What amazing jewels are in your backyard?…read more Go outside and explore the beautiful world around you. Shall we close our eyes visualize what you can see and feel? While walking one can caught a glimpse of life that just passed an individual by. This last year life almost took a turn for the worst . Prior experiences and issues came back from the dead to haunt me. But here I stand, thinking and not wanting to waste time anymore. Look into the future you can see change coming . In fact the only constant is "change in life. " Being a burden is not something anyone wants to do. Time to pull one self up here we go. Life is about living . Center and ground yourself! You can feel the calm. You are outside and ready to go walk it off . Life is peaking and is going to be happy . We need to accept the change and accomplishments. What are we going to do in the future? We can keep the journey moving along and forward with the progress of self discovery. We are going to continue and breathe the air of change and look at that which the universe is creating and showing us . What's that we are seeing ? The universe paints for me color rainbows "change is good." Let's listen and learn. Change is good and is coming ! Here we go !

Vegas is Sun City! From the Spring Mountain slopes to the Lake Mead valleys, hiking trails follow…read morethe sun. Down in the southernmost border of the Las Vegas Valley where the rooftops of the Anthem Master Planned Community merge with the open spaces of the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area lies a 2.10 ribbon of asphalt and gravel named the Nevada Power Trail. The Nevada Power Trail is an unadvertised jewel. There is a want for parking directly off the trail. An extended walk is necessary for hikers to reach the trail. When I did this hike, I parked at Esselmont Park, which is a pocket park off of Anthem Highlands Drive.* From there I walked south on Anthem Highlands Drive a couple hundred feet to the 4-way stop sign. This is Democracy Drive. I crossed it, then made a left onto the eastbound sidewalk. After a couple of hundred feet I saw a pedestrian Crossing sign then turned right onto the spur trail through a Canyon of fenced off yards toward the Nevada Power Trail. The Nevada Power Trail is easy to spot on account of the power lines. Throughout the duration of the trail, Nevada Power Trail is parallel to the power lines. These aren't the massive towers similar to those things marching out of Hoover Dam. These are the poles you would recognize alongside a Las Vegas surface Street. These are the same power lines that are parallel to the Anthem East Trail alongside the east border of Anthem and the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. When I did this hike, I made a left to go northeast. On the way back, I'd hike the segment that ends to the west. Lately I have been suffering from a foot problem that is an ankle sprain and plantar fascilitis. Because Vegas is Sun City, I needed to celebrate its greatest asset out on a trail despite my foot pain. On Google Maps, I saw the Nevada Power Trail. An hour later, I saw it in person. When I stepped onto the Nevada Power Trail, I was on an asphalt line in the sand between the Las Vegas Metropolitan Area and the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. As I glanced to the right, I took in the beautiful open spaces of the desert reaching toward the McCullough Mountain Range. The Nevada Power Trail is a gateway to fascinating hikes in the desert. Trails reaching into the horizons of the desert branched off to the right. As I glanced off to the left, I'd take in the manicured fenced in yards of Anthem. After steep elevation gains, the views to the left changed into scenic overlooks above rooftops reaching across the Las Vegas Strip toward the Spring Mountains. As the trail reached its only surface street crossing with Democracy Drive, I'd rest at a set of benches to enjoy the scenic overlook. By this time, I had climbed a couple of hills and walked on topography that was mostly pavement with a gravelly segment. After crossing Democracy Drive, Nevada Power Trail changes from a boundary between Vegas and the desert to suburban. On a straight paved stretch the Nevada Power Trail is a linear landscaped buffer separating fenced in backyards. Being in Anthem, graffiti is relatively nonexistent. The deeper I hiked on this stretch, the taller and closer the hill in front of me grew. And being Anthem, there were homes on top of the hills. The trail turned toward the right intersecting with a non name trail bound for access points to Anthem. The trail now made a course upward on what I consider a steep hill. If you are familiar with the Three Sisters of the River Mountains Loop Trail, this incline is a similar beast. The homes that were on the right side returned to the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. At the top of the hill Nevada Power Trail ends at a cul-de-sac. There is a dirt trail that follows the same power lines that in a short distance change into Anthem East Trail and intersect with the Black Mountain Trail. The 2.10 mile walk back was better because it was mostly downhill. I'd get to explore the short segment West of the spur trail toward Esselmont Park. The gravelly surface replaces the pavement as Nevada Power Trail climbs a hill that reaches another scenic overlook over Las Vegas. As Nevada Power Trail reaches the end where Anthem merges with the desert, there is a short paved section. It looks like a dirt trail follows the power lines into the horizon. The geography geek in me believes these are the same Powerlines that meet up with Las Vegas Boulevard South of Sloan. Because Vegas is Sun City, I have to be out on the trails that follow the sun. By the summer, I want to turn my dream of the Nevada Power Trail leading me onto the trails that into the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area into reality. Optimistically I will be back on the Nevada Power Trail. *For directions to Esselmont Park from I-215. take Eastern Southbound to the end. Turn right on Anthem Parkway. At the third traffic signal turn right on Bicentennial. At the stop sign turn left on Anthem Highlands Drive. Esselmont Park is on there right.

One of our favorite medium level hikes. Takes us about 3 hours or less to do the whole loop around…read morethe mountain for the Petroglyph trail as they're still building out the parking lot center so starting from the road. We were lucky enough to spot a bighorn sheep in the distance at the very top of one of the mountains! Wear hiking shoes for the rocky terrain and a hat for the no shade. Recommend to start early at 8 am min. if you do the whole loop. It's cool to see all the Petroglyphs! There's not a lot but enough on the walls in a certain section of the trail.

"One touch of nature, makes the whole world kin." Willam Shakespeare…read more After a long "dark winter," the journey of life had taken the dark path. Joy was eliminated and elusive in my life . Lots of things changed at home. One needs to get back and kin with nature. Being out side is where "one" feels most alive . It's time to start a new journey and chapter of change in life. This particular piece of protected land is located in my backyard, per say . One might ask, hiking trails that are in the desert. Why would one even consider hiking here? It's too hot! It's just dust and rocks! Why? Actually, at one time this was a thriving community, it's a protected community for all to enjoy and come see petroglyphs from Ancient individuals that once called this area home. This area in an inactive volcanic region. It's dormant for now. In the after effects of a volcano eruption or activity it leaves fertile soil that can yield lots of crops with little effort. The lava that flowed under the ground in tubes can provide shelter for those that once called this area home. Many residents of days past have lived close to volcanos that have gone dormant. The natural resources can be used and the heat keeps the area warm enough naturally. If you are able to keep taking the trail all the way around and look around you will see petroglyphs. This hike is about six miles all the way around . Make sure and start early it's an amazing glance into the past . The mountain hug you as you climb and crawl over water falls from the past. It's an incredible experience. It's the journey and how you experience and explore. Get out and enjoy life . Don't let life pass you by. Make each day special. Nature is beautiful and it has been preserved from the past for generations to see

This is a favorite trail of mine. It's a paved walking path for a good first leg and then gets a…read morelittle rough, depending on how far up you go. It has a gradual incline which can be a pleasant challenge for some. During the hotter months it can be a bit of a punishing experience as there's no shade or trees, so just be aware. This trail is in proximity to a baseball field (fly balls should be considered if you intend to park your car at the trail head base) and a large park which is busy most times I've visited. The trail itself is not as busy, though, which is pleasant. Something else that is pleasant are the lovely panoramic views of Henderson and the Vegas Valley. This trail is for sure worth visiting.

Currently training for a 5k race that's coming up next month and I decided to hit up Anthem East…read moreTrail over by Del Webb Middle School. I've hiked this trail a couple times before with my fam and it's been a long time since I've been back. The weather is finally cool enough for me to take walks outside again and I like that. With the record breaking heat that we had over the summer, it was just too hot to go for a walk outside. My favorite part about hiking these trails is that I get to enjoy the amazing views of the mountains, The Strip, and all other parts of the Las Vegas valley while I get my steps in. Dogs can tag along with you, but be aware that coyotes and rattlesnakes are very active along this trail. Also be sure to carry plenty of water and fully charged phone just in case. I hiked solo and didn't want to go way far out on the trail, so I just stayed where I could see all the views of the city. But I managed to reach my goal of 3.5 miles!

One of my favorite hiking spots ! You can hit up downtown…read moreBoulder City in your way in or out. Either fuel up for your hike or after working up an appetite. I recommend Southwest Diner if the weather is good to sit outside. The hime is good for families, big groups or solo missions. It's mostly flat with lots of beautiful views. In the heat the tunnels allow for a break from the sun and there are cute seating areas for many picture opportunities. If you want a bit more exploration and exertion there are side trails and extensions you can take as well

I've hiked this mountain bike trail twice in the last few weeks and it's a great hike with some…read morechallenging terrain. It is a 4.6 mile loop around the ridges behind the Railroad Pass Casino. You access this trail from the rear of the parking area at the Railroad Pass Casino just before Boulder City. At that rear parking area, you'll see a kiosk which has some interesting history of the area and the entrance to the River Mountain Loop Trail is there. Walk up to the paved trail and start heading for Boulder City. In about 20 feet, you'll notice a foot path going off to your left. Leave the bike/walking trail there and head toward the ridge. You'll soon cross the railroad tracks. Keep following this use trail and you soon arrive at the mountain bike trail. From there, the route is obvious for the first half of the hike. The hike follows the mountain bike trail as it loops around several ridges. After one of the ridges, after you make the turn east, you'll start to see the Cascata Golf Course owned by Caesars Entertainment. There a fence separating the bike trail from the private property. As you continue on the hike, you'll soon get a view of the driving range practice area and then you'll see the man made waterfall that was put in when MGM originally built the course. There are some areas of rough basalt rock and areas where the bikers have put some large boulders to fill in some of the washed out areas. There are some great views of the Eldorado Dry Lake bed area and you can see the solar power plants along US 95 heading toward Searchlight. About halfway into the hike, you come to a saddle. This is the highest point on the hike and you have a panoramic view of the Las Vegas Valley. You can see Mount Charleston in the Spring Mountains on the west side. This is a good place to take a break and have a snack. From here, it's basically all downhill. There are several trails here but if you follow the main trail and stay to your left when you come to a fork, you'll end up rounding the east side of the last ridge and the Railroad Pass Casino will come into sight. After the last turn behind the casino, walk down to the bike path, cross the railroad tracks again, and then follow and old road into the upper parking area where you left your car. Notes: This hike can be done with sneakers but it's always best to wear hiking boots on this kind of terrain for extra safety. Some of the scree in the down part is a bit slippery and boots serve you well. As with all hiking, take plenty of water with you. In my photos, I have included a route track on Google Earth from my GPS track. If you want the track for your GPS unit, send me a message! This is a fun hike with some great views. Happy hiking!

7.1 mile hike. 3.5 one way and 3.5 back. Some say the hike…read moreis hard but I would say it's moderate until you hit the last 0.5 mile to the top. It's steep and you may have to climb just a little bit. Going down, just be careful and take your time. No shade, and can't imagine during the summer. Bring lots of water. Not crowded at all, and lots of parking as well, just no restroom. Great scenery with the top of the view, where you can see almost everything.

This review is for trail number 404, which brings you to the peak of black mountain…read more To get to the trailhead just use the Shadow Canyon trailhead in your GPS. The trailhead is in the middle of a neighborhood. There's only about six parking spots, but people were parking on the street. It's almost a half mile on pavement until you actually start the trail. Just keep following the signs for markers 404. Once you get to 1.25 miles the trail will split. Keep going straight. Do not turn right onto marker 402. From here you will start noticing a big difference in the elevation. There are a lot of switchbacks. Be careful with your footing because there is a lot of loose rocks. It's a total of 3.6 miles to the very top. The last 3/4 of a mile gets pretty intense because you're going to have to actually climb up large rocks. You will lose sight of the flag pole that is at the top, but don't give up because when you least expect it you're at the top. The peak has 360° views of the Las Vegas strip, Henderson, Anthem, and you can even see the California/Nevada state line. There is a rock fort that you can sit in. There's an old military ammo box that other hikers left snacks in as well as a journal for you to submit an entry about your hike. It took me about 2 hours to ascend and 1.5 hours to descend. Difficulty was moderate to high.

Really nice park with plenty of seating throughout. They have a nice size playground area with…read moreswings and a functioning splash pad that we had fun running through on this very hot day. There were tons of families out. and was just a wonderful day for a Park visit. They have a gated dog park area, water fountains, and we really enjoyed hitting some baseballs around on the baseball field.

Does nature speak to you? Are you an individual that needs…read moreto stop and smell the roses and air to be the best human possible! Go outside and be inspired. As you walk through the gardens so much moves me . The world seems to stop and be in this moment, just for me. This park hosts many different activities for children especially, including a park and baseball field. There is a park for the pups. For our veterans they offer a small rock garden to keep veterans in our memories . The rock garden art is beautiful. So many individuals have come together to share their ideas of love and kindness. The respect from this community exhibited exists because we all care . Come and show your support and appreciation for your freedom and all that we have, but take for granted . If you want to remember someone that you once loved or cared for you can always sponsor them on a bench or tree for all to see and share. Once I sat on a bench and was to remember a cyclist that will now forever be remembered. Love in the end will never

Gorgeous trail that is in some parts split with decorative bows and plants and sometimes a concrete…read morelane. It passes by several parks.

Great trail. Lots of trees and shrubbery. Highly recommend to enjoy the beautiful scenery! Check…read moreit out.

Get out to explore more …read more... This walking trail tours both sides of Henderson and Boulder City. It's a great hike that has been sculpted for the individual to walk through a path and even venture out into a little off roading too. Are you looking to bike and explore? The biking experience here is great? Lots of great terrain! Be careful and take it easy. The cliff faces will just keep going with you sliding down if you're not careful. When walking make sure and be prepared. Come and enjoy the views of nature. At this point observe the seasons . For some moments even in summer it's cold enough to need a light jacket. Bring water, this is the outdoors . Take the path and walk a little. Clear your mind and seek the light that comes with going out side. Shall we begin.

I've not hiked nor ridden the full 34 miles of the River Mountains Loop Trail and probably never…read morewill. I simply don't have that kind of stamina. But I have walked a couple of different portions of it covering several miles. Most recently I walked from around mile 11 to roughly mile 13. This section has some steep grades that I struggled to get back up. What can I say? I'm out of shape. A few weeks earlier I walked a bit of the section from Rail Road pass towards Henderson. This was more flat and a fairly easy walk. Not the most scenic. The nearby rail line is cool. The path close to and behind a hotel tower is not so great. And the parking lot was full of people living in vans. All that was misisng was the river. That wasn't so nice. Next I would like to walk a portion through or near Boulder City. The area around Bootleg Canyon should be nice. I look forward to checking it out in the weeks to come.