent window with comfortable temperatures and beautiful golden light. Fewer crowds than spring. The desert cools down nicely for hiking.

Extremely hot — temperatures regularly exceed 110°F on the valley floor. If visiting in summer, go at sunrise or shortly before sunset. Bring abundant water. Midday hiking is dangerous.

Mild and pleasant with temperatures in the 50-65°F range. The fewest crowds and excellent hiking conditions. Cold mornings but comfortable afternoons.

Valley of Fire charges $10 per vehicle for day use. Annual Nevada State Parks passes are available for $100 and cover unlimited visits to all Nevada state parks.

There is no water available on trails. The visitor center has restrooms and water fountains. Bring plenty of water — at least 1 liter per person per hour of hiking in warm months. There are no stores inside the park.

The best light for photography is during the first and last hours of daylight, when the sandstone glows with intense color. Midday light can wash out the reds. A polarizing filter helps deepen the blue sky against the red rock.

Two campgrounds offer sites with shade structures, grills, and restrooms. Atlatl Rock Campground has 44 sites. Arch Rock Campground has 29 sites. First-come, first-served or reservable online.