Attraction
Fountains of Bellagio
Free choreographed water and light show on the 8.5-acre lake in front of Bellagio, with fountains set to music that run from the afternoon until midnight.
Valley of Fire State Park
Nevada's oldest state park, around 50 miles north-east of Las Vegas, known for red Aztec sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs and short desert hikes.
At a glance
- Type
- State park (red sandstone desert)
- Area
- Overton (50 miles north-east of Las Vegas), Las Vegas, United States
- Official site
- parks.nv.gov
Good to know
- Visitor centre
- Petroglyphs
- Hiking trails
- Picnic areas
- Camping
- Pets on leash
Why we recommend it
Valley of Fire is Nevada's oldest state park, opened in 1934 and officially designated in 1935, and it is one of the most rewarding day trips from Las Vegas. It lies about 50 miles north-east of the city and covers almost 46,000 acres. The name comes from the red Aztec sandstone, formed from shifting sand dunes around 150 million years ago, which appears to glow when the sun hits it.
The park has some of the most accessible rock art in the region. At Atlatl Rock and along the short trail to Mouse's Tank you can see petroglyphs left by people who lived in the area, including Ancestral Puebloans who farmed the nearby Moapa Valley. Beyond these, trails such as the White Domes Loop and the Fire Wave lead into colourful formations, and the landscape has stood in for other planets in films including Total Recall and Star Trek Generations. A new visitor centre opened in November 2025.
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and the visitor centre from 9am to 4pm. Note that the park closes every year from 1 to 14 December. A day-use fee is charged per vehicle, with a higher rate for vehicles from outside Nevada. Many of the most popular trails, including the White Domes Loop and the Fire Wave and Pink Canyon area, close from 15 May to 30 September because of extreme heat.
In the cooler months, the park suits hikers, photographers and families who want short walks among dramatic scenery. Even then, carry plenty of water and electrolytes, wear sun protection and do not underestimate the heat, as the park itself warns that hiking in high heat is dangerous even on short trails. Pets are welcome on a leash of no more than six feet but are not allowed in the visitor centre. Shaded picnic areas are available at Atlatl Rock and near Mouse's Tank.
You will need a car or an organised tour to get here. Allow a full day to explore at an easy pace, and set off early to enjoy the best light and cooler morning temperatures. Camping is available for visitors who want to stay overnight and see the rocks in the early and late light.
Valley of Fire State Park FAQs
How far is Valley of Fire from Las Vegas?
About 50 miles north-east of the city.
What are the opening hours?
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and the visitor centre from 9am to 4pm.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, a day-use fee is charged per vehicle, with a higher rate for non-Nevada vehicles.
Are trails open in summer?
Many popular trails, including White Domes and the Fire Wave area, close from 15 May to 30 September.
Does the park ever close?
Yes, it closes every year from 1 to 14 December.
Where can I see petroglyphs?
At Atlatl Rock and along the trail to Mouse's Tank.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, on a leash of no more than six feet, but not inside the visitor centre.
When is the best time to visit?
The cooler months, setting off early in the morning.