15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Valley of Fire State Park

Have you ever stepped into a place so surreal it feels like another planet? That’s exactly how I felt exploring Valley of Fire State Park, a landscape of fiery red rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and winding slot canyons.

If you’re looking for the absolute best things to do in Valley of Fire, I’ve got you covered!

I spent a full day and a half camping and hiking through every nook and cranny of this small but mighty park, and let me just say—it did not disappoint. Since I was already in Las Vegas for work, I couldn’t resist sneaking away to this hidden gem for a little weekend adventure.

In this post, I’ll share 15 unforgettable experiences you won’t want to miss, plus insider tips to make the most of your trip!

Kate hikes along the White Domes Trail in Valley of Fire State Park, surrounded by towering red rock formations. She wears a orange coat, black leggings, and a matching beanie, looking up at the rugged sandstone cliffs glowing in the sunlight — White Domes Trail

Snapshot of My Top Five Favorite Sights in The Park

White Domes Trail & Slot Canyon
Seven Wonders Loop
Petroglyph Canyon
Rainbow Vista View Point
Mouse’s Tank Road Viewpoint

Top 15 Things to Do in The Valley of Fire

Whether you’re here for epic photography, unique rock formations, or a peaceful desert escape, there’s definitely something here for you. Here are 15 unmissable sights in Valley of Fire that will make your visit one for the books!

Kate walks through a narrow slot canyon in Valley of Fire State Park, surrounded by towering sandstone walls. She wears a pink hoodie and red beanie, exploring the winding desert trail under a bright blue sky. — White Domes Trail

Kate walks through a narrow slot canyon in Valley of Fire State Park, touching the textured sandstone walls. She wears a white tank top, rust-colored pants, and a baseball cap, taking in the dramatic rock formations around her. — Slot canyon on White Domes Trail

1. Hike White Domes Loop & Slot Canyon

If you only have time for one hike in Valley of Fire, make it this one—it’s one of the best hikes in the park and, hands down, my favorite!

The White Domes Loop may be short, but it packs in jaw-dropping rock formations, a stunning slot canyon, and a sand dune so soft it feels like walking on a beach.

I’m always a sucker for slot canyons, and this trail has a really unique one carved between towering red and pink sandstone walls. To experience it at its best, start this hike first thing in the morning to catch the best lighting and avoid the crowds.

You’ll find the trailhead at the very end of White Domes Road. I recommend hitting this trail first, then working your way back through the park!

Distance: 1.1 miles round trip Difficulty: Easy-Moderate Elevation Gain: 177 feet

An old stone wall ruin stands in the sun, with jagged red rock formations towering in the background. The crumbling structure, made of stacked stones and wooden beams, contrasts with the rugged desert landscape under a bright blue sky. — Ruins of an old movie set

📌 Fun Fact: White Domes was a filming location for a movie called The Professionals. You can still see part of the old movie set built in 1965 along the trail! Other popular movies filmed in the park include “Electric Horseman” and “Star Trek Generations.”

Kate walks along Mouse’s Tank Road in Valley of Fire State Park, surrounded by striking red rock formations. She wears a pink hoodie and a red beanie, as the long desert highway stretches into the distance under a clear blue sky. — Sunrise at Mouse’s Tank Photo Spot

Mouse’s Tank Road winds through the vibrant red rock formations of Valley of Fire State Park. The scenic highway curves dramatically against a backdrop of rugged cliffs, distant mountains, and a partly cloudy sky. — View from on top the rock croppings

2. Snap an Iconic Photo of Mouse’s Tank Road

If you’ve ever seen a photo of Valley of Fire, chances are it was the shot of Mouse’s Tank Road, winding through towering red rock canyons.

It was this exact image that put Valley of Fire on my bucket list, and waking up early to see it in person before the crowds was worth it!

The contrast of the dark asphalt against the fiery red sandstone makes for one of the most epic road trip shots you’ll ever take.

💡 Pro Tip: This view isn’t at the Mouse’s Tank trailhead parking lot! Instead, park at Rainbow Vista, cross the road, and climb up the rock formations for the best views looking back down the winding road.

3. Drive the Scenic Mouse’s Tank Road

Mouse’s Tank Road is, hands down, the most scenic drive in Valley of Fire, winding through dramatic red rock formations and showcasing some of the park’s best attractions.

This road starts at the Visitor Center and takes you past iconic stops like Rainbow Vista, Fire Wave, White Domes, and Mouse’s Tank itself.

Whether you’re just taking a scenic drive or stopping at every overlook and attraction, this stretch of road is a must for seeing the best of Valley of Fire’s stunning landscapes.

💡 Pro Tip: Tourists and bighorn sheep love this road just as much as drivers do! Often crossing between trails, the sheep tend to wander right onto the pavement, especially near Rainbow Vista. So take it slow, and keep your eyes up.

Kate stands on the swirling red and white sandstone of the Fire Wave in Valley of Fire State Park. She wears a pink hoodie, black leggings, and a baseball cap, admiring the unique layered rock formations under a clear blue sky. — Fire Wave

Kate sits on the wavy red and white sandstone of the Fire Wave in Valley of Fire State Park. Wearing a pink hoodie, black leggings, and a baseball cap, she gazes into the distance, enjoying the scenic desert landscape under a partly cloudy sky. — Play with the red and white swirls for photos

4. Hike to See the Fire Wave

The Fire Wave Trail leads to one of the most photogenic spots in Valley of Fire, where swirling candy cane stripes of red and white sandstone ripple across the desert landscape.

It’s often compared to the famous Wave in Utah, but this one is much smaller and easier to access—no permit required!

The trailhead is at Parking Lot P3 on the park brochure, and you’ll find the path on the right side of the lot, marked by reflector stakes and plenty of footprints in the sand. The 0.8-mile hike (one way) is relatively easy but fully exposed to the sun, so bring water and sun protection.

💡 Pro Tip: This is probably the most popular spot in the park, and getting a photo without people in it can be tricky. Arrive early! I visited in February, and by 10 AM, the parking lot was completely full. If you want the best lighting and fewer crowds, hit the trail right after sunrise!

The Fire Wave in Valley of Fire State Park showcases its striking red and white sandstone swirls. The smooth, curving rock formations stretch into the distance, creating a mesmerizing pattern against the rugged desert landscape. — Best photo advantage to capture the candy cane stripes.

📸 Photography Tip: Climb the small rock outcrop just west of the Fire Wave for an elevated view of the candy cane stripes and the entire desert landscape.

A brown trail sign in Valley of Fire State Park reads, 'END OF FIRE WAVE TRAIL, 7 WONDERS LOOP CONTINUES (Moderately Strenuous).' The sign is mounted on a stone cairn, set against a rugged desert landscape with red rock formations under a partly cloudy sky. — Continue on from Fire Wave to Seven Wonders Trail.

Kate hikes through a narrow sandstone canyon in Valley of Fire State Park, surrounded by vibrant red and yellow rock formations. She wears a pink hoodie, black leggings, and a backpack, walking along a sandy trail under a partly cloudy sky. — Pink Canyon

5. Complete the Seven Wonders Loop

If you’re already hiking to the Fire Wave, don’t stop there. Continue onto the Seven Wonders Loop for even more incredible landscapes.

This trail connects several of Valley of Fire’s most unique formations, including the White Domes Slot Canyon, Crazy Hill, Fire Cave, Striped Rock, and Pastel Canyon.

The mix of orange, red, yellow, and pastel pink rock formations makes this one of the most colorful and diverse hikes in the park. Just note that some of the formations take a bit of searching to find. They are not obviously marked or right on the trail.

This was easily one of my favorite trails, and I especially liked crazy hill. I highly recommend it if you want to see more really cool hidden gems beyond the Fire Wave!

Kate walks along a vibrant sandstone formation in Valley of Fire State Park, where shades of red, pink, and yellow swirl together. She wears a light pink tank top, black leggings, and a baseball cap, exploring the colorful desert landscape under a partly cloudy sky. — Crazy Hill along the Seven Wonders Trail

Distance: 1.9 miles Difficulty: Moderate Elevation Gain: 187 feet

💡 Pro Tip: Be sure to download the AllTrails map before you go—there’s no cell service in the park, and this trail isn’t well marked. You’ll end up wandering off the main path a bit, so having the map will make it way easier to find all the cool spots without getting turned lost!

Two desert bighorn sheep stand among the red rock formations in Valley of Fire State Park. One sheep gazes alertly from a higher ledge, while the other stands below, blending into the rugged desert landscape. — Big Horn Sheep along Rainbow Vista Trail

6. Spot Wildlife

One of the coolest surprises in Valley of Fire is how many bighorn sheep there are. Trust me, they’re everywhere if you keep an eye out!

I saw three huge, full-curl rams up at Fire Canyon, Silica Dome Viewpoint, and a lot of females along the Rainbow Vista Trail, but they also like to hang out near Balancing Rock by the Visitor Center.

They may look adorable, but remember, they’re wild animals, not pets—so admire from a distance and do not harass them or try to touch or feed them.

A metal staircase zigzags up a red rock formation in Valley of Fire State Park, leading to a viewpoint between two massive boulders. A sign at the base reads 'Don't climb on rocks,' reminding visitors to stay on the designated path. — Stair case leading up to the petroglyphs of Atlatl Rock.

Ancient petroglyphs are etched into a red rock wall in Valley of Fire State Park, depicting symbols and figures from early Indigenous cultures. A metal viewing platform with a sign reading 'DO NOT MARK ON ROCKS' protects the historic carvings. — Ancient petroglyphs

7. Climb Atlatl Rock to see Petroglyphs

Atlatl Rock is a quick but worthwhile stop to see some of the best-preserved petroglyphs in the park.

It’s especially convenient if you’re camping in the park, since it’s just a short walk from both campgrounds. Perfect for an evening visit after a long day of exploring.

A metal staircase leads you up three flights to a rock wall covered in these ancient carvings, depicting animals, symbols, and early life in the region.

It’s a great spot to pause and appreciate the stories left behind by those who lived here thousands of years ago.

📌 Key Point: I saw names and initials carved over these ancient petroglyphs, and it’s heartbreaking. Once they’re damaged, they’re gone forever. Please respect history and leave them untouched!

Elephant Rock, a naturally formed sandstone arch resembling an elephant, stands among the rugged red rock formations in the Valley of Fire. The bright blue sky contrasts with the warm, earthy tones of the desert landscape. — Elephant Rock

8. See Elephant Rock

Located right at the East entrance of the park, Elephant Rock is a super easy, quick stop that’s worth checking out.

As the name suggests, this unique rock formation looks just like an elephant, complete with a trunk arching toward the ground.

It’s only about a 0.2-mile walk from the parking lot, making it one of the most accessible sights in Valley of Fire. No matter your skill level, you can easily walk up and snap a photo of this fun natural formation!

A trail sign in Valley of Fire State Park points toward Arrowhead Trail and Elephant Rock. The sign stands in a rugged desert landscape with red rock formations, sparse vegetation, and a partly cloudy sky in the background. — Elephant Rock Loop Trail

Kate hikes along a rugged desert trail in Valley of Fire State Park, surrounded by red rock formations and sparse vegetation. She wears a burnt orange shirt, black leggings, and a baseball cap, with a vast mountain range stretching into the distance under a cloudy sky. — Desert Views along Elephant Rock Loop

9. Hike Elephant Rock Loop

After snapping a photo of Elephant Rock, don’t just head back to the car—continue onto the full 1.3-mile loop for even more stunning views.

This easy trail follows part of the historic Arrowhead Trail and offers a peaceful walk through the desert landscape.

I hiked it around sunset and had the trail almost to myself, with the evening light and clouds making the scenery even more dramatic. I honestly didn’t expect much from this hike, but it ended up being a great surprise—don’t skip it!

Distance: 1.3 miles Difficulty: Easy Elevation Gain: 173 feet

💡 Pro Tip: I recommend hiking it counterclockwise so you have the valley views out in front of you the whole time, and it’ll pretty much be all downhill, making it more enjoyable.

Kate hikes along the Rainbow Vista Trail in Valley of Fire State Park, surrounded by red rock formations and desert vegetation. She wears a pink hoodie, black leggings, and a baseball cap, walking through the sandy terrain under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. — Rainbow Vista Trail

Kate stands at Fire Canyon Overlook in Valley of Fire State Park, gazing out at the rugged red rock formations. She wears a pink hoodie, black leggings, and a baseball cap, surrounded by a dramatic desert landscape under a cloudy sky. — Fire Canyon Overlook view point at the end of Rainbow Vista Trail.

10. Hike Rainbow Vista Trail for the Best View

This was another trail that quickly became one of my favorites in the Valley of Fire.

The steep canyon and rock formations along the way are incredible, and the mountain goats here weren’t shy at all. They practically posed for photos!

But the real highlight is the breathtaking view of Fire Canyon at the end, making this one of the best viewpoints in the park. If you’re looking for a short but rewarding hike, Rainbow Vista is a must!

Distance: 1 mile Difficulty: Easy Elevation Gain: 104 feet

📸 Photo Tip: For the best view and photo spot, climb up the rock formation on the left when you reach the end—it’s 100% worth the extra effort!

A historical sign in Valley of Fire State Park describes 'The Cabins,' stone shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935. The sign stands in front of three rustic sandstone cabins, nestled against towering red rock formations under a bright blue sky. — Historic Cabins in Valley of Fire

Kate approaches a historic stone cabin in Valley of Fire State Park, built from red sandstone blocks. She wears a burnt orange shirt, black leggings, and a baseball cap, exploring the old structure against a backdrop of towering rock formations and a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. — The Cabins were worth the stop.

11. Visit The Cabins

I hadn’t originally planned to stop here, but on my way to my campsite, I decided to check out The Cabins—and I’m so glad I did!

These historic stone cabins were built in the 1930s to house early tourists visiting Valley of Fire, and it’s fun to imagine what it must have been like to stay in them back in the day.

The location they chose is absolutely stunning, set against a massive red rock wall that makes for an epic backdrop. If you’re driving by, it’s definitely worth a quick stop!

Arch Rock in Valley of Fire State Park, a naturally formed sandstone arch, stands against a clear blue sky. The delicate rock formation is surrounded by rugged red sandstone cliffs, shaped by centuries of wind and erosion. — Arch Rock

12. See Arch Rock

Arch Rock is a quick and easy stop near the Atlatl Rock Petroglyphs and the campgrounds, making it a convenient sight to check out—especially if you’re camping overnight.

I walked over from my campsite at Arch Rock Campground to see it, and while it’s not the most impressive arch I’ve ever seen, it’s one of the few remaining in the park that hasn’t collapsed.

Considering how fragile these formations are, it’s pretty remarkable that it’s still standing. So, while it may not be the star of the show, it deserves a little respect for beating the odds!

A silver SUV is parked at a designated picnic area in Valley of Fire State Park, surrounded by towering red rock formations. The site features a covered picnic table, a barbecue grill, and gravel parking spaces under an overcast sky. — My camp spot in Arch Rock Campground

13. Camp Under Red Rock Formations

There’s nothing better than waking up surrounded by towering red rock formations, with the quiet desert all to yourself.

The campgrounds in Valley of Fire are tucked right into the rocks, and some sites feel so secluded it’s like having your own private desert oasis.

I personally prefer Arch Rock Campground over the other, and if you want the best and most private spots, aim for the higher-numbered campsites.

💡 Pro Tip: Camping in the park gives you early access to the best sights before the gates open to day visitors. Since the park closes at sunset for non-campers, you’ll also get to enjoy the park without crowds in the morning and evening—a huge bonus!

Kate admires ancient petroglyphs etched into a red sandstone wall along Mouse’s Tank Trail in the Valley of Fire. Dressed in a yellow shawl and cap, she gazes at the dark rock carvings, which contrast against the sunlit desert backdrop. — Chance to admire petroglyphs up close

Kate walks along the sandy path of Mouse’s Tank Trail in the Valley of Fire, draped in a yellow shawl. Towering red sandstone cliffs with unique erosion patterns rise against a bright blue sky, framing the desert landscape. — Mouse’s Tank Trail

14. Decipher Petroglyphs along Mouse’s Tank Trail

Mouse’s Tank Trail takes you through Petroglyph Canyon, where you’ll find tons of ancient rock carvings scattered along the sandstone walls. Some are thousands of years old, and it’s pretty incredible to see how well they’ve been preserved.

The trail itself is flat, easy, and accessible for all skill levels, making it a great stop for anyone visiting the park.

But if you’re up for a little extra adventure, climb the rock wall at the end of the trail near Mouse’s Tank—there’s an amazing hidden canyon view up there, and since not many people know about it, you’ll likely have it all to yourself. I spent some time just sitting in the silence, taking it all in, and it was one of the most peaceful moments of my trip!

Distance: 0.7 mile Difficulty: Easy Elevation Gain: 49 feet

A large rock face along Mouse’s Tank Trail in the Valley of Fire is covered in ancient petroglyphs. The carvings, etched into the dark desert varnish, depict animals, human figures, and geometric patterns against the red sandstone landscape. — Ancient etch-a sketch

📌 Fun Fact: The black tar coloring on the rocks is called desert varnish, and it forms over thousands of years from a mix of clay, minerals, and bacteria reacting to the desert air. Ancient people used it like nature’s Etch A Sketch, scraping away the dark layer to create the incredible petroglyphs we see today!

Kate climbs onto a beehive-shaped red sandstone formation in Valley of Fire State Park. She wears a white tank top, shorts, and a baseball cap, exploring the unique rock structure under a bright blue sky. — One of the Beehives

Kate explores a unique red sandstone formation in Valley of Fire State Park, touching the curved rock arch. She wears a sun hat, sunglasses, a light tank top, and rust-colored pants, walking through the rugged desert landscape under a bright blue sky. — Lots of fun rock formations at the Beehives.

15. Climb the Beehives

Right off the road near the West entrance, the Beehives are a fun and easy stop that you can explore as little or as much as you want.

You can make it a quick visit or spend time climbing the hives for great views or going into the caves, squeezing through holes, and checking out the unique rock formations up close.

These sandstone mounds have a distinct layered look, making them super photogenic and great for capturing fun shots. I had a blast climbing around and snapping photos, so don’t be afraid to channel your inner kid and explore!

Kate stands inside a hollowed-out section of a beehive-shaped sandstone formation in Valley of Fire State Park. She wears a white tank top, rust-colored pants, and a baseball cap, exploring the unique rock layers under a clear blue sky.

How to Get to The Valley of Fire

The closest major airport to Valley of Fire is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, which is just an hour’s drive from the park.

From Vegas, it’s an easy 50-mile drive northeast via I-15 and Valley of Fire Highway—perfect for a quick day trip or weekend getaway.

Valley of Fire has two entrances: the West Entrance off Valley of Fire Highway, which most visitors use, and the East Entrance, which connects to Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

If you’re road-tripping through Southern Nevada or Utah, you can drive straight through the park and continue on to destinations like Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, or the Grand Canyon!

Kate hikes through a narrow canyon in Valley of Fire State Park, surrounded by towering red sandstone walls. She wears a pink hoodie, black leggings, and a backpack, walking along the sandy trail under a partly cloudy sky. — Hiking along the Seven Wonders Trail

Best Time to Visit The Park

The best time to visit Valley of Fire is spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when the weather is perfect for hiking and all trails are open.

Summers here are brutally hot, with temps soaring over 100°F, and because of that, many trails close from May to October for safety.

Spring is gorgeous, but keep in mind it comes with the risk of flash flooding, so always check the forecast before heading out.

If you want great weather and fewer crowds, late fall is another solid choice!

📌 Key Point: I went at the end of February, and honestly, it was perfect—cool enough for hiking, warm enough at night for camping, and best of all, I had a lot of the trails to myself.

How Many Days Do You Need in The Park

You can easily see all the best highlights in one full day, but if you want to maximize your experience, I highly recommend camping at least one night.

Waking up inside the park gives you a full 24 hours to explore, plus early access to the most popular spots before the crowds roll in.

If you’re not camping and plan on driving in and out, two days is ideal so you can take your time and not feel rushed.

Either way, Valley of Fire is totally doable as a quick day trip, but an overnight stay makes it even better!

A black sign with white lettering marks the entrance to Valley of Fire State Park, set against a backdrop of red desert terrain and a winding road. The sky is overcast, with mist partially covering the distant rock formations. — It was a bit moody when I first arrived at Valley of Fire, but it didn’t last long.

Where to Stay

Whether you’re up for camping under the red rocks or prefer a hotel with modern comforts, there are plenty of options for staying near Valley of Fire.

The park has two campgrounds that put you right in the middle of the scenery, plus a free camping area nearby for those who want a free spot to park overnight.

If camping isn’t your thing, the closest hotels are in Overton, Henderson, and the outskirts of Las Vegas, offering everything from budget-friendly stays to full-on resort experiences.

Valley of Fire Campgrounds

Valley of Fire has two campgrounds with 72 sites, and with the park’s rising popularity, it’s best to reserve a spot in advance on the Reserve Nevada website.

⛺ Arch Rock Campground: My top pick! The sites are tucked into the red rocks for a more secluded, scenic stay. For the most privacy, go for higher-numbered sites.

🚐 Atlatl Rock Campground: Best for RVs, with hookups and showers. The sites are spacious but not as nestled into the rocks as Arch Rock.

📌 Both campgrounds have picnic tables, water, fire pits, and a dump station, so you’ll have everything you need for a great stay.

Free Camping Near Valley of Fire

If you’re looking for free camping, there’s a great BLM dispersed camping area just 10 minutes outside the park near Overton, NV. It’s right off the main road, easy to access, and has level ground with scenic desert views. Plus, unlike inside the park, you’ll have cell service, which is a bonus!

📍 BLM Dispersed Camping near Overton, Nevada
Coordinates: 36.44394235 N, 114.67516382 W

Best Hotels Near Valley of Fire

If camping isn’t your thing, the closest hotel options are in Overton, Henderson, or the outskirts of Las Vegas, all within easy driving distance of the park.

Here are the three best choices that are close:

🏨 North Shore Inn at Lake Mead – Just 9 miles from Valley of Fire, this is the closest hotel to the park. It’s an affordable, no-fuss option with easy access—perfect if you want to get there early and beat the crowds.

🏨 The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa – Located 31 miles away in Henderson, NV, this hotel is ideal if you want to relax after a long day of hiking. It even has a spa to help you unwind! Bonus: It’s pet-friendly, which is great if you travel with your furry friend like I do.

🏨 La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Vegas Nellis – 33 miles from the park in Nellis, NV, this hotel is a solid choice if you want to avoid Las Vegas traffic. I’ve stayed at many La Quinta’s before, and they’re always reliable and comfortable. Plus, this one has a pool and is pet-friendly, making it a great spot to cool off after a hot day on the trails.

>> Book Your Hotel Near Valley of Fire ASAP! <<

Kate hikes through a narrow sandstone slot canyon in the Valley of Fire, surrounded by towering, textured rock walls. Wearing a pink hoodie and a red beanie, she walks along the sandy trail, immersed in the rugged desert landscape. — White Domes Trail

Other Things To Know Before You Go

Before you head to Valley of Fire, there are a few things you’ll want to know to make your trip easier. From entry fees and pet rules to trail closures and cell service, here’s the stuff I wish I knew before my first visit!

Entry:

Valley of Fire is only open from sunrise to sunset, and if you don’t have a camping reservation, you’ll need to leave before the gates close.

National Park Passes are not accepted, so be ready to pay the entrance fee of $10 per vehicle for Nevada residents and $15 for non-residents.

💡 Pro Tip: Stop by the Visitor Center to grab a map or snap a photo of the trail system because not all trails are listed in the park brochure they hand you at the entrance! Hidden gems like the Natural Arch Trail, Pinnacles Loop, and Prospect Trail aren’t marked on the standard map, so getting extra trail info here is worth it.

A detailed Valley of Fire State Park hiking map displays various trails, trail lengths, elevation changes, and difficulty levels. The map includes color-coded routes, trail descriptions, and key landmarks, with photos of scenic spots like White Domes Road, Rainbow Vista Trail, and Prospect — Valley of Fire hikes map

Pets

You can bring your fur kid along for the adventure since dogs are allowed in the park and on all trails, but they must be on a leash at all times.

Keep in mind that the sand and rocks get extremely hot, especially during the middle of the day. If you are bringing your dog, it is best to hike in the early morning or late evening to avoid burned paws.

Annual Trail Closures

Several Valley of Fire trails close between May and October because of the intense desert heat. With temperatures often exceeding 100°F, hiking during this time can be extremely dangerous. These closures are meant to keep visitors safe, so if you are visiting in the summer, be sure to check which trails are open ahead of time.

Cell Service

Cell service is almost nonexistent in Valley of Fire, except for some signal at the East and West entrances. I’ve heard Fire Canyon Overlook has spotty reception, but I couldn’t get any. Download maps in advance or grab one at the Visitor Center just in case.

Appropriate Footwear

I watched people try to hike even the easiest trails in flip-flops, and it did not go well. The fine sand on the rocks is super slippery, and I even saw someone snap a sandal strap and have to walk out barefoot. On top of that, the sand dunes get scorching hot, especially in the summer, and can burn your feet. Do yourself a favor and wear proper hiking shoes!

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That’s a Wrap

And there you have it—15 unforgettable things to do in Valley of Fire!

Whether you’re hiking slot canyons, chasing epic views, or just soaking in the otherworldly landscapes, this park is definitely worth the trip.

Before you go, book your campsite or hotel EARLY, download maps ahead of time, and pack the right gear (seriously, wear good shoes).

Catch ya later

15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Valley of Fire State Park

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