When talking about Nevada, most tourists think of Las Vegas right away, but it’s more than this vibrant city. It has a thriving tourism industry, thanks to its entertainment and casino scene. In fact, Nevada has the most hotel rooms per capita in the United States. Tourists flock to the Silver State looking for the jackpot, though sometimes it is beyond the gambling spots but in the wilderness.Those who want a different kind of treasure in Nevada should opt for a backpacking journey, traversing its many trails. Getting lost and finding the center is always possible when hiking, more so when enveloped by the arid beauty of the state.
10 White Rock Hills Loop Trail
Those exploring Las Vegas but not its entertainment and casino spots should head to the arid but awesome Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It is home to over 100 trails, making it one big playground for backpackers. One route is the six-mile White Rock Hills Loop, a well-marked path that will take trekkers along superb canyon views and a forest of pinyon and juniper. The wooded climb is perfect while appreciating the east’s barren landscape. The nearly three-hour journey is filled with contrasting views making it a truly Nevada trip.
9 Charleston Peak South Trail
An almost 11-hour backpacking journey? That’s something to entice backpackers, and the town of Mount Charleston offers just that. The nearly 19-mile Charleston Peak South Trail (roundtrip) starts easy until it reaches the cliffs that will give the first challenges. Luckily, there’s a spring along the way where trekkers can rest. Also, the cliffs are perfect lookouts for appreciating the stunning views. Afterward, the incline will pose more challenges before travelers reach a plateau and then a meadow where backpackers can camp. The next day, they will conquer ridges until they reach the summit.
8 Fletcher Peak
Another trail in Mount Charleston is the one that leads to Fletcher Peak. The seven-mile path can be traversed in over four hours and offers backpackers their needed hiking challenge. It offers one of the best summit views in the area, especially during summer. Along the way, tourists will have a relaxing time appreciating the vistas of Mummy’s Toe and Cockscomb Ridge. The uphill climb is gradual, so travelers will enjoy the breeze of the pine forest and stream. The trip ends in the canyon, the best spot to take in the superb sights of this pocket of paradise.
7 Marlette Lake and Chimney Beach Loop Trail
Those who want to backpack with waterways as their destination should head to Incline Village and Crystal Bay. The area is home to the 8.5-mile Marlette Lake and Chimney Beach Loop Trail, a scenic destination for those who want to commune with Mother Nature. The steep journey takes almost five hours to finish, but it’s worthwhile as the route will take tourists to Marlette and Tahoe lakes. Along the way, they’ll enjoy the canopy of the forest. Add the charm of the pristine Chimney Beach, and travelers will have a splashing good time.
6 Tahoe Rim Trail
Tahoe Rim Trail is one of the best backpacking paths in Nevada, a 170-mile route that will take over 77 hours to finish. Thru-hiking along this Nevada destination is an ideal way to explore the Tahoe backcountry, where travelers will have something new to discover and experience per day. It passes through wilderness areas, like Desolation, where a permit is needed. The highest point of the trail is Relay Peak, where bliss is always within grasp. However, bliss is everywhere along TRT, considered “one of the best moderate long trails in the world.”
5 Mount Charleston North to South via Trail Canyon
Those who are not yet ready to conquer the challenge of TRT can first try traversing the 18-mile Mount Charleston North to South via Trail Canyon. It takes over 10 hours to finish, perfect for those who want to try camping while hiking. It’s recommended to visit from April to October, but whatever the month, those meandering this route will enjoy partially forested portions where they can rest. From the wooded paths to the open slopes, those exploring Trail Canyon will have fun getting lost – while finding their center.
4 Mt. Charleston North Access
Mount Charleston is the highest peak in southern Nevada, so it’s not surprising that it’s home to many trails. Backpackers will enjoy exploring the state’s many trekking spots, and if they are not yet ready to do the TRT, Mt. Charleston North Access has them covered. This over 16-mile path takes almost 10 hours to finish, perfect for those who want to pitch tents and stargaze. The North Access trail meanders along a pine forest before reaching a plateau. There are steep parts but overcoming them means enjoying views of Mummy Mountain, limestone cliffs, a dead forest, Cave Springs, the ridges, and ultimately, the summit.
3 Black Mountain Loop
The city of Henderson hosts the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, known for its many rock artworks. It has an eight-mile loop route that takes over four hours to complete, taking backpackers to Black Mountain. The initial part of the trail is steep and has lots of switchbacks. As trekkers slowly reach the top, they will feel that leg burn. Once they are in the rocky parts, they need to scale until they reach the summit, where breathtaking views await them. The leg burn is worth it.
2 Hobart Creek Reservoir Trail via Carson City
A hike near the state capital of Carson City? Nevada says yes, and it’s scenic. The almost nine-mile trail to Hobart Creek Reservoir starts from the desert and takes travelers along a dense forest. The route is well-maintained, so it’s recommended even for casual hikers, though it will take over five hours to traverse. While scaling the incline, backpackers will enjoy appreciating the views of Washoe Valley. Afterward, the pristine Hobart Creek awaits them – an oasis for a trip that started from an arid area.
1 Mount Wilson via First Creek Trail
Rainbow Mountain Wilderness near Blue Diamond is one big playground for lovers of the outdoors. One of its hiking destinations is Mount Wilson, which can be reached via the 10-mile First Creek Trail. The trip will take over six hours, taking trekkers along the sandstones of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Staying along the creek, hikers can check out Joshua trees and, if lucky, bighorn sheep. When trekkers see sandstone slabs, it’s a sign they’re nearing the summit. Atop, there are spectacular views of Nevada’s natural wonders.