A six-hour guided trek from Las Vegas through Black Canyon to riverside hot springs—expect slot canyons, sandstone scrambling, ancient petroglyphs and a restorative soak on the Colorado River. Practical for day-trippers yet rugged enough to feel like true backcountry.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The trail begins with the bus dropping you off where asphalt ends and the desert begins to take back the horizon. Sunlight strips across sagebrush and creosote as guides point out the first notch in the Black Canyon rim. You push off down a dry wash, canyon walls closing in like pages of an old geology book. The river's voice is distant at first, then louder—an abrupt contrast to the tight, sandstone corridors where petroglyphs peek from shaded alcoves.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness; must be comfortable with short, exposed scrambles and sustained uphill return sections.
Wildlife
History
The Black Canyon corridor holds traces of Mojave and Southern Paiute use—petroglyph panels and travel routes along the river predate modern roads.
Conservation
This area is ecologically sensitive; pack out all trash, avoid disturbing cultural artifacts, and follow guide instructions to limit erosion and bank disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Hiking Adventure in White Rock Canyon and Desert Hot Springs today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear grippy, closed-toe shoes
The route includes sandy washes, loose talus and short rock scrambles—hiking shoes with solid tread are essential.
Swimsuit under clothing
There’s no changing facility at the springs; wearing a suit under light layers makes the river soak easy and quick.
Bring sun protection and a refillable bottle
Desert sun is intense; pack sunscreen, a hat and at least 1–2 liters—guides provide additional bottled water but you’ll want your own.
Pace the ascent back
The return climb is steep and loose—use trekking poles if you have them and save energy on the way down for the tougher climb up.
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Provides traction on sandy washes, talus and slick rock sections.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Wear your suit under clothing and bring a towel for the hot spring soak.
summer
Sun hat and sunscreen
Essential for daytime desert exposure—wide-brim hats and SPF 30+ recommended.
summer
Light daypack with water reservoir
Holds layers, water, snacks and any personal items while keeping hands free for scrambling.