Discover Las Vegas: Top 10 Outdoor Adventure Experiences

By Jacquelyn Payne, Adventure Enthusiast

What brings you to Las Vegas? Is it a weekend escapade? A concert or sporting event? A dining experience like none other? We challenge you to think beyond the infamous Las Vegas strip and book yourself on an extreme, adrenaline-filled adventure today! From dramatic desert landscapes to thrilling recreational activities, there’s something for every kind of explorer.

10. Dig This! Las Vegas

Dig This Las Vegas is a one-of-a-kind, heavy equipment playground where you can unleash your inner construction worker. Located just minutes from the Strip, this thrilling attraction lets visitors operate real bulldozers, excavators, and other heavy machinery in a controlled environment. Whether you’re digging trenches, stacking giant tires, or navigating obstacle courses, it’s an unforgettable experience for adults and kids alike! With expert instructors guiding you every step of the way, this experience is a safe, fun, and unique way to play in the dirt - perfect for adventure seekers and anyone looking to try something totally out of the ordinary!

9. Evening Stargazing in the Desert

The desert’s wide-open skies make it the perfect spot for stargazing. Escape the city lights and head to locations like Red Rock Canyon, the Valley of Fire, or even further to Tonopah, Nevada, for an unforgettable view of the night sky. Bring a telescope or join a guided stargazing tour to learn about constellations, planets, and other celestial wonders. Need wheels? Book one of our Dark Skies stargazing packages in a luxurious Bronco!

8. Skydiving Over the Desert

If you’re ready to take adventure to the extreme, why not skydive over the stunning Nevada desert? Las Vegas is home to SkyDive Las Vegas and GoJump who both offer tandem jumps options. This is certainly a bucket-list experience that’s hard to beat!

7. Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

Combine history and outdoor fun with a visit to the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Take a VIP guided tour of the dam to learn about its fascinating construction and engineering, then head to Lake Mead for a variety of off-roading activities. Book your exclusive combo experience with Buck’n Bronco Off-Road Adventures today!

6. Helicopter Tours Over the Grand Canyon

Take your outdoor adventure to new heights with a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon. Departing from Las Vegas, these tours provide breathtaking aerial views of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Our exclusive Grand Canyon + Off-Roading package will have you soaring over the skies of the Grand Canyon in the morning and off-roading at Lake Mead National Recreation Area in the afternoon, with lunch included!

5. ATV and Camel Safari Adventures

Camel Safari Las Vegas offers an adventurous and unique way to explore the stunning Mojave Desert. Located just an hour north of the city, this attraction combines the thrill of riding UTVs through 176 acres of desert trails along with the charm of the numerous animals at this ZAA Accredited Zoo. With over 30 camels on-site, these gentle giants add an exotic and memorable twist to your Las Vegas adventure. In addition to camel rides when the weather is safe, the facility is home to a variety of other exotic animals, including zebras and alpacas, making it a fun and educational outing for all ages. Perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers!

4. Hiking at Mount Charleston

When the desert heat becomes too intense, head to Mount Charleston, located just 45 minutes from Las Vegas. This cooler alpine retreat offers lush forests, seasonal wildflowers, and refreshing mountain air. Popular hikes include the Mary Jane Falls Trail and the Cathedral Rock Trail, both of which offer stunning vistas and opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and wild horses.

3. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Just a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers a striking contrast to the city’s urban excitement. This stunning conservation area features dramatic red sandstone cliffs, winding hiking trails, and incredible opportunities for rock climbing. Popular trails like the Calico Tanks Trail and Ice Box Canyon reward hikers with breathtaking views and hidden oases. For a more leisurely experience, take the 13-mile scenic drive through the park and soak in the beauty from the comfort of your car.

2. Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the Colorado River

Escape the desert heat with a water adventure on the Colorado River. Paddle past towering canyon walls, natural hot springs, and through Emerald Cave, known for its stunning green waters. Need gear and/or wheels? Book your exclusive Kayak + Bronco package today and plan your adventure to glide across the calm, pristine waters of the Colorado River.

1. Valley of Fire State Park

Known for its fiery red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs, Valley of Fire State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers. Explore the park’s unique landscapes on trails like the Fire Wave or Mouse’s Tank, and discover stunning geological features, such as natural arches and slot canyons. The park is especially magical during sunrise and sunset when the rocks glow with vibrant hues. Rent one of our private Broncos for 24 hours, or more, and explore this State Park on your own!

Tips for Exploring Outdoors in Las Vegas

* Stay hydrated: The desert heat can be intense, so always carry plenty of water.
* Wear sunscreen: Protect your skin from the strong sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
* Plan ahead: Some activities, like helicopter tours and kayaking trips, require advance reservations.
* Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear for hiking or exploring.

Las Vegas isn’t just about the glitz and glamour of the Strip. Its surrounding landscapes offer a treasure trove of outdoor adventures that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or soaring through the skies, the natural beauty of the desert is yours to explore!

January 27, 2025