Las Vegas is more than the neon-lit Strip—it’s a gateway to rugged landscapes where every step reveals a new side of Nevada’s outdoors. Las Vegas Epic Crawls offer locals and visitors alike an accessible way to engage with nature’s raw energy just beyond city limits. These guided or self-led hikes cover diverse terrain, from arid desert stretches to rocky canyons that challenge your legs and reward your senses.

One favored route, the Historic Railroad Trail, stretches about 7 miles round trip with a gentle elevation gain of roughly 600 feet. The path traces old railroad tunnels daring you through cool shadows, while the desert terrain beckons with red sandstone walls that rise fiercely against the sky. The ground here is mostly packed dirt with occasional loose gravel, making sturdy, grippy shoes essential. You’ll find expansive views of Lake Mead pushing the horizon wide, water sparkling and bold against the limestone cliffs.

On the opposite end of the difficulty scale, the Calico Tanks Trail packs a punch in a shorter, 2.5-mile loop with an elevation gain near 600 feet. It weaves through the vibrant Red Rock Canyon’s colorful cliffs, working through switchbacks that test your stamina. The trail climbs past creosote bushes and jagged outcrops where chipmunks dart, seemingly unfazed by hikers carving their way upward. That stretch’s payoff is the natural water collection basin—the tanks—that reflect the sky, a quiet pool daring you to pause and soak it in.

Practical preparation makes these epic crawls rewarding, not just exhausting. Hydration is paramount—the desert air steals moisture with each step. Plan to start early or later in the afternoon to avoid the sun’s peak fierceness. Breathable, moisture-wicking clothing paired with a wide-brimmed hat will guard against sunburn, while trekking poles add stability on rocky segments. Cell reception may vanish as you push deeper into the canyons, so inform someone of your plans.

Every crawl invites a dynamic dialogue with the environment—a desert wind that cools and pushes forward, a cactus that stands stubborn against the sun, a scurrying lizard that perceives you as just a passing disturbance. These aren’t just hikes; they are outdoor conversations with the land, where respect for its force and beauty sharpens your sense of adventure. Whether you’re setting out on your first trek or chasing new rugged lines, the Las Vegas Epic Crawls promise a grounded, real experience infused with natural challenge and a vivid reward.