Deserts may seem dry and barren, but they are some of the world’s most extraordinary places. The Las Vegas area is surrounded by desert scenery and natural wonders waiting to be explored.
Is Nevada Really a Desert?
Nevada is the United States’ driest state, receiving only about 9.5 inches of rain each year. Its sweeping sandy deserts, grasslands, and mountain ranges surround Las Vegas, an entertainment oasis within the Mojave Desert.
5 Facts About the Nevada Desert
Make no mistake: Nevada’s desert is home to all sorts of fascinating surprises.
1. Nevada Is the Country’s Most Mountainous State
Nevada is divided into the Columbia Plateau, Sierra Nevada, and Basin and Range regions. More than 300 mountain ranges run north to south through the Great Basin, with peaks including Wheeler, Charleston, and Boundary Peak.
For a challenging hiking trip near Las Vegas, visitors often head to Mount Charleston and its North or South Loop trails.
2. It Has a Harsh Climate
Summer temperatures in Las Vegas can reach roughly 115°F, so preparation is essential. Still, the region supports outdoor activities throughout the year; the Mojave National Preserve offers accessible trails, while guided kayaking offers a cool-water change of pace.
3. It’s Home to Diverse Flora and Fauna
Nevada supports around 2,800 plant species and 4,000 animal species. At different elevations, visitors may see Joshua trees, sagebrush, yucca, creosote, mesquite, and cacti, along with rabbits, deer, bighorn sheep, migratory birds, tortoises, and lizards.
4. It Has Relaxing Hot Springs
More than 300 hot springs are spread through Nevada’s mountains and deserts. Gold Strike Hot Springs near the Colorado River and Hoover Dam is a favorite for hikers and kayakers willing to scramble, boulder hop, and soak in pools of varying temperatures.
5. It Has Impressive Manmade Wonders
Nevada blends natural scenery with iconic structures, from the Bellagio and the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas to Hoover Dam. The curved gravity dam was built in the 1930s to control flooding and improve irrigation, creating Lake Mead in the process.
Discover the Beauty of Nevada’s Deserts
Nevada’s modern energy and awe-inspiring natural features make it a rewarding place for families, friends, and solo travelers. Ready to experience the desert differently? Join an Evolution Expeditions guided kayaking tour.
