10 Best Day Trips From Silverado Ranch in Las Vegas
Living in Silverado Ranch, a suburban area within greater Las Vegas, is the ideal spot to travel from. There are many day trips close to this location.
You could be a nature lover or like exploring new cities and want to take a break from the Vegas Strip. There are many options within a short drive. Here’s a list of ten of the best day trips from Las Vegas.
1. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Just a short 25-minute drive from Silverado Ranch, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a natural wonder that offers a day and night difference from the neon lights of Las Vegas. It is known for its dramatic red sandstone peaks and unique rock formations. This natural beauty gives visitors a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and a scenic drive.
On this 13-mile Scenic drive, you can take in the breathtaking views of the canyon with several lookout points and trailheads along the way. For those adventurists who want to get up close and personal with nature, trails like the Calico Tanks or Ice Box Canyon offer hikes of varying difficulty, each rewarding you with spectacular views.
Pro Tip:
If you visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon you can avoid the heat and crowds. Remember your water and wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to hike.
Highlight:
The Calico Tanks Trail is a fairly challenging hike that creates a natural water tank with stunning views of Las Vegas in the distance.
2. Hoover Dam and Boulder City
A visit to Hoover Dam is a must-do day road trip from Las Vegas. It is only a 40-minute drive from Silverado Ranch. The engineering here is marvelous, and it was completed in 1936. The dam is proof that human ingenuity exists and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. There are guided tours that give you an in-depth look at the dam’s inner workings and the massive turbines that generate electricity for the surrounding areas.
It is just a short drive from the dam to Boulder City, a charming small town that was originally built to house the workers who constructed the Hoover Dam. A visit to the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum is a must; here you can enjoy a meal at one of the local eateries or stroll down the historic main street filled with unique shops and galleries.
Pro Tip:
If you are a history enthusiast, the Power Plant Tour at Hoover Dam is well worth the extra time, it gives you a closer look at the dam’s power generation capabilities.
Highlight:
The Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge (also known as the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge) has a spectacular view of the dam and the Colorado River. Take your time and enjoy the walk across.
3. Valley of Fire State Park
Going a bit further, just over an hour’s drive from Silverado Ranch, Valley of Fire State Park is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park. It is known for its beautiful red sandstone formations, petroglyphs, and surreal landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a science fiction movie. The park received its name from the fiery red rocks that seem to glow when the sun hits them just right and sets the valley on fire.
Valley of Fire is a sanctuary for any outdoor enthusiast. It has many trails to choose from, all leading to the park’s most iconic sights. It takes you to a unique wave-like sandstone formation that is a perfect photo opportunity.
Pro Tip:
The park can get extremely hot during the summer months. It is better to plan your visit during the cooler months or early in the mornings. Always carry extra water and sun protection.
Highlight:
The park’s Atlatl Rock features a staircase leading up to ancient petroglyphs, giving you a glimpse into the lives of the area’s early inhabitants.
4. Mount Charleston
The desert heat might become too much at some point. A quick 45-minute drive to Mount Charleston is a cool and refreshing outing. It is located in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. Mount Charleston offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking and horseback riding in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.
There are about 60 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs. There are cooler temperature areas like the dense forests and alpine scenery, making Mount Charleston a perfect year-round destination.
Pro Tip:
The Mount Charleston Lodge is a great spot to relax after a day of hiking. They have cozy cabins and a restaurant with a great view.
Highlight:
The Mary Jane Falls Trail is popular hike that features a waterfall that flows even in the dry summer months, and during winter, it transforms into a beautiful icefall.
5. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
For any water enthusiast, Lake Mead National Recreation is the place for you. It is a refreshing escape just 45 minutes from Silverado Ranch. This large reservoir was created by the Hoover Dam and is the largest in the States. It offers many opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and even kayaking.
Pro Tip:
For those who are into water sports, consider renting a boat or jet ski for the day. It is an ideal spot for a variety of activities.
Highlight:
Black Canyon, located below the Hoover Dam, is a popular kayaking and rafting destination with great views.
6. Pahrump and the Pahrump Valley Winery
If you want a different kind of day trip experience, take a trip to Pahrump, located about an hour from Silverado Ranch. Pahrump Valley Winery, is the largest award-winning winery in Nevada. It has guided tours, tastings, and a great dining experience at Symphony’s Restaurant. The winery is in a beautiful location that is surrounded by the Mojave Desert, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine.
Pro Tip:
When visiting during the fall, check out the annual Grape Stomp Festival at the winery. It is a fun and traditional event you can take part in.
Highlight:
There is outdoor seating at Symphony’s Restaurant, which is very peaceful and has great views from which to have a glass of wine.
7. Death Valley National Park
For the more adventurous, how about a day trip to Death Valley National Park? It is located about two hours from Silverado Ranch and has some of the most extreme and otherworldly landscapes in the country. It is known as the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. At Death Valley you can find a variety of unique geological features, including large salt flats, towering sand dunes, and colorful rock formations.
Pro Tip:
Death Valley has been known to be dangerously hot during the summer, so rather visit in the cooler months or early in the morning. Make sure your vehicle has air conditioning, and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Highlight:
Zabriskie Point has one of the best viewpoints in the park. Here, you can watch the sunrise or sunset.
8. Zion National Park
Zion National Park can be found two and a half hours from Silverado Ranch. You will find it is one of the most breathtaking national parks in the States. This park is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and iconic hikes; the perfect park for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pro Tip:
Zion can get very crowded, especially during peak season, so plan accordingly. The park has a shuttle system to reduce congestion and a convenient way to access the trailheads.
Highlight:
The Emerald Pools Trail is a great option for families, with easy hikes leading to waterfalls and natural pools where you can cool off.
9. Seven Magic Mountains
For a quick and colorful escape, the Seven Magic Mountains art installation is located just 20 minutes south of Silverado Ranch. This vibrant and large-scale public art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone consists of seven towers of brightly colored boulders stacked in the middle of the desert.
The installation is a striking contrast to the natural landscape and has become a popular spot for photos. It’s an easy and quick trip that can be combined with other nearby destinations or simply enjoyed as a brief detour.
Pro Tip:
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the harsh midday sun. The colorful rocks look particularly striking against the soft light during sunrise or sunset.
Highlight:
The installation is temporary, so take the opportunity to visit while it’s still on display.
10. Eldorado Canyon and Techatticup Mine
Get a taste of Nevada’s rich mining history and visit Eldorado Canyon and the Techatticup Mine. They have day trips and are only an hour from Silverado Ranch. You can take a guided tour that takes you deep into the mine’s tunnels, where you can learn about the lives of the miners who once worked here. Eldorado Canyon is also worth exploring, with its rugged landscape, abandoned buildings, vintage vehicles, and other relics from the Old West. This is a popular filming location for movies and music videos, adding to its unique charm.
Pro Tip:
The mine tends to be cool and damp, so bring a light jacket and proper shoes.
Highlight:
Take some time to explore the nearby Colorado River, where you can rent a kayak or simply enjoy the scenic views.
Conclusion
Living in Silverado Ranch is a great place and starting point for a wide range of exciting day trips from Las Vegas. If you are more drawn to the natural beauty of rock formations or historic and engineering adventures here, you will find something for everyone just a short drive away.
For those looking to move to Silverado Ranch, Signature Management LV is here to help. Contact us today to learn all about our Copper Creek apartments that are located in the heart of Silverado Ranch today!
