Dog-Friendly Trails, Hikes Around Las Vegas | Local Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a premier outdoor destination in many ways, but recreational opportunities for your four-legged friends may be harder to find.

When you hike with man's best friend, the desert feels a lot less lonely. On most trails your dog must be kept on a leash.

Here are a few recommendations to escape the noise of the city and allow your dog to enjoy the view from a higher vantage point:

Lonely mountain

Located on the northwest tip of Las Vegas, Lone Mountain is a good option for moderate hikers who want panoramic views of the city, including the Strip.

It is a fairly steep climb with a maximum elevation of about 3,300 feet and a total trail length of just over a mile.

Exploration Peak

Another popular hike with a nice viewpoint of the city is Exploration Peak, which is more suitable for beginners who aren't sure how their dog will handle the climb. It is a less intense hike at about a mile and a half.

The top of the mountain offers breathtaking views of Las Vegas that you and your pup won't want to miss.

Whitney Mesa Nature Preserve

A safe bet in the Henderson area, Whitney Mesa Nature Preserve offers a 3-mile trail that's an undisturbed gem in the middle of suburbia.

It is a popular spot in the community for bird watching and horseback riding. There are several trails you can follow as you explore the 6-acre nature reserve.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area hiking trails

A classic in Las Vegas is of course the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

Pets are allowed on all of the region's hiking trails, which are numerous and vary in intensity. The trails are a great option for people – and dogs – of all skill levels. The area's Scenic Loop is always a good starting point for a number of smaller hikes.

Hiking Trails at Mount Charleston

A much-needed respite from the Las Vegas heat can be a trip to Mount Charleston, a higher elevation location with cooler temperatures. Your dog can also come along.

Although many popular hiking trails such as Mary Jane Falls remain closed due to flood damage from Tropical Storm Hilary, there are many options for long and short hikes.

Contact Alan Halaly at [email protected]. Follow @AlanHalaly on X.