The northern edge of Lake Mead’s 110-mile length is less than six miles outside the Valley of Fire’s western boundary. One of the most popular arches, Elephant Rock, looks like a massive animal extending a long trunk.
The statue-like vertical rock formations called hoodoos grab attention with colored stone and contrasting textures formed by erosion. A variety of strange boulder-shaped arches look more like sculptures than ancient terrain. Visitors can find evidence of prehistoric times as examples of 3000-year-old petroglyphs are carved into the rock walls. The park offers picnic tables, maps, and hiking trails. When the sun shines directly on the red rock strips contrasting with the dark stones of the rocky bluffs, the layers appear to be on fire. It covers almost 40,000 acres of sandstone cliffs and petrified dunes surrounded by swirls of pinkish sand. Less than an hour northeast of Las Vegas on Interstate 15, a Scenic Byway exit weaves through Nevada’s oldest state park, Valley of Fire State Park. But, visitors won’t see most of the animals and reptiles in the desert setting. Desert bighorn sheep or burros are active during the day. Although the canyon is filled with wildlife ranging from coyotes and bobcats to kangaroo rats and jackrabbits, most are nocturnal. Horseback riding and mountain biking are also popular. In addition to hiking, rock climbing is allowed.
Red Rock Canyon’s impressive visitor’s center also offers educational displays, wildlife exhibits, and a gift shop. Several organized trails are marked with maps provided at the visitor’s center. It features rocky bluffs lined with layers of red rocks, grey stones, and light sand. A one-way 13-mile scenic drive winds through the park with pull-off points for hiking and taking in the sweeping views. Nevada’s first national conservation area, Red Rock Canyon, is located on State Route 159 about 17 miles west of the city. To the west and north of Las Vegas in the Mojave Desert, red sandstone from the Mesozoic Era shifted into layers leaving formations of red rocks, shale, limestone, and conglomerates. With easy access to Interstate 15 and US Highway 95, you can discover dozens of interesting sites less than an hour or two from the city. But, when you need a break from the chaos of the city, escape by taking a day trip. Inexpensive hotels and meals make Las Vegas the perfect place to stay. It provides family fun with swimming pools and amusement parks. The city still hosts gambling and adult entertainment. Las Vegas offers more than bright lights, loud slot machines and all-you-can-eat buffets.
0 kommentar(er)
