A relatively short and easy hike to a viewpoint, the Fire Canyon trail is just over two miles roundtrip and should take less than an hour. With summer’s heat bearing down on us it is crunch time for squeezing in those fantastic desert hikes. In the summer Valley of Fire State Park lives up to its name, concerning the temperature.
There are a couple routes to Valley of Fire; a longer scenic route passes by Lake Mead. Another way is taking Interstate 15 North to exit 75 and turn right off the ramp to follow Nevada Route 169 for about 14 miles to Valley of Fire State Park fee booth. The trailhead is at the Rainbow Vista parking lot, which is just past the famous Mouse’s Tank parking area.
Starting out, the trail consists of loose sand underfoot – just waiting to get into your socks – and navigates around desert scrubs. There is a loop off to the left that brings you to Rainbow Vista, a beautiful sandstone scene painted with bands of color. The Rainbow Vista path reconnects with the Fire Canyon trail. Continuing onward the surrounding sandstone begins to frame the trail. Soon the trail comes to an end with a sign stating so. The vantage point offers optimal seats and relaxation spots to take in the scenery of Fire Canyon. Head back up the trail the way you came; you can skip the Rainbow Vista loop by staying to the left of the fork in the path.
Valley of Fire is a fee area, for more information call (702) 397-2088 or go to their website.
