There are views... and then there are moments that feel like you've stepped into something larger…read morethan yourself. The Mike O'Callaghan Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge Bridgewalk is exactly that a grand stage suspended in the sky, where earth, water, and human ambition collide in spectacular fashion. If you've been behind the wheel for miles, stiff and road-worn, this is your invitation to rise, stretch, and stride into something unforgettable. The walk itself is a gift clean, open, and built for those who don't just want to see a place, but feel it under their boots. Step by step, the desert air sharpens, the horizon widens, and suddenly... there it is. Below you, the Hoover Dam not just seen, but revealed. From this vantage point, it transforms. No longer something you stand upon, but something you behold. A monument of willpower carved into canyon walls, holding back the restless Colorado River like a titan at rest. And then, the drop. Second highest bridge in the United States, they say and whether you came for facts or for feeling, the height delivers both. Standing nearly 900 feet above the canyon floor, this engineering marvel stretches 1,900 feet across Black Canyon, a sweeping concrete arc that feels almost too elegant for its own strength. Completed in 2010, it carries the weight of modern travel while quietly offering one of the most extravagant views in the American Southwest. Now let's talk scenery because this is where the experience transcends. To one side, the fading bathtub ring of Lake Mead tells a story of time, of thirst, of a changing world. To the other, the canyon walls rise in layers of sunburnt stone bronze, rust, and gold like pages in a history book written by wind and water. And above it all, the sky... endless, unapologetic, and vast beyond reason. It's the kind of place that makes you pause mid-step, lean into the railing, and just exist for a moment. A quiet line of poetry seems to write itself out there: Between sky and stone I stand, Where silence speaks and shadows span, A river held by human hand, Yet time still writes a greater plan. And here's the truth being up here might just outshine standing on the dam itself. Because from the bridge, you don't just witness a structure... you witness the story. The scale. The consequence. The beauty. This isn't just a walk. It's a front-row seat to grandeur.

My crew and I came out to this landmark bridge to do a shoot and do some research as a possible…read morelocation. It's actually quite spectacular in person. It has a great view of Hoover Dam and you can walk across it, but you then get halfway and then come back unless you plan to walk to Arizona on the other side of the bridge. There's a plaque at one end explaining background of the bridge, like date of construction and who it's named after. Parking is down in the main lot, so you need to walk a little ways to the bridge. I think they built this bridge so traffic and trucks that might hold a big bomb wouldn't drive across the top of the dam. That used to be the only way to get across to the other side. There's all the touristy stuff, like a little place to get food and gifts near the parking lot. You can go walk across the actual dam and I think there's tours of the inside where the power plant is if you want to do that. THis place including walking the bridge and walking around the dam is well worth it. It's not too long a drive from central Las Vegas.

Hoover Dam was a great experience! Although, we didn't take a tour for our first time, we…read morethoroughly enjoyed walking around the Dam, and of course the drive around it. Sights are beautiful! From parking to walking around, everything is kept up nicely and very clean. Parking is $10 at the visitor center, however, there are other sporadic small parking lots to see some more gorgeous sights, that are free of charge. I did think the parking at the visitor center was fun and different, inside a mountain. Also, the Hoover Dam gift shop has so many cool items/souvenirs, so make sure you stop by right next to the visitor center parking structure. The only comment/critique I would make is regarding the Hoover Dam cafe, adjoined with the gift shop. Although it is kept clean inside and the employees are very friendly, it is entirely too small, especially for the amount of visitors going in and out. There aren't many tables inside, and even though the outside eating area is nice, it is hot most of the year, so many are not able to eat outside. I would love to see the indoor cafe area expanded to provide a comfortable air conditioned spot to have something to eat, especially for families with small children and visitors that are up in age. We are looking forward to returning to Hoover Dam soon, and next time taking a tour! Also, if you are looking for a great spot to eat on the drive to or from Hoover Dam, for a little larger of a meal, Fox's BBQ in Boulder City has excellent food with friendly servers!

Went with a group of 4. Paid $90 including parking. Tour felt a bit rushed and I couldn't really…read morehear/understand everything that was said. It was cool to see, unsure I would do it again. Going in we had an issue. We were told the pepper spray my daughter keeps in her purse could not come in, ok, no problem, we would walk it back to the car. The security guards (wearing sunglasses inside?) said to leave through the glass doors with it (glass everywhere around that area), so when I started walking in not the direction of the "doors" he wanted me to, he raised his voice to an aggressive yelling tone and repeated and pointed to the glass doors. Unnecessary, for sure. There were no signs saying no pepper spray, and kindness goes a long way. He is dealing with tourists and really is in the service industry, he should probably act like it. None of the security guards had name tags that I could easily read, this would be nice. Deducted a star for rude employee experience.

Our SECOND visit…read more We plan to return again because one cannot get enough of this. Ever. Anyone who leaves the area without being stunned by it's beauty and grandeur, is soulless. There were hikers from all over the world here today.

Absolutely breathtaking and easily one of the most beautiful places near Las Vegas. The red rock…read moreformations look unreal in person, especially during sunrise or sunset when everything glows bright orange and red. Every stop along the scenic drive feels like a postcard. The hiking trails were well marked and offered amazing views, slot canyons, petroglyphs, and unique rock formations everywhere you look. Make sure to bring plenty of water because it gets hot fast, but it's 100% worth the trip. Whether you're into hiking, photography, or just sightseeing, Valley of Fire is a must-see if you're visiting Nevada.

As a park, this is a lovely park. It has a view of Lake Mead and is simply beautiful! The…read moreplayground has a lot of equipment that kept our tiny one busy and so happy! There are beautiful picnic facilities and a lot of seating throughout the park . There is also a tennis court and ample shade to help stay cool. The walking path provides informational displays that explain the best part of the park....the long-horned sheep. There is a large herd that spends part of their day right here in the park. Of course they are wild animals and should not be approached but you are able to sit so close to them and observe as they relax in the grass. They are not tame but it is so neat to be able to be so close to them without them being at all disturbed by our presence. If you are in the area, stop by and see if you are able to share part of your day with wildlife!

A surprise visit that was amazing and special. A beautiful park that offered a treat with wild…read morelife. An experience that I will never unsee such magic and beauty of the desert. As Hemingway would say - "Every day above earth is a good day."

Even though the water level seems to be getting lower and lower these days, the lake is still…read morebeautiful and this place is such a serene retreat! You can enjoy some time at a beach, kayak, rent a boat, hike, or do a scenic drive here. There's also the famous railroad tunnel hike (which is really like an easy walk), boasting incredible views that tends to be a family favorite. No matter what kind of adventure you choose here, the views will be beautiful.

There are places in this country that aren't just destinations they're chapters of a life. Lake…read moreMead is one of mine. I remember when it was full truly full back in its heyday, when it stood as the largest reservoir in the United States, born from the mighty Hoover Dam and fed by the Colorado River like a beating heart in the desert. It wasn't just water out there... it was life. The kind of place families planned entire summers around. The kind of place that meant something. Our family didn't just "go" to Lake Mead we made a journey out of it. A couple days on the road, anticipation building mile by mile, until finally, there it was. We'd spend a week out there, soaking it all in. And I'll never forget those spring breaks. The sun high, music playing somewhere in the distance, boats cutting across the water, laughter echoing off canyon walls. Girls in bikinis everywhere and I was just a young man coming into my own, thinking every single one of them was the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen. It felt like the whole world was alive, and somehow, I was right in the middle of it. Back then, the water... it had a color you almost couldn't describe without sounding like you were exaggerating. Turquoise one minute, blue-green the next, shifting with the sunlight like it had moods of its own. The desert wrapped around it, rugged and raw, but the lake softened everything. It brought people together. You couldn't find a place to park half the time, and nobody cared. That was part of it. People shoulder to shoulder, coolers open, music playing, drinks in hand, strangers becoming friends for a weekend. It felt affordable, accessible... like it belonged to all of us. It felt like America. And now... now it feels like something else entirely. These days, when I pass by Lake Mead, it doesn't greet me the same way. The shoreline has pulled back like a memory fading. What was once shimmering and alive now looks cracked, dry, almost forgotten in places brown where it used to glow. The "bathtub ring" carved into the canyon walls isn't just a mark of water levels it's a scar. A reminder of what used to be there. It's hard not to feel like something's been taken. Whether it's overuse, growth, decisions made in rooms far away, or just time itself catching up whatever the cause, it's left behind a shell of what once was. A place that used to be bursting with life now feels like somewhere people go to remember instead of live. You don't go there the same way anymore. You visit it like a piece of history. And that's what hurts the most. Because I think about bringing my kids there today... and it's not the same gift my grandpa gave me. Not even close. What was once a living, breathing escape now feels like something we're quietly burying. Not gone but not what it was. And maybe never will be again. Still, I can close my eyes and see it. The color of that water. The sound of laughter. The feeling of being young, sunburned, a little wild, thinking the world was wide open and I was somebody in it. Lake Mead gave me that. And for that, no matter what it looks like today... I'll always love it.

We came with a social group and conquered over 5 miles and an elevation change of over 900'. The…read moreparking and bathrooms were well maintained, and the signage made clear the natural challenges presented in this part of the country. We easily followed the beaten path to see the arch and the Colorado River in 3.5 hours. Pro tips: wear hiking boots, wear layers, bring water and a snack, and plan for sun and wind. We were fortunate so many things were in bloom today. We'll do this hike again!

Such a fun rewarding hike with gorgeous views of the Colorado river!…read more This hike is known for its interesting combination of features, including an old mine area, the iconic Liberty Bell Arch, and the river overlook. The hike was 4.55 miles round trip. Moderate, with a mix of inclines and flat sections. The trail can be sandy and rocky in places, so wear good hiking footwear. It took about 3 hours round trip because we spent about 30 minutes enjoying the view up top. Make sure to bring water and some snacks to enjoy before hiking back down. Take lots of pictures too. This hike was very peaceful and serene. You will love it. I can't wait to do this hike again with my girls!

Hey Yelpers! This is…read morea super easy mostly flat hiking trail with the most beautiful views. This is the best time of the year to hike it, too. You can easily drive into the parking lot like you are heading to the visitor center, but drive past it down to the restroom parking lot close to the trail and it's perfectly marked for easy no brainer adventure. About half way or an hour in there is another restroom with a covered picnic table for a break. Then you can continue on down to the Boulder Dam. There are amazing views there as well as awesome retro restrooms , memorials, and water. There used to be a cafe. I forgot to look if they are still open. Before the dam is a parking structure. You can take the stairs or an elevator. We usually start our hikes about 8 am. The restrooms were still clean and stocked. I bring hand sanitizer. Be sure to bring water and a snack just in case. Dogs are welcome but please pick up after them and keep them on a leash. The later it gets the more busy it gets. I like to go here at least once a year. It's just so nice to get out into nature and experience Nevada. Parking is free. You can check out the visitor center while you are there. They have cool stuff. I recommend this trail. Check it out!

Free Parking this is the beginning 1 mile until you hit the 1st rail tunnel. You are walking…read morebasically on the removed railroad tracks where the rail cars were used to remove and bring in materials to build Hoover Dam. Walk, Jog, or bike love this spot for the beauty and the history. $25 to enter lake Meade State Park if you choose to go in if you have a pass it's free. Hoover Dam Hotel Casino and Hoover Damn are also in the area to visit to see the sights along with the small town of Boulder City which offers restaurants bars and small shops & antiques.

A truly fantastic hike with changing scenic views along the way. The trail is also ever changing,…read morefrom sand, to packed dirt, to rocky/gravel, and steep stone steps. I personally recommend doing this trail counterclockwise. We're in our 30s, but my husband has bad knees and I get lower back pain; we find that the steep stone steps are far easier to go up than down. Having a walking stick while climbing the steps is also helpful. You will see some incredible things while hiking this trail. The texture on the rocks, the multitude of colors, windows, slot canyons, a portion of an old movie set, and some grand majestic views. Being an avid hiker and having hiked 80% of the trails within Valley of Fire, I'd consider this to be a moderate hiking trail. Note: There is a small covered picnic area with 4 tables as well as 4 gender neutral vault toilets near the start of this trail and next to the parking lot.

Amazing hike with beautiful scenery and moderate level…read more Starting out into the hike you have to walk through some sand which doesn't sound hard but it's actually strenuous on your body. Follow that down through some rocky man-made type rock stairs past an old movie set where you feel like you're in Star Wars Then follow that to the slot canyon. The slot Canyon is my favorite part of the hike. Very beautiful and unique. We just took our time going through the hike as we had some friends with us who were inexperienced hikers and we wanted to make sure everyone got through safely. I could've gone onto a few more hikes that day, but they were pretty tired. I will definitely go back here again. This was my second or third time here.

My husband and I did the full-day Black Canyon kayak tour with Desert Adventures and I seriously…read morecan't recommend it enough. I grew up in Vegas and have been on this river a ton by boat, and I've also hiked to both Gold Strike and Arizona Hot Springs. Those hikes are super rewarding but honestly brutal. This experience was completely different in the best way. Being able to get out of the river and be steps away from hot springs was amazing, and the views from the water are hands down the best. We met the team bright and early at 5:30am for launch, and everything was super smooth. They shuttled us, got us fitted for life jackets, handled waivers, and gave a quick safety rundown. Launch timing is strict because of the park service, but they made it feel easy and not stressful at all. Definitely be on time, though, because due to this strict timing, they will leave without you. The kayaks were such a game-changer. They were longer touring kayaks with foot-controlled rudders, dry storage, and actual back support. Super comfortable for me and somehow also worked great for my 6'2" husband (he had a larger boat). Since it was just the two of us, our guide Holmes customized the whole day to our pace. He took us to hidden spots I had never seen before, even as a local, and helped us avoid crowds. We did some hiking, rock scrambling, used ropes at Boy Scout Canyon, and explored hot springs that you can only get to from the river. It felt adventurous but still very safe, and he gave great tips the whole time. He also knew so much about the area. History of the Hoover Dam, plants, wildlife, etc. I learned a ton - even as someone who felt familiar with the area. This is exactly why I'm glad we didn't just rent kayaks. Having a guide made it feel like a next-level experience. We got to relax more while he handled the route and found the best spots. We got lucky with perfect early April weather. No wind, super glassy water, and we could see fish deep in the water. The 12 miles honestly felt way easier than expected, especially with how well Holmes guided us through the current so we could just float and chill a lot of the time. They also packed a great lunch, snacks, and plenty of water. You really just need a sun shirt, hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, water shoes, and sunscreen. They take care of the rest. Even though we leaned a little more adventurous, I could totally see this being doable for beginners, too. You don't need to be super athletic to enjoy it. Pickup and cleanup were easy and seamless. They handled everything while I grabbed a snack and relaxed, which honestly made it feel even more special. This was such a cool experience, and I would 100% do it again. Already recommending it to friends, and I would definitely consider doing the overnight version next time.

Desert Adventures is great! We did a self led excursion…read moredown the Colorado river but used this company to drop us off and pick us up! They provided a large trailer with ample shelves and space to put are gear onto. A safety speech was also given. This company has special authorization to enter the Hoover Dam property and take people down to launch from the entrance of the Hoover Dam. They instructed you to move quickly as there was a time limit for getting everyone/everything Into the water and away from the area. The next day, they were prompt with their pick up and helped us load our gear back onto the trailer. I would definitely use this company again and recommend them to others.