Easy hike with beautiful views. Parking is on Sunset Dr in a small parking lot. It is safe and right next to the trailhead, From the trailhead it is an easy .4 mile uphill hike to get to the top of the Mesa. From there it is flat. There are benches with view points. It is dig friendly. read more

Whitney Mesa Recreation Area - Parks Near Me - Henderson, Nevada

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If you're looking for a good place for a scenic walk or to do some hiking or biking, I can thoroughly recommend the Whitney Mesa Recreation Area. Located in Henderson, this is really easy to get to, with parking right on Sunset road, just be sure to look out for the entrance carefully since it is easy to miss until you know where it is. I believe there are other entrances too. The initial part of the trail is a moderate uphill climb, but nothing too difficult, and after this the trail is basically flat, being a loop with various different offshoots and overlooks, most of which have benches where you can rest and enjoy the scenery. The views of the valley really are spectacular, making this one of my favorite places to get some good outdoor exercise. The main loop is approximately 3 miles in length. In the hot months, definitely be sure to bring plenty of water and use ample sun protection because these trails have zero cover or shade. read more

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Love this hike in Henderson. This hike is relatively flat. Paved and unpaved paths. You will approach some uphill walking. It's easy to follow. Beautiful views of the valley at the top of the mountain. It's about a 2.9 mile loop. Tons of benches to take a break or just enjoy the views along the trail. Great for biking, walking, or running. Tons of parking options with different trail entrances. It was the perfect day for a hike! Would highly recommend! read more

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One of my favorite parks in Henderson. Nestled between the mountains and communities is hidden park. In here you'll find a playground area with swings, basketball, court, hiking trails, in public bathrooms. Never mind the amazing views from the top of the park. You can catch many hiking trails off of this park from beginner to intermediate level hiking trails. read more

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Huge place. Pretty confusing once you get here if you use Google maps to get here. Be careful! Looks like labeled trails are not maintained. Lots of off road trails that look safe but aren't. Great place to stroll if looking for an outdoorsy feel without driving all the way to and within Red Rocks. Picnics with bbq grills, restrooms, large bonfire with stadium seating, etc. Worth visiting for locals... Unsure for tourist? Maybe? There's the grass park areas great for dogs. Dog poop bag stations around. Views of rock formations, flat land full of rocks to overhead top of hill view from a plateau. We dangerously climbed and figured a way up to the plateau area with a safe wide walkway with partial cement and cemented seating area near cliff areas. I'm sure there are names of trails we were on and safer ways of traveling around. We look forward to coming back to figuring it out. read more

Great area to take a walk/hike. It can get hot in the summer and there is not really any shade so be aware of that if you plan on going in the warmer weather. But this is a pretty good trail with a view of the city once you get up top. There is also a bench to sit on once you reach the top if you need a little time to rest. read more

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Hey Guys.... Trying to get into a Las Vegas hike scene when I get a chance. My work schedule, and my kids schedule is crazy and makes it hard. Which is why when I found this in the middle of Henderson I was stoked. Super convenient to get to. Middle of the LV VALLEY. This by far, isn't a strenuous hike. It's fairly easy but recommended during any season except late summer. Lol. Unless you go early morning. We went in June around 10am and finished around 11. More because we were sight seeing as we did the hike. We went up on the entrance side from Sunset. We opted to follow the trail upward initially, which menS we didn't take that first right. Taking that first right will take you on the lower half of the trail first. And mid way through you'll get yo the elevation part of the hike which can be slightly tricky. Not hard, but me having knee issues makes it a slower walk up than the average person. So, I digress, wr started the hike with the initial incline and that was easy peasy. It's a great steep walk in the incline which I believe you can go up and down for a great work out. That's more my style when I'm on work out mode. I was on having a walk and sight seeing mode this particular day. After the initial elevation we were able to walk around the top of the mesa and get great views of the valley. Beautiful views from every direction. Great areas to sit and have a breather, and a nice quiet moment with far away traffic sounds. Before doing this hike I read that someone said the airplanes were too loud but, the airplanes weren't that loud from up too and we actually loved watching and counting the planes as they came through. The hike itself offers great views, privacy, and great trail for walking running. There are definitely enough signs to warn of coyotes and snakes. We didn't see any. And for that I prob won't ever go alone LOL. But I saw several people walking or running alone. There's also signs of possible falling rocks but really, you are far enough away from them to have warning. The upper part of trail is truly top tier to the lower half. The lower half, perhaps is a great walk behind the houses for the local community wanting a quick trail. I rated the hike 5/5 stars because of its convenience, views, and length. It was about a mile and a half. But you can stretch it li get with several turnouts. As far huge difficulty. It was easy, 5/5. I'll rate a 4/5 for possible animal sightings. Take water. Wear a hat, or shades. There's no shade on this trail. Maybe take snacks for a picnic. Enjoy the views. Try and do this hike 2-4 times a year just for a good little break from everyday hustle and bustle. Oh, and BEST PART, of the hike for me, seeing the history of how much water used to exist there and was probably dried out due to drought. Sadly lots of trees drying out and surviving off the little rain the city sees. This is not a shady hike at all. Just the start and finish. But at the very end when we got back where we started we stood a second to hear the water running through the creek. A very shaded area of trees, it was beautiful to finally see a stream of running water where are all of the greenery was when you start and end the hike from Sunset. It was beautiful and I'm sure that's where all the animals, if any, we're hiding out. It was shaded and cool and the peaceful sounds of the water was the serene. I was just happy to see some water there, those trees deserve that much. Im intrigued to look up and see what it looked like decades ago in that area. I can tell it was a hub for wild life. read more

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Cool place for a hike. You don't have to drive far out of the city for this one. It's right in the middle of civilization which is nice for reception and emergencies. There are beaten paths everywhere, pick one! There's also one that has stones on either side to keep you in the path. The rocks and gravel are loose so be careful of sliding. The view from the top of the Mesa is awesome! read more

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This situation we are in as a country has been interesting, but I must stay, one of the positives is that we have been going out and exploring Las Vegas in a new light. One of those ways has been with this trail. For my last job, I used to drive past this trail every day on the way to the office. Every day, I'd say to myself, "one of these days, I'm going to do that beautiful trail." This past weekend was finally the day. It was a beautiful day to finally get out of the house and enjoy some sunlight. Finding this area is pretty easy to get to. If you're coming from Stephanie, you just turn on to sunset and keep driving and eventually you'll see the small parking lot on your right hand side. On this particular day since one of the only things open right now in Las Vegas are parks and trails, that parking lot was pretty full, but that's not usually the case. I did happen to find one spot. This trail is pet friendly and you have to keep your doggy on the leash at all times, which I loved. My dog gets a little worked up when she sees other dogs, especially dogs off a leash. So I liked that they had that. They also have doggy bags for you to pick up your dog's poop, as well as trash cans to drop those bags in. Definitely appreciated that. When this hike first starts off, it goes uphill a bit. But the rest of the trail is pretty easy. We ended up walking almost 3 miles, but there's a variety of ways you can go. This trail takes you up to a cliff (pretty safe though, as there are signs everywhere telling you to not go too close to the edge), with the most spectacular views of the valley (not the Strip though). We were so taken aback at just how beautiful the views truly were. I can imagine that this hike would be great to do at sunrise or sunset, which my husband and I really do want to try one of these days. Along the trial, they also have signs everywhere with interesting facts about the wildlife. There are also some park benches where you can sit at the top to take in the views. Truly a beautiful hike. We saw people of all ages enjoying it. For people like us who aren't total "hikers," this one was relatively easy but still felt like we got a good workout in. We will definitely be back. read more

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I love this recreation area! I'd come here a lot before the pandemic but during the lock-down (and while I was still out of a job), I'd come here for some much NEEDED outdoor time. To be honest, the reason I came here a lot at first was for Pokémon Go. I know, I know! But... it's a fun way to get your steps in and this park has a lot of in-game areas to play and catch 'em all. The hike here is pretty good too. If you get to know the lay of the land a bit and learn the entrances up the mesa, you can park in the right spot for your level of comfort in hiking. For example, if you park by the pool in the large parking area, you will have to take a short but very steep hill up to the mesa. If you park up the hill, past the middle school, you'll have incline but it's not as steep. If you park on Sunset, coming down from Ethel M's, you'll have a long leisurely switchback to get up. I believe you can also park up by the mesa but I've never done that as I like the challenge. The views here are spectacular and well worth the climb. And the shiny Pokémon that seem to be here a lot (we nicknamed the place Shiny Alley) are a nice bonus. read more

Lots of trash and poop everywhere. Not sure if it's all dog poop or coyote too. But it was everywhere the first .25 mi starting from the trailhead off Sunset. Other than that, very dog friendly. Mostly flat, some paved. Nice views at the top of the mesa. It was a 15 min walk to get up there. read more

Whitney Mesa Recreation Area - Parks Near Me - Henderson, Nevada

This is a very nice walk on a trail path which goes up to the mesa top and around the perimeter and then back down a few different ways. Great view of the southeast valley. Nice lookout points with seating. A beautiful walk! Trail has an incline to get to the top, but it's not too steep or very long. read more

Whitney Mesa Recreation Area - View from first lookout area. - Parks Near Me - Henderson, Nevada

Beautiful park and trails. Will definitely visit here again. The place is very relaxing.

We loved this hike! It was very easy and short that it's perfect for those who just need to get out of the house and get some fresh air. There's a trail to go to the top and also one where you can ride your bike. I love how there's a little park/grass area where you can cool down and sit for a while. This was doggy approved! read more

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Very beautiful trail in the middle of Vegas! Easy hike for those not wanting anything too strenuous. Especially pretty at dusk and dawn. read more

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The Mesa Preserve and the Mesa Recreation Park are totally different animals, but right next to each other. The rec park has a water park, tennis court, green park area and a marvelous hiking trail. There is a restroom. This trail is rated difficult for about a short, but dusty rocky steep walk. Once to the top, you're rewarded with a huge plateau of level trails and view lookouts. Bring water. No trees or shelter on this level top walking area. read more

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This park is very clean and surprisingly not busy. There's a bike/walking trail. Not sure how far it goes. But there's a map that is displayed that shows details. There's a kids play area , basketball court , and a large grassy area. Well maintained. Definitely will visit here regularly read more

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Great hiking trails and scenic views of the East side of the city. The trail has been positively improved upon over the past few years. The trek is mixed terrain (desert dirt, paved, and pebble rocks) along with a few inclines, overlooks with benches, and non-marked off trails. Perfect for pets on leashes, and family-friendly "hikeability"- yeah I made it up, but it's good for most people to hike. The distance rountrip is about 2-3miles. Enjoy! read more

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very nice walking trail right off of sunset rd. we always saw the trailhead as we drove past, but never stopped. we finally decided to this evening. quite a few people walking but not crowded by any means (we went around 7:30 pm). benches throughout in case you'd like to stop/rest. also trash bins and bags for dog waste if needed. id consider this to be easy/moderate. some parts of trail are concrete but the majority is gravel. a few steep hills in the very beginning. the trail loops but we only went half way and turned around. very nice view of Henderson as this is higher up in elevation. at dusk it was so beautiful seeing all of the lights! i saw that dogs are allowed but have to be on a leash (due to cliffs presumably). read more

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Beautiful views. Perfect place to "get away" from the city for a moment. I enjoy walking here to clear my mind and find my zen

I've been here many times and what a great park! Easy walking trails, playground, basket ball court, picnic areas & more. There's hiking trails that take you up on the Mesa over looking the City. The view from the top is beautiful! I love that there's benches on the Mesa to sit, relax, unwind & enjoy the view all around. If you're in the area must stop and check it out. read more

It's aight. Convenience 5, scenery and views 4.5, shade 0. To me it felt like a Hollywood starlet past her prime. What must've been, what coulda been, what it is. The potential here is immense but the actuality it's okay in a pinch. If you're staying in the vicinity and need a good workout with some epic views I recommend. read more

My name is Daniel. S. Today the "S" stands for sharing. I want to share with you the newest park to open in the City of Henderson. It is Whitney Mesa Recreation Area. The Whitney Mesa Recreation Area does not give the most remarkable first impression. It is located off a high traffic segment of Sunset Road in the Henderson commercial corridor.The parking lot blends in with a 7-Eleven and Fresh & Easy. The Whitney Mesa Recreation Area exceeded my first impression. Part of the reason that Whitney Mesa Recreation Area gets a poor first impression is that the parking lot is very cramped. The spaces are few and the parking stalls small. A few feet from leaving the parking lot, the excitement builds. There is a warning sign letting the hiker be aware that this is a snake habitat. That is kind of interesting since 7-Eleven and Jack In The Box is nearby. A little further, the trail crosses a stream adorned with palm trees. To the left is a bluff with an apartment complex and wetlands to the right. As the trail progresses further into the preserve, to the right is a large lot that will be a housing development. Some hikers would say that this will spoil the hike. The reality is that Whitney Mesa Recreation Area is an island of nature in Henderson. In a few feet the development is seen from a birds eye perspective as the trail gains elevation up a mesa. After the elevation climb, the trail develops into a mile long overlook featuring the City of Henderson spread like a carpet below toward Black Mountain and the River Mountains, and North Las Vegas spread like a carpet to French Mountain. There are three major overlooks. The south overlook affords outstanding views of Black Mountain, Sunset Station, Green Valley, and Railroad Pass. The central overlook affords outstanding views of the Galleria Mall, the vicinity of the future water park, Desert Wetlands Park, and the River Mountains. The north view, which is just south of Patrick Street affords outstanding views of Frenchman Mountain. I have shared these pictures on Yelp. The benches make a nice spot to take in the views and relax. I sat on the benches listening to "Joy to the World" as the scenery brought joy to my soul. Despite all the outstanding views of Henderson, the Las Vegas Strip and the City of Las Vegas are nonexistent here. The only reminder of the Strip is the Stratosphere towering over Green Valley Medical. I was slightly disappointed that the trail was truncated south of Russel Road. If it reached the genuine north end of the mesa at Russel Road, I am nearly confident that there would be views of Las Vegas. In addition to the overlooks, the Whitney Mesa Recreation Area is an island of nature up on a Henderson mesa. The path passes along molten rock and creosote. On this island of nature, the primary path is level dirt where the side overlook trails are slightly rocky. It is an easy hike. It is also a popular hike that I shared with many people. From the second overlook are trails reraching to the ground level trails near the Whitney Ranch Recreation Center building, The trails are rated difficult. At the bottom is the newest part of the recreation area. Before I conclude this review, I want to share with you that Whitney Mesa Recreation Area is one of a few new parks in the City of Henderson. By the end of the Spring, the City plans to complete Cornerstone Park which will include Railroad Lake. There will also be an extension of the Union Pacific Trail from Acacia Demonstration Gardens to Cornerstone Park, and a new trail along Lake Mead Parkway. It was nice to leave Whitney Mesa Recreation Area knowing that this is just one of a few new parks that the City of Henderson is building. The Yelp 100 Challenge. Review 44 of 100. read more

Roughly 2.5 mile total loop. A little uphill at first, but the views at the top are worth the hike. This location is beautiful. My reason for giving a 4 star review is because not everyone keeps a leash on their dogs. An incident occurred where a dog owner had no control over his very large dog. The dog came at us and my super brave man kept me behind him and as a result of the dog owner not being in control of his unleashed dog, my beloved suffered an injury. The parking area off of Sunset Road is very small; less than ten spots, usually taken in the afternoon hours. There is additional parking by the Whitney Rec Center off of Whitney Ranch Dr, there your hike to the top will be extra dusty, but worth it either way. It's a great place to get a run in because the scenery is so nice, you can easily get lost in the peaceful surroundings. Enjoy. read more

Perfect activity if you're visiting post-COVID Vegas and looking for something "safe" to do. Best of all, it's free! We drove about 20 mins from a restaurant in Vegas. Parking our rental was simple, easy, and free. Definitely worth the hike all the way up! The view is beautiful! But make sure you're wearing proper footwear. The path is loose gravel. Stop and take breaks as you hike up and enjoy the scenery. read more

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Perfect easy getaway trail walk in Henderson. Dog friendly, easy access, easy parking. Great views of the city, (not the Strip) and surrounding mountain ranges. An easy way to get out and about, get some fresh air, have a walk & talk, get some sunshine. Easy to navigate as it's a simple out and back trail. Different options for offshoots that can take you further. A good place to take family for an easy-to-get-to outing. Trail has maps, interesting facts, is clean and well maintained, great views of the city and mountains. Some parts are paved, but most of it is gravel and there are some rock areas. Not sure if a stroller would work on rock areas. There are doggie bag dispensers and also trash receptacles at a few stops. Saw a few lizards today. Right on the flight line of incoming jets, so that's also neat to see the planes coming in, spaced apart perfectly. This is a trail you could feel comfortable going on by yourself. No creepy vibes. Great for families! Kids or adults could potentially fall off a cliff if they run off so prolly don't let them run off. Worth doing! read more

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I always drive past this parking lot on Sunset and have never been curious enough to actually stop until yesterday. I finally decided to check out this hidden trailhead! Whitney Mesa is an overall nice hike for people of all ages to do. It's not a long trailhead, only 2.5 miles round trip and according to the marker in the parking lot, it's ranked easy. There are lots of informational posts throughout the hike, from beginning to end. There are also benches and trash cans located along the trail, and as previous Yelpers have said, there is no shade... Which may or may not be a problem for you! While at the top of the Mesa, you get a nice view of Henderson and the east side of the valley as well. As you make your way down, be careful as there are many small rocks that can cause you to easily lose your footing and slip. I had to give this trailhead four stars because there was just so much dang dog poop everywhere! I will never understand why people do not pick up after their pets. It's not hard to do and it clearly states on the signs that owners must clean up after their pets! Bags are even provided! C'mon people! Be courteous for other people who use the trail too! Also, there were small pieces of broken glass throughout the trail, so be extra cautious with your little ones! Happy hiking! read more

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We have been here many times, and there are still nooks and crannies we have yet to investigate. There's a lovely little creek area just inside the trailhead. There's a nice climb, not too steep, but it does get you winded if you're an old lady like me, that rewards you with an amazing view of the valley. There's a trail that winds around the backside of the new housing development with lots of overhangs and shady places. It's a treasure right smack in the middle of the city. read more

Whitney Mesa Recreation Area - A nice, easy walk in the middle of the city - Parks Near Me - Henderson, Nevada

I live right across the street from the mesa, which is awesome! Its like having it in my own back yard. I go for sunrise a lot. It features nearly panoramic mountain views, as well as a view of a lot of the valley, which is cool when the lights are on and all twinkling. It is an easy hike...a tiny tiny bit steep and it is gravel , but not scary at all. No extreme drop offs or narrow walkways. Well worth it especially if you are in the neighborhood. Its free. It only takes a few min to get up to the top. If u walk the entire thing its over two miles i think? They have mile markers. Also there r benches at neat overlooks. No shade though!!! Avoid on super hot days. Also its much windier up there than ground level. So if its a windy day, be prepared for very very strong winds up there. Highly reccommend at least once. read more

Whitney Mesa Recreation Area - Sunrise at the mesa - Parks Near Me - Henderson, Nevada

Nice hiking/biking trail in the heart of Henderson. Well maintained and clean. Pet friendly. Nice view of Henderson, benches at viewing spots. read more

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Oh what a view, will be the words you utter once you reach the top of the mesa. Looking at Whitney Mesa quickly, there is nothing special or flashy about it. I used to unknowingly pass it all the time while driving up Sunset. A little parking lot is where you start your venture. The rocky path gradually ascends and snakes it's way up the mesa.There used to be a wash and little pond , but unfortunately housing developments swallowed up that little piece of nature. It's not a very strenuous trek up before you know it , the path plateaus and your'e at the top of the mesa. The first thing you see when you reach the top is a little park bench and cemented rest/lookout area. From there you can see a beautiful panorama of the city of Henderson. The mesa stretches out for quite a long way, you can continue along it and enjoy more beautiful views from the top. read more

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What a beautiful trail. I highly recommend to anyone to come here. Great for hiking, exercising and even bring your dogs with you too. read more

It was fun with family and friend they have trails a grass are and it's just so much fun

We parked by the tennis courts and walked right up. The uphill climb is a bit steep but nothing to fret over. I wore regular nike running shoes and watched my steps to keep balance and it was fine uphill and down. Nice little lonely boy spot and there's a few benches atop the mesa. The views are great especially for sunrise/sunsets. read more

There's slight elevation gain but nothing too bad even if you're not in the best shape.. To me, the new housing developments kind of throw off the nature feel to the walk/jog... a few years ago it was all desert outside of the trail and now it seems as if everything bloomed overnight. On the trail, there were a few empty bottles and a dozen clumps or dog droppings which kind of irked me. Decent walk/running trail, views could be a tad better.. this morning I explored and it looks like there are more (tougher) routes to get to some of the canyons which would probably make it more exciting. I started my walk at 5am before the sun came up and it was pretty nice watching the sun rise, trail is 1.25 miles long and depending on how early you start, you will see some lovely wildlife. read more

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Was trying to find a local hike for the kids and stumbled to here. There's a small parking lot when you reach here. There are also plenty of snake warning signs. Lots of bushes and you will hear loud sounds of either beetles or snakes. Thus, a slight warning if you're walking with animals or kids. Relatively flat course and a few pieces of trash here and there along the course. read more

Whitney Mesa is a great place to do some urban hiking. While the trail is unpaved and feels fully in the desert, you never feel like you have left the city. Mostly because you can see the city around and below you for most of the hike. And this really is hiking. There is some noticeable elevation change to start your hike to the top of the mesa. It is not overly steep but its a good incline with a lot of loose gravel. This is relatively short lived and gives way to mostly level terrain. Once on top of the mesa, you get some good views of Henderson and the east side of the valley. There are a few more ups and downs along the way but nothing drastic. The biggest issue on the trail right now is some serious errosion and uneven ground due to the recent thunderstorms we've had. Use caution so you don't twist an ankle. Make your way down the 1.25 mile trail and come back to the parking lot for a solid 2.5 mile hike. The area is clean, the trail is well defined, and most of the other hikers seem friendly. This is a great way to spend a Saturday morning. read more

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First time here, past by it so many times..never thought it was this beautiful an entertaining..enjoyed my hike much..

What a neat place! Beautiful right from the get go as you see all this greenery and water with the mesas in the background. It didn't even look like I was in Vegas in that area! I took the paved path between homes and mesas until I reached Patrick Lane and turned around. I messed up and didn't take the path I meant to but it was still awesome. Next time I gotta take the paths up on the mesas. read more

Found this gem conveniently located right off of Sunset in a residential neighborhood. The hike started off with some incline but levels out. 1.25 up makes for a nice 2.5 hike with gorgeous view of the valley. read more

Whitney Mesa Recreation Area - A view from the top. - Parks Near Me - Henderson, Nevada