A beautiful mountain escape located just about an hour from Las Vegas. Come up here for some nature, hiking, a picnic, hangout at Lee Canyon, and escape the Vegas heat! It's a great spot and whatever adventure (or chill time you choose) you will enjoy. read more

Mt. Charleston - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

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A split second decision this morning after breakfast... instead of same old go to Michael's and Trader Joe's before lunch... Let's go take R Bebe for an adventure!!! Doc who is our driver agreed so we were on our way. Grandpup was elated to leave the hotel for some frolicking fun. The sky, clouds and wide open spaciousness was breathtaking. The sun peeking through the trees at that altitude gave a cool pastelly almost aurora borealis mini effect. We saw cars parked along the roadside. One family even brought lawn chairs to enjoy the chill in the air and kiddies catching thrills on the ice like tobogoning. They had parkas, beanies and snow shoes on. I stood fast by the car door as the hardened ice was slick and in no desire to take an injury. I took photos while Doc and hubs let T Bebe experience getting her paws in snow for the first time. We stopped by the Mt. Charleston Resort sign with lodge below. There's a restroom and limited parking there while Doc and I admired 3 tables of Navajo crafts ladies selling jewelry, jade sculptures, unique hanging decor. I ended up spending more than I expected. Got an arrowhead arrow in Iolani colors for Bud and a full beaded bangle I've never seen before for sweetie. Got a copper bracelet with a unique twist and a turquoise stone mounted on it plus two dangles I couldn't resist. All 3 women explained what kind of gemstones were on each item plus their meaning that I purchased from them. Fun morning to do and go somewhere different than usual in Vegas. Thanks Doc for driving and continuously filling up gas for our MLK weekend road trip. read more

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First snow experience for Peanut was a success and in Vegas no less. Plenty of area for everyone to enjoy even for our sensitive little pup. We had a nice stroll and playtime. There's parking just have to roam around and figure it out. How can anyone complain it was such a short drive to snow? read more

Mt. Charleston - Happy pup - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

#2240 It's cooler here than in the city of Las Vegas. Don't be fooled. Do not forget the sunblock. Since it is a 45 minute drive, you can apply some sunblock on the way, assuming that you are not driving. I applied some sunblock on my son and then I applied some sunblock. I asked hubby if he wanted some, but he passed. (He got some sun.) I asked my MIL, if she wanted some sunblock, but she passed. (She got burned; she has super fair skin.) The last time we went here for a picnic, I didn't wear any sunblock and I got a burn; once you make that mistake, you don't make it again! I usually get a tan over a tan, over a tan, over a tan, meaning, I get dark. We went here last saturday, to the Cathedral Rock part of Mt. Charleston. I added some pics recently to Cathedral Rock. The cost of parking per car is $18.00. Exact change. Or it 'll be a $2.00 "donation." Pictured is the toilet bowl, however, the angle of the picture wasn't optimal. The last time we were here, during Winter, was two years ago, when there was Snow. But it hasn't been great snow-wise lately. The trees and scenery is very pretty and great for selfies too. Hiking is good if you can walk. But be careful, one missed step can end in injury. Please don't litter. It's a shame that people are visiting Parks around the US, and trashing the place. It's not right. The Lodge burned down, but they are in the Process of rebuilding. There are cabins that can be rented out though. If one wanted to have stay-cation here, that would be nice. read more

Mt. Charleston - The toilet bowl - 7/26/25 - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

Yes there is a 11,900ft mountain just outside of Vegas! And it's wonderful up there. I have been up there twice. First time was driving over wheeler pass. High clearance vehicle mandatory. If you have a jeep, Tacoma or something in between it's a great trail with amazing views. The second time I came in from the north up Lyle Canyon Road and did a stunning 7 mile hike around the base of the mountain. If you're in Vegas for an event and want a nature getaway, or your passing through, I can't recommend a trip up here enough!! read more

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Short 30 minute or so drive from Vegas that really does feel like you're thousands of miles away from the city. The elevation is 7,000+ feet vs about 2,000 in town so the temperatures are at least 15-20 degrees cooler than in town and they even have snow on the ground late into spring at the higher elevations so dress accordingly. In fact, as I learned they have alpine forest here that's totally different than the usual desert climate in the area. The hiking here is worth checking out and they have trails ranging from easy to hard core advanced. The visitor's center can help you decide which trail is right for you if you aren't sure. This is a must see if you're looking to do some hiking in the area but remember to dress for the cooler temps. read more

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Amazing place to escape from the summer heat! Amazing place to go for winter fun, snow days! Amazing place to enjoy the beautiful wilderness! I personally love all seasons and can't decide whether summer, winter, spring or autumn is better or worse! Truly happy to visit Mt Charleston anytime! Yesterday (5/30/2024) wasn't different either! I kept saying "Darling, stop the car!" Not because I was looking for a home, but because I spotted a beautiful wildflower. It's amazing how many different flowers are blooming in this place! Especially on the 6000' elevation. Nevertheless, I love taking pictures of flowers, plants, animals, mountain views ... Truly enjoy hiking! I found some of the trails little more challenging than just walking on the treadmill in the gym. So much more enjoyable being in nature! You can grab a bite at the Retreat at Mt Charleston, or pack a lunch and come to the picnic area ... or reserve a spot in the campground ... Make sure you clean up afterwards! Keep our treasure clean and safe for everyone! read more

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The view is amazing, because it was still summer, the weather was cool, cause of its elevation. The drive was nice. read more

Mt. Charleston - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

Mt. Charleston is so much fun! My daughter wanted to go up to Mt. Charleston on a Sunday morning. We had made sure to pack some snacks, water, extra clothes before going up to Mt. Charleston. The weather report stated that we didn't need snow tires or snow chains on our way up to Mt. Charleston. We noticed there was heavy fog and as soon as we reached the main visitor center, next to the Mt. Charleston retreat, we decided to stop there to play with the snow. It was raining, sleet, and extremely windy. It was about 30 degrees cooler up at Mt. Charleston than in Las Vegas. The kids had a lot of fun making snow sculptures and playing with the snow. Next time, we'll try to go on a day where there is clear skies so we can go further up the Mt. Charleston path, towards Lee Canyon! It's about a 30 minute drive from Las Vegas. If you enjoy the outdoors, especially hiking, Mt. Charleston is a must visit place! read more

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"Of all the paths that you take in life, make sure some of them are dirt!" John Muir The great outdoors! Is there any other feeling than getting away from the day to day business of life. Happy is here among the dirt and trees. Come and gather your thoughts. Leave the deadlines behind and recharge. No tracking devices! Just you and those that are special to you. As you walk, ride, or bike enjoy that natural beauty around you. As of this last summer of 2022, Las Vegas is always short on rain; but we got a few rain drops that are going to make fall bloom here. The green is all around and flowers are already in bloom. We have wet and dry spells here in the desert area but we can enjoy the bloom after those summer rainy days now as nature comes to life. Mount Charleston is in the Las Vegas/Henderson shadow. It seems so far away. Each morning the sun rises over the mountain lighting up the valley, a short drive and you are here in real time. Come up for a short day trip or stay over night at one of the lodges that are available up here. The area of Mount Charleston seems alien compared to the Las Vegas area. Who knew that so many pine trees are available here? Many of these pine trees have been standing for over thousands of years despite the neon that comes from the valley below. The landscape is unique as compared to the trails that have cut out here in valleys we hike. The mountain at one point is steep and can require some skills to climb. The top of the peak is around 11,000 feet. Make your way all the way up if you dare. Make sure and come prepared. Leave nature as you find her. Use caution when climbing and come prepared with water and food. The weather in this area can change and get to extremes in winter and summer. Check the weather often before you head out and explore. It's a great place for all those that seek serenity with nature. Bring the four legged ones too. The dogs loved the winter wonderland here. Make sure and bring the sweaters for the pups, they need to stay warm too. Let's go out and explore all your roads lead to fun here. Nature is calling will you come and explore. The mountain is great all times of the year. If your looking for adventure take the horse back tour and then eat to your hearts content at the lodge after a long day of riding. We brought the pups and just enjoyed being in nature. Happy is here among the huge pines that have stood for so long. Let's go! read more

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Short 30 minute drive from Vegas. I've been wanting to drive to Mt. Charleston for a while now and we finally made the short journey. The drive was very scenic. We saw some cute little critters along the drive. The visitor's center offers covered tables you can picnic at while you relax and enjoy the view of the mountains. As you continue up the mountain, there are quite a few opportunities to pull over to snap some great pictures. There is also a hiking trail to Mary Jane Falls, we plan on checking that out on our next visit to Mt. Charleston. If you are looking for a change of scenery and want to escape the city for a little bit, I highly recommend you make the short drive to check Mt. Charleston out. read more

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Always love coming up here. A lot busier when there's events going on, but usually pretty chill and quiet. Beautiful during the winter in the snowy months. read more

Mt. Charleston - Wild Horses by the Lodge Cabins at night - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

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MT Charleston is so beautiful. We head up here several times a year but today we brought Diesel here for his birthday to play in the snow and have some fun. With just a short 45 minute ride from Las Vegas, you start feeling like your in a different state when your halfway there. The mountains are amazing, as well as all the beautiful trees and the beautiful homes built up on the mountains. The snow had been melting because it has been getting warmer but there was still enough for us to take long walks and for Diesel to roll in the snow and gave lots of fun for his 5th birthday. It's amazing that we have theses beautiful parks to visit here in Vegas. Everyone should take advantage of it and visit ! read more

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Had a great time hiking today. The goal was to make it to the peak at 8.3 miles but that was tough. Since we got a late start we decided to hike 3 miles up. It took roughly 2 hours to make it up and a little less than 2 hours back down. There was a good amount of people hiking but everyone was courteous to move to the side and wait when the trail got a little narrow. There is plenty of parking at different areas. The bathrooms were not desirable. Don't forget to bring your own hand soap! Love the fact we can escape the city for a little piece of nature not to mention it's typically at least 20 degrees cooler in Mt Charleston than in Vegas. Looking forward to making it to the peak next time. read more

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Sometimes it's hard for me to believe that Las Vegas has something so amazing and beautiful! Mount Charleston has a great selection of trails to hike and not have to work too...hard, I recommend Mary Jane Falls Trail :) Also Cathedral trail is nice just not as difficult... The drive up once you are on that long road leading to the mountains is about 20-30 minutes from the 95N... I was surprised but there is a little ice cream truck next to the lodge! It was actually really good. Mary Jane is such a pleasant walk and the people walking by were super friendly.... During the summer the waterfall isn't much to look at but definitely worth the hike to see! Mary Jane has some toilets in the beginning so make sure to go prior. read more

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Gotta love the views, trails and spots to chill around here! Looks even better when there's snow! Good spot for hiking, snowboarding, sledding or just hanging out. There are plenty of picnic tables with grills but it gets packed later in the day. They clear the roads so it's easy to get up to Mount Charleston and it's only under an hour away from Vegas! Definitely gotta check it out if you love nature or anything outdoorsy! read more

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Beautiful place in any season. Really only local people know about this so it's not usually too busy, except of course when it snows and all the Vegas locals rush there. It is not very accessible anywhere as it is nature all around and dirt trails to hike. read more

Mt. Charleston - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

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After hiking up at Mount Charleston, we decided to drop into the lodge for lunch. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted and made to feel very welcome and appreciated. We opted to sit at the bar for lunch. My husband ordered the BLT with Turkey and I had the spinach salad. Our server suggested that I add strawberries to my salad- it was delicious!! And we got a side of their cole slaw- wow! It's a must try if you are a cole slaw fan! Also worth noting - they are adding live music on Friday and Saturday nights from 6-9 plus Sunday afternoons from 1-4- we will definitely make it back up to enjoy that. Happy to support this local business! read more

Mt. Charleston - Spinach salad with Strawberries added- YUM! - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

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Amazing views. I try to visit a few times a year. This place is like a winter wonderland when it snows but is also great when it's not snowing. They have plenty of trails to go on it's really nice to get away and come here. It's a very beautiful place. read more

Mt. Charleston - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

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Mt Charleston is the getaway spot for most in Las Vegas during the hot summer months! With an average of 20 degrees cooler on the mountain compared to the Las Vegas Valley, you can see why people escape to come up here! From majestic rock walls of the mountain tops, to miles of hiking trails for those of all experience levels, this park has it all! The ski lift is open during the summer months for you to get some awe inspiring views that normally are reserved for skiers. They have disc golf that can be very difficult, archery, corn hole, and horseshoe pits just to name a few! More than anything it makes you seem as though you are in another state when struggling to make it through a hot summer in the desert! read more

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We have fallen in love with the mountains in Nevada. This place has picnic areas, camping, private residences, and tons of hiking options throughout. Be on the look out for wildlife and be camera ready with the scenic views. We attempted to do the Cathedral trail and didn't finish but it was worth the hike we did do for the views and the breeze. There is a restaurant located close to the trail we were going on and had breakfast there. read more

At the peak, Mt. Charleston is an impressive 11,918 feet, but if you have been walking around Las Vegas in 100 degree heat and then take a 45 minute drive northwest to Mt. Charleston to find it is 70 degrees on the mountain, that is a real joy.Aside from being a mountain, Mount Charleston is also an unincorporated village with a population of about 400. The town has an elevation of 7,500 feet and is nestled in the Spring Mountain range. Consider the fact that Las Vegas has an elevation of 2,000 feet, you can then understand the usual temperature difference of 20-30 degrees. The mountain drive is steep but there are plenty of turn-offs to park your car and hike or take photos. The center piece of the village is a rustic lodge called, wait for it, "Mount Charleston Lodge". Consider the fact that you just heard the noises of the casinos for three days, now the peace and serenity of the mountain becomes heaven. When I was there people were hiking, skiing and snowboarding, and enjoying the Mt. Charleston Lodge which prides itself for making special cocktails.There are hiking trails you might want to explore most of which are short and moderately challenging. People living in Las Vegas and the surrounding area go to the mountains on weekends particularly in the summer. There are hotels to rent and recreational opportunities including horseback riding. read more

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Impromptu picnic evening with the husband and the pooch. Very nice to grab some fried chicken and sides with a few drinks and head up the mountain out of the heat. We grabbed a table and enjoyed the smell of pines and cooler temps. Walked the dog in the moonlight then headed back down. Close and easy get away. read more

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Mood - detox from life/ enjoy the outdoors Mt.Charleston and all its wonder is honestly a short drive from Vegas, under 45 minutes. There isn't a fee to drive in the mountain or up to the top where the lodge is. However there may be fees for the different visitor center areas or other areas accessed by the mountain. I honestly don't know. There are rooms for rent, cabins for rent, restaurants, hiking trails, waterfalls, ski areas... right now they offer the ski lifts to enjoy the scenery without the snow. The Wildlife is abundant as each time your there you may see something different. This time I saw wild mustang's and deer in the road. It is truly something magical to see the animals in their natural elements. Would thoroughly recommend - get outside and enjoy life Location Mt Charleston/ 95 - oh yea, the last petrol station is Ann / Durango- so make sure you have enough, as the drive to the top is 19 miles read more

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If you love nature , hiking and just want to unwind . Mr Charleston is a good place to visit - family get away.. away from crowded city.. nice parking lot with clean bathrooms, it has big , nice picnic table, grill stand and water. It's 45 minutes away from Las Vegas downtown. read more

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The cabins here are worth every penny! Service is impeccable, cabin was clean, cozy, and full of warmth. I would recommend these cabins to anyone and everyone who enjoys nature, and loves animals. I brought my cat and she was in heaven! Thank you. read more

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This ski hotel is in poor condition. Along with poor hospitality, cleanliness is an issue n the lodge. Disinfecting is non- existent as required during this pandemic. This includes couches, chairs, benches, and the stone around the fireplace. I did not see even one disinfectant used during my 2 day stay. Also noted food on the couches and trash under them. Social distancing was not enforced. They also allowed people to order and eat on these couches. The room we had was in disrepair, and was not really clean. Pictures will not load. Box springs on one of the beds was ripped open and completely open. One of the sprinkler heads has part of it hanging, and the desk had severe chunks out of the corner and scrapes. They also refused my service dog into the restaurant stating it is the Nevada law. And they made me pay a pet fee. read more

I am glad I came back to this place. Last time I came here, I stayed at the Mount Charleston Resort and ate at the restaurant. I had bad service then. I ordered spaghetti and meatballs but didnt get it until almost 2hours later because they ran out of meatballs. This time, I ordered bbq chicken with glass of water, grilled veggies and cornbread. The service and food, they knock it out of the ballpark. Last time I came here, we were in a middle of a world wide recession. This time we in a similar situation but I think the major difference from before and now is that most of the trails then were closed which I didnt get a chance to see. Now there are still visitor centers that are closed but you can enjoy picnicking biking, camping and even hike on trails. read more

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I Love these mountains, the views are AMAZING and the ohana had fun. We werent able to get to the ski lodge due to prior snow storm just days before we arrived to Vegas. But the kids still had some fun in the snow:))zz read more

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Summer chair lift experience.......THE BEST FUN. The attendants who serviced the chair left were so great, polite, did a hard stop for us to get on and off, and were very pleasant to talk to. Once at the top of the mountain there are beautiful views of the area so be sure to take your camera along. It was the best $10 spent. Im not a skier so I would never had seen the views had it not been the sky lift. There was also corn hole, ax throwing, skate board area and a nature trail up near the sky lift, oh yeah and a restaurant, coffee shop and gift shop. read more

Mt. Charleston - Beauty at its best!! - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

Great scenic drive. We went in November and I was wearing capris and flip flops and hubby was wearing shorts and tennies (we just got off the plane) and we were not expecting snow lol. We got some very strange looks. If you take all the roads that veer off and stop to enjoy some scenery and a couple of smal hikes, it should easily take around 3 hours. Well worth it in the cooler month. I'm going back in May so I'll update post with the warmer weather. I assume some hikes will be more accessible. read more

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My ex and I brought our 3 1/2 year-old daughter to the Mount Charleston ski resort to ride the ski lift up. On our way back down, there was a pretty strong wind that blew my daughters hat off of her head, my ex tried to speak to a couple of people about retrieving the hat, and they were very rude to him. Also, as we were trying to get off the seat at the end of the lift ride, one of the guys who was manning it stated that we needed to get off and go because he didn't want to stop the lift. I have a disability and I could not just get off the lift and go like he wanted me to. Not only that, but he was very rude about it and, this isn't the first time that we have had this problem. The last time, the same guy did and said the same thing and I had my mother with me, she also has a physical disability just like I do and she struggles getting up from a sitting position. read more

One of Las Vegas' saving graces. Not sure what I'd do without it in the twelve years I've lived here. With trails for miles, a snow resort, camp grounds and more, it's one of the best bets for getting some fresh air, ditching civilization and venturing out to perhaps scope out some deer, rabbits or wild mustangs. Being from California, Bay Area I failed to fully embrace what nature had to offer, however with spare vegetation I found myself looking for greener pastures upon moving to Sin City. While all this COVid got us trapped in our homes, I was grateful to have gone on a brief hike at Walla Walla Wash with my martial arts group where we also trained. Like many trails and campsites, restroom facilities are always sketchy so ladies be prepared and everyone hold your breath or go au natural and simply head to the bushes. For visitors, if given the choice I'd often opt for Mount Charleston over Red Rock as its typically around 10 degrees cooler than the city, whereas Red Rock is going to be only slightly cooler -- if that. In anycase, please help keep our parks clean and pick up after yourselves! read more

So, long story short, I live up there for the weekend during the summer. It is by far my favorite place in Las Vegas, for numerous reasons. Let me shower you with why Mt. Charleston is a gem for anybody that loves the outdoors: 1. Even from Henderson, it's only about an hour away. Red Rock is closer, yes, but Red Rock is also a lot busier and you have to pay to go there. 2. It amazes me how different it is from the rest of Las Vegas. It's a good "vacation" from the city life and as you get into the mountains, it's like going into Narnia. Suddenly, there are trees, wildlife, nature, fresher air, less internet, and if you go there during the fall/winter, color changing leaves and snow! But to be truthful, I haven't been up to the Ski Lodge during winter, but heard it's fun. 3. There are so many trails. Even where there AREN'T trails, there are still things to do. Some of them, to my knowledge, are still effected by the fire awhile back, but most of them are good now. Feel like doing something family oriented? It has a few campsites. I've stayed at Hilltop in June and enjoyed it. Will be going back to that campsite again if I need to get an early start hiking or something. 4. The altitude! So, this can be seen as a blessing or curse, depending on who you are. The base altitude of Charleston isn't terrible, but some of the mountains get into the 10k+ range, with Mt. Charleston itself just under 12k. If you plan on doing any of the big boys, be sure to have plenty of time, water, food, and spite for your legs, lol. 5. You don't need a permit to backpack. This is one of my favorite features to be honest. I've backpacked here a few times, both on Bonanza trail, and the fact that you can just set up a campsite anywhere, as long as you follow the general rules is great. Good way to get used to high altitude camping, if you need to for whatever reason. Cons: Honestly, I can't think of any. It's amazing. Sure, you'll run into some people that don't appreciate nature like they should, and I've picked up my fair share of garbage on the more popular trails...and even a long balloon on Bonanza (which made me wonder how long it's been there, since hardly anybody uses that trail.) But, after you get past that, it's a must do for anybody that loves nature and is in Vegas. :) read more

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I come to this beautiful place a lot to hike. Just 35 miles northwest of Las Vegas, you can find all the cool mountain breezes, pure clean air and all-around scenic beauty of Mount Charleston. Great place for outdoor activities such as horseback riding, camping and hiking. This ia part of the Spring Mountain Range and Toiyabe National Forest. Each season offers a unique experience. From a cool escape in the summer to a snowy wonderland in the winter. It's 20 to 30 degrees cooler here and the hiking trails are not as crowded like other areas here in Vegas. I have done most of the hikes here. If you're a beginner hiker, Fletcher Canyon would be your choice. Mary Jane Falls trail has a seasonal waterfall and Cathedral Rock has impressive, and magnificent views. My fave is visiting the Raintree, a well-known hiking destination in the area, is a 2000-year-old bristlecone pine tree and is believed to be the oldest living thing in southern Nevada. There are more than 200 campsites, 160 picnic areas and RV spaces. There is also a hotel and restaurant. read more

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Beautiful hiking, rock climbing area at 7500ft and higher. Easy parking to most major trailheads.

About an hour north of Las Vegas one can enjoy snow play at 7K altitude. It's really not that far of a drive and quite easy to get there. Unfortunately the trailhead was snowed in and closed but that didn't stop people from parking and playing on the side of the road. Not the safest because of the passing cars, but still fun to enjoy. There are other areas around the mountain to enjoy a snow day, or go up to the top and ski, either way LV is lucky to have access to winter fun. read more

Mt. Charleston - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

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This is one of my favorite hiking spots during summer months as the temperatures are cooler at the higher elevations. There are many different hiking trails for all levels to enjoy (including some kid friendly ones as well). I suggest getting to the trails early as parking can be a hassle later in the day. Be prepared for some amazing views! read more

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Mt. Charleston is a beautiful area just outside of Las Vegas where you can unwind and just be one with Mother Nature. It is beautiful all year round and has many hiking trails. They have lodges and camp grounds. A beautiful scenic drive. And an awesome place to just get away. I love coming up here in the winter time where there's actually snow! There's an amphitheater where my sorority sister just recently got married at and it was a beautiful ceremony. Love Mt. Charleston and all it has to offer! read more

Stunning ride, lots of curves, ability to pass if you are fast and you have balls. Great trip for all levels of motorcyclists. I saw countless horses and burros on the ride which I wasnt expecting that high up. Will be taking this trip monthly in the summer/fall/spring read more

Mt. Charleston - Hiking Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada