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 The Monument Arch has been a quest of mine for several years. At first I thought it might be an illusion. As time passed I forgot about it until Davis just happened to catch the Arch in a photo taken from Black Velvet Peak. After inspecting the photo, the hunt was on again! From previous hikes to East Monument Peak I was convinced the Arch was a technical hike (ropes) from the east. Davis and I figured we would approach it from the west, which meant hiking to West Monument and then somehow find a route down to the Arch. Not an easy task for an illusive Arch that might not exist! Attempt 1 On December 7th, 2001, Davis and I tried to find the Arch by ascending to West Monument and then descending the Gully of Death. About halfway down the gully the sun started to sink and we got out of there. Attempt 1 was a dismal failure. The only thing we learned was this was going to be a long hike. Also, we learn that our combined IQ's during the hike didn't reach into double digits! Attempt 2 On an early morning in January, Davis and I tried again to find the Arch. This time our trailhead was off of Lovell Canyon road, the same trailhead for "The Park" hike. We figured this was a quicker approach than from Black Velvet trailhead. We hiked to West Monument and started the descent. Once past where we turned around last time, the going became tough. It was loose and brushy and death was in the air! Finally, we were just around the corner from the Arch. We turned the corner and... No Arch, it was an illusion! There was an Arch type structure without the Arch. Maybe in a few thousand years it will become an Arch. I don't thing we'll wait. We were disappointed to say the least. I wouldn't have believed it unless I saw it with my own eyes. Photos Don't Lie We tried to return the camera that took the photo of the Arch claiming it was defective. The store manager promptly threw us out of the store. We looked at the photo again and realized we were defective. We had stopped about 75 yards shy of the real Arch. We were almost 100% sure there was an Arch. We planned to wait until the long days of April to nail the Arch. Attempt 3 On a warm day in mid-April we started at Black Velvet trailhead on our quest to stand in the Arch. We both agreed the hike in from Black Velvet was better than the hike in from Lovell Canyon road. It didn't matter to us that it was longer. As we approached the "Ledges" Davis hurt his ankle. Having watched several episodes of Marcus Welby, MD when I was a kid, I offered to operate on it. Davis declined. The Arch got us again! I think it was smiling! Attempt 4 On May 14th, 2002, we were certain the Arch was ours! We were both in good shape and the daylight stretched into the evening. We departed from Black Velvet trailhead, ascended to West Monument, and descended the Gully of Near Death. This time we walked the additional 75 yards and... there was the Arch. The only thing that separated us was a 60-foot, class 5, wall! Where did that come from? It was not apparent in Davis' photo. We both collapsed. I am sure the Arch was laughing at us. Time To Bring In The Professional Ed Forkos has been climbing mountains for 40 years. He's very knowledgeable and puts safety first. I told him about the Arch and he wanted to conquer it. Bringing ropes and webbing with him, we planned to approach the Arch from the east and descend into a ramp that leads to the Arch. From my previous trips I knew if we could get to the ramp, we had it made. I talked Peter and Anna into coming along. Suckers! On Halloween 2002, the four of us started walking toward East Canyon in our hiking costumes on route to the Arch. On an previous hike I had descended Arch Canyon, so we decided to climb it instead of following the traditional route. Part of the climb was class 4. Once near the Arch, I showed Ed all the routes down to the ramp and we decided on one. After finding an appropriate anchor, Ed tied me into the 100-foot rope and I started descending to the ramp. Peter thought it would be a good idea to tie the rope around my neck. I disagreed and kicked him off the hike. I believed it was going to be a class 3 descent. I was wrong! It was class 4, at least. The rope was very reassuring. I inched my way down to the ramp and started running toward the Arch. Slam! I forgot to untie the rope. Thankfully it wasn't around my neck. After untying the rope, I walked to the Arch. Wow! It was taller than I had thought. I was finally standing in the Arch. I wanted to find a better way to the Arch. I looked where I descended and did not find an easy descent route. Ed yelled down to me about coming in from above the Arch. I scrambled up a chute next to the Arch and walked east toward a small drop-off. Ed and Anna were at the bottom of the drop-off. They climbed up the awkward face and we descended to the Arch. We had made it. The Arch is NOT on topo maps. I believe we are the first to stand in the Arch. I have never talked to anyone who knew about the Arch. We figured the Arch was at least 100 feet tall. It's more impressive than the Arch at Bridge Mountain. It seems like a long time ago, and I guess it was. During the spring of 1996, I called Eva with a crazy idea: Let’s try to hike to Mummy, Charleston, and Griffith Peaks in one day. She thought I was kidding. I wasn’t. On July 28th, 1996, Eva, Susan, and I did the first Multi Peak Hike in Mt. Charleston. It has always been my favorite.
Fast-forward to July 6, 2003. It's now time for the 8th Annual Multi Peak Hike. This year we had more participants than any other year. Beside Susan and me, (we have done all eight Multi-Peak Hikes) Nick, Debbie, Anna, and Valentina joined us for a “little” walk in the mountains. I wanted to do something different this year. We decided on Mummy’s Forehead, Chin, Tummy, Charleston Peak, and Griffith Peak. The route was approximately 18 miles and over 7,000 feet of elevation gain. The first half of the route was cross-country. The hike was essentially Mummy Head to Toe without the Toe, but adding the Forehead. Once at Mummy we would descend to the North Rim Ridge and followed it to Devil’s Thumb. A quick climb of Devil’s Thumb and then on to Charleston Peak. After taking a break at the highest point in southern Nevada, we would descend the South Loop Trail, bagging Griffith Peak on the way down. A perfect Sunday morning in early July found six hikers (Anna, Debbie, Susan, Valentina, Nick, Myself) at the trailhead just before 7 asking themselves: Why am I doing this? After preparing for the hike, we followed the standard route through the woods and into the drainage. After ascending the drainage within 100 yards of the saddle, we encounter the first Class 4 climb. Once up, we continued to the summit of Mummy’s Forehead. The route from Mummy’s Forehead to Mummy’s Chin has never been good, and, in my opinion, it still isn’t. It’s either a descent of hundreds of feet only having to make it up or traverse along very loose scree chutes. Since we would gain over 7,000 feet, we opted for the traverse. It’s not pleasant. (I will try to find a better route later this summer.) Some 45 minutes later we were standing on Mummy’s Chin. In the past when hiking from Mummy’s Chin to Mummy Mountain (highest point on Mummy), we have descended hundreds of feet into a gully only to ascend back up. We took a gamble and stayed high near the east wall. After negotiating one easy Class 4 downclimb, the gamble paid off. We were now at the start of a long ascent to Mummy. Valentina and I decided to climb, instead of following the traditional route. After some fun Class 4 and a short Class 5 pitch, we were on the summit plateau. We all met at Mummy and signed the book. Valentina started her collection of animal-looking logs here, which she carried all the way down to the top of the scree slope! In my mind the physically challenging part was over, though I knew the long walk down the South Loop Trail would be a challenge for my feet. It was now a scenic walk along the North Rim Ridge to Devil’s Thumb. One of the oddities along this route is The Landing. I swear you could land a small plane on it. (Dave disagrees, but he did not fly in the Civil War like I did.) Once beyond The Landing, we picked up the North Loop Trail and followed it about 0.5 mile to Devil’s Thumb. It was along this point Valentina left the group. Only being to elevation once before and hiking boots that were giving her trouble, she decided to walk down to the trailhead at Trail Canyon. We gave her a two-way radio and said goodbye. I wasn’t worried about her. Having a black belt in karate and been a professional boxer and kick boxer, she could whip anyone’s butt on the mountain. The route from Devil’s Thumb to Charleston Peak is a classic and avoids the tedious switchbacks of the North Loop Trail. Once up the initial climb, we got spread out. Some of us climbed, others avoided the climbs, and others just took off. Just before the steep part of the summit ridge, there’s an idyllic camping spot in Mt. Charleston; however, it would be a challenging hike with a full pack. Debbie, Susan, and I reached the peak and relaxed for a few minutes. Nick and Anna had already left. After a bite to eat and a change of socks, we took off down the South Loop Trail. Though it’s an easy walk, it’s boring. To make time go by I tried to coordinate how we were going to get everybody back together and get the cars. I really wasn’t sure where Valentina would end up: the trailhead, the wrong trailhead, Vegas, or Moscow! The 2-way radios were indispensable. We met Nick and Anna at the junction before Griffith Peak and confirmed our plans. They took off down the South Loop Trail and Debbie, Susan, and I went to bag Griffith Peak, the final peak. Some where along the path to Griffith Peak the altitude got to Susan and me as evident in the summit photo. A non-eventful walk down the Old South Loop Trail had us standing at the trailhead around 8 pm. We had completed another Multi-Peak Hike in Mt. Charleston without incident. Lessons Learned: Duct tape works great for preventing blisters. Eat and drink often to keep energy up and stay hydrated. Two-way radios are vital when attempting long hikes with several hikers. Even the best plans can change. History of the Multi Peak Hikes in Mt. Charleston 1996 Mummy, Charleston, and Griffith Route: Up Mummy Springs to Mummy, over to Charleston, down South Loop to Griffith, continue to saddle, down drainage to summer homes. Hikers: Susan, Eva, and Me. 1997 Mummy, Charleston and Griffith. Route: Trail Canyon to Mummy, over to Charleston, down South Loop to Griffith, and down to the trailhead. Hikers: Eva, Richard Baugh, Susan, and me. 1998 Eva, Richard Baugh, Susan, and me. Rained out after reaching Mummy. Hikers: Eva, Terri Melquist, Susan, and me. 1999 Griffith, Charleston, Mummy, Charleston, Griffith. Route: South Loop to Griffith, continue to Charleston, down North Loop to scree slope, up scree slope to Mummy, back to Charleston and Griffith, down to trailhead. Hikers: Len Zane (first three peaks), Susan, and me. 2000 Cancelled bad weather. 2001 Mummy, Charleston and Griffith Mummy via the southern route, North Rim Ridge to Charleston, South Loop to Griffith, and down to trailhead. Hikers: ??? 2002 Mummy, Charleston and Griffith. Route: Mummy via the Southern Route, North Rim Ridge to Charleston, South Loop to Griffith, and down to trailhead. Hikers: Nick Nelson, Susan, and me.  As promised here is my follow up review reporting on the durability of Columbia's Crestwood hiking shoe. I have done 20 scrambling hikes in this shoes to date, including one hike in Zion that had very rough terrain. As you can see the soles are holding up quite well. They have never slipped on the sandstone rock in any of the 20 hikes. All my hikes except for the Zion hike were in Red Rock Canyon on sandstone rock. For those who don't know Red Rock Canyon is just 15 miles west of Las Vegas, NV and is the premiere scrambling location in the country. What about the other parts of the shoe? These parts are holding up well. No tears, the stitching is holding up well also. The front of the toe is in great condition as is the rear of the shoe. The laces are in good shape. The Verdict: Columbia's Crestwood hiking shoe is a great scrambling shoe. They stick to the rock well. They are comfortable and durable. The best part is the price. Currently, they are $70, but will probably be on sale for Father's Day for $52. Columbia does have a 20% off code currently:EXTRA20. I do not know how long this code will be valid. If you become a member (it's free), you get free shipping. It’s not overnight shipping, but they should be delivered in 4 to 5 days. Of course you can do trail hikes in these shoes. To purchase: https://www.columbia.com/p/mens-crestwood-hiking-shoe-1781181.html These shoes are a great alternative to the more expensive approach shoes.   Your knees take a pounding while hiking the sandstone in Red Rock Canyon, which is just 20 miles west of Las Vegas, NV. The tips above will help protect your knees.
A few addition tips: Avoid doing deep squats even without weights. Listen to your body (knees). It will tell you when you need to be careful. Take rest days. The name of the game is longevity. I have done close to 3,000 hikes. I have never had knee surgery and my knees feel pretty good. If you are looking for a hiking club, check out the 52 Peak Club here in Las Vegas.  This is my review of Columbia's Crestwood Hiking Shoe - 4-20-2025 There are two factors that I feel are most important when evaluating an approach shoe: The Fit and Do they stick to the rock. To me fit means are they comfortable and are they true to size. I found these shoes very comfortable and lightweight. Long gone are the days when you had to break in a hiking shoe. They felt very comfortable when I first laced them up and more importantly all during my hike. Columbia uses TechLite™ midsole that provides sustained cushioning and impact absorption using lightweight responsive foam. I never felt the rock through the shoes. They were very true to size. I wear size 11 and they fit perfectly. I did not develop any hotspots, which is an indicator the shoe is not fitting properly. One thing I do is throw away the cheap insole and put a better insole in the shoe. The shoe fit just fine with the thicker insole. My grade: A  Do they stick to the rock? I bought these shoes for rock scrambling. My go to place to hike is Red Rock Canyon just 20 miles west of Las Vegas, NV. Red Rock has some of the best sandstone in the country and is a mecca for rock scrambling. I did a route called The Pegasus Route on Kraft Mtn. I have done this route over 30 times and know the route perfectly. I followed the route exactly so my evaluation would be accurate. In fact, I purposely used inferior footholds to really test the shoes. They stuck to the rock like the $150 shoes I used to wear. I never felt like the shoe was going to slip on the rock. A good shoe will give you more confidence on the rock. Columbia uses Omni-Grip, a non-marking outsole, that provides great traction on rock. At this point in time I do not feel there is much difference in the outsoles of any of the approach shoes, definitely not $100 difference. My grade: A  Another aspects to consider: These shoes have a rubber toebox on the outside. This lets you do foot/toe jams without your toes feeling it. Due to the stiff midsole, I was able to do some decent edging with these shoes. One of my pet peeves is the extra long shoelaces that some shoe manufacture use. They are too long and you have to tie triple knots or more to take up the slack. These shoelaces are a good length. They are easily replaced if needed. No fancy lacing system here, just one that works. The Final Consideration: Durability I am unable to provide a definitive answer at this time, as I have only done three hikes in these shoes. Once I have completed 25 hikes, I will update this review accordingly. Note: I bought these shoes. Overall Grade: A Tech Specs: Materials:Upper: Leather, mesh and webbing Midsole: Techlite™Outsole: Omni-Grip™ Price: $60 including shipping from Amazon. I am a Prime Member. I got the shoes the next day. Link to buy  Hiking is a fantastic way to connect with the great outdoors, providing breathtaking views and a thrilling sense of exploration. Whether you're traversing towering mountains or wandering through peaceful forests, here are some of the best hiking destinations worldwide that cater to hikers of all skill levels. Unique Greek Tours.
Inca Trail, Peru Renowned worldwide, the Inca Trail is a must-visit for trekking enthusiasts. This iconic four-day journey leads hikers through the majestic Andes to the historic site of Machu Picchu. Trekkers experience diverse ecosystems along the trail, from high-altitude grasslands to tropical forests, and explore ancient ruins. The breathtaking scenery, combined with the rich history of the Inca civilization makes this trek a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you're planning to hike internationally, make sure to fast track your passport renewal to ensure you have everything ready for your adventure. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile Set in the breathtaking landscape of Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is a hiker's paradise. The park features a range of trails, with the W Trek being especially favored by outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers are treated to awe-inspiring views of granite peaks, shimmering lakes, and sprawling glaciers. Wildlife enthusiasts may also catch glimpses of guanacos, foxes, and even pumas. With its striking landscapes and diverse wildlife, Torres del Paine is an exceptional hiking locale. Dolomites, Italy The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcase some of Europe's most stunning hiking trails. Situated in northern Italy, this mountain range features dramatic peaks and lush valleys. The Alta Via 1 is a popular multi-day route that takes trekkers through quaint alpine villages, breathtaking vistas, and picturesque landscapes. The area is abundant in culture and gastronomic treasures, making it a perfect destination for hikers who appreciate both the beauty of nature and the richness of local experiences. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania As the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro draws adventurers from around the world. The trek to Uhuru Peak, the summit, poses a challenge that usually takes between five to nine days, depending on the chosen path. Trekkers will journey through various climatic zones, from lush tropical rainforests to rugged alpine tundra. Reaching the summit offers climbers sweeping views of the landscape below and an immense sense of accomplishment. Appalachian Trail, USA The Appalachian Trail (AT) extends over 2,190 miles, spanning from Georgia to Maine. It is one of the longest continuously marked hiking paths in the world, offering a variety of terrains—from gentle hills to steep mountains. Hikers can tackle the entire trail or choose shorter segments, making it accessible to adventurers of all abilities. As you hike along the AT, you'll experience the diverse beauty of the eastern United States, including lush forests, sparkling rivers, and picturesque valleys. Camino de Santiago, Spain The Camino de Santiago, or Way of Saint James, is a historic pilgrimage route that attracts hikers seeking spiritual fulfillment and stunning landscapes. The most popular route, Camino Francés, begins in the French Pyrenees and leads to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This journey allows hikers to experience diverse environments, charming towns, and a sense of community among fellow travelers. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, the Camino offers a warm welcome to those embarking on a meaningful journey. Conclusion Hiking provides a unique blend of physical challenge, natural beauty, and cultural enrichment. The destinations highlighted here are among the best in the world, offering unforgettable experiences for hikers of every skill level. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a novice, these trails promise to create lasting memories and deepen your appreciation for the wonders of nature. The best hiking companions are trekking poles, which inexperienced hikers frequently overlook. They provide stability, ease joint and knee pain, and can even improve your hiking experience in general. Due to the wide variety of alternatives available, picking the finest trekking poles is nothing short of a challenge. You won't need to worry because this manual will give you the necessary information. Material Matters
The longevity and effectiveness of your hiking poles rely on their construction. Al- or C-fiber is the most common material for hiking poles. Aluminum poles are great for novices and users on a tight budget since they are reliable and reasonably priced. They are strong and resilient to pressure. They weigh more, on the other hand. Poles made of carbon fiber are quite light, however. They are preferred by seasoned hikers and those who want to lessen their bags. They absorb shock well,reducing joint stress. However, they cost more and break more easily under extreme stress. Adjustability is Key Choose hiking poles with adjustable lengths if you can. These let you modify the pole's height to suit your requirements and topography. Adjustable poles are extremely helpful when navigating steep ascents or descents where you would prefer shorter or longer poles for improved stability. There are a variety of locking mechanisms for adjustable poles, including twist locks and lever locks.. Twist locks are simple to use and keep up, but they sometimes must be tightened. Lever locks give a solid grasp and are less likely to slide throughout your trek, although they are a little more complicated. Grip Comfort Long treks impact the health of your hands due to the grip of your trekking pole. Rubber, cork, and foam grips are often used. Foam grips are portable and insulated for a variety of weather situations. Cork grips conform to your hand and wick away moisture. Rubber grips are secure yet unpleasant to use, particularly in warm weather. Your preferred grip material should be based on your preferences for comfort and temperature. The ergonomics of the grip are also crucial to take into account; rounded grips prevent blisters and pain. Hiking with trekking poles has a lot of benefits, and a good one will improve your experience, especially in the comfort department. Basket Size and Type Your trekking pole's base has a basket serving several functions. It provides stability by preventing the pole from dunking too far into slush or snow. Additionally, baskets aid in preventing damage to the pole tips. The baskets on trekking poles are normally replaceable and available in different sizes. Larger baskets are preferred for trekking across snowy or difficult terrain. For casual trekking in easier terrain, smaller baskets are ideal. To minimize sinking in snow, some poles even include bigger snow baskets. Make sure the trekking poles you choose have interchangeable baskets for the terrain you want to hike on. Shock Absorption If you want to climb over rough or uneven terrain, shock absorption technology can greatly improve your trekking experience. Many trekking poles include springs or elastomers built into the shaft that act as shock absorbers or anti-shock devices. These characteristics make hiking easier and more pleasant by reducing the force on your wrists and arms. Purchasing poles with shock absorption will greatly increase your overall comfort and endurance if you have a history of joint issues or want to go on long-distance excursions. Weight Considerations For short walks, the weight of your trekking poles is not a huge worry, but as the length and complexity of your treks rise, it becomes more crucial. Poles that are lightweight are very useful for thru-hikers or backpackers who need to reduce the weight of their overall load. The preferred option for lightweight aficionados, carbon fiber poles can be expensive. For hikers wishing to lighten their load without breaking the bank, aluminum poles provide a more affordable choice. Make careful to strike a balance between cost and weight that suits your unique hiking requirements. Conclusion Selecting the best trekking poles requires careful evaluation of the material, adjustability, comfort of the grip, size of the basket, shock absorption, weight, and brand reputation. Each element is essential for improving your hiking experience and guaranteeing your safety on the path. Always keep in mind that the best trekking poles will rely on your individual tastes and hiking objectives, so carefully consider all of your possibilities before making a choice. SOURCES: https://www.switchbacktravel.com/how-to-choose-trekking-poles#:~:text=Choosing%20the%20Right%20Length&text=To%20measure%20your%20size%2C%20hold,will%20indicate%20your%20pole%20length. https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-trekking-poles/buying-advice https://www.treelinereview.com/howtochoose/trekking-poles  Las Vegas, although well known due to its vibrant nightlife and fantastic casino establishments, has so much more to offer. This includes the exhilarating experience of both hiking and fishing. With its diverse natural landscape, this bustling city provides a unique opportunity to combine the thrill of hiking through breathtaking trails with the excitement of fishing in serene waters. This article will explore the perfect blend of these activities in Las Vegas, focusing on buying the right gear and appropriate safety issues to make the most of your outdoor adventures. Understanding the Essential Fishing Gear
Having the right gear is crucial before embarking on hiking and fishing escapades in Las Vegas. Here are some essential pieces to consider: Fishing Rod and Reel: Selecting a rod and reel suitable for hiking requires careful consideration of weight, portability, and durability. Look for lightweight, compact options that won't weigh you down during your hikes. You can learn more here about the best fishing gear and customization options that suit your style and comfort. Most people use telescopic rods and spinning reels due to their collapsible design and versatility. Fishing Line: Opt for a fishing line that suits the conditions and target species in Las Vegas. Consider the line's weight capacity and choose a line that matches the type of fishing you plan to do. Tackle and Bait: Carry a selection of fishing tackle and bait that caters to the fish species found in Las Vegas waters. Research the local conditions or consult with experienced anglers to determine the most effective options. Buying Fishing Gear for Hiking and Fishing Adventures When purchasing fishing gear for hiking and fishing adventures in Las Vegas, keep the following factors in mind: Portability and Weight: Prioritize lightweight and portable fishing gear that won't burden your hiking trips unnecessarily. Look for collapsible rods, compact reels, and lightweight accessories you can easily carry in a backpack. Durability: Outdoor adventures involve exposure to various weather conditions and rugged terrains. Invest in gear made from durable materials such as graphite or carbon fiber that can withstand the rigors of your trip even in averse weather conditions. Versatility: Opt for versatile gear that can adapt to different fishing scenarios. Customization options, especially at meltontackle.com, are a good choice to go for. Consider ordering fishing rods with interchangeable tips or reels with adjustable drag systems. Research and Reviews: Before purchasing, research different options and read customer reviews. Online forums, websites, and outdoor gear retailers can provide valuable insights into the quality and performance of various products. Making Informed Decisions When Buying Fishing Gear Set a Budget: Determine and stick to your budget range. Remember, quality gear doesn't always have to break the bank. Find a balance between price and performance to ensure you get the most value for your investment. Seek Expert Advice: Visit local tackle shops or consult with experienced anglers to get personalized recommendations. They can provide valuable guidance based on their knowledge of the local conditions and the specific needs of hiking and fishing enthusiasts. Try Before You Buy: If possible, test out different options before purchasing. Attend outdoor expos or borrow equipment from friends to get a hands-on experience and determine which gear suits your preferences and style. Staying Safe While Hiking and Fishing in Las Vegas When it comes to staying safe while being outdoors in Las Vegas, always be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the terrain you're walking on, as well as any potential hazards that may be present. Ensure you have the proper gear for the activity you're engaging in, such as sturdy shoes or boots for hiking and appropriate clothing for fishing. Do not forget to carry plenty of water with you, as dehydration can be a serious issue in the desert climate of Las Vegas. It's also important to let someone know where you'll be going and when you plan on returning so they can check up on you if necessary. Finally, always carry a first aid kit with you just in case of an emergency. Conclusion The unique combination of hiking and fishing in Las Vegas provides an extraordinary outdoor experience for adventure enthusiasts. By understanding the essential gear choices, making informed buying decisions, considering the specific requirements of your adventures, and keeping in mind safety considerations, you can embark on memorable journeys through picturesque trails while enjoying the excitement of catching fish in the serene waters of Las Vegas.  Figure 1 Hiking is an unforgettable experience. But you need to be prepared We all know why most people come out to Las Vegas. The bright lights and excitement of the entertainment capital are a major attraction for people from all over the country – and the wider world. The Vegas betting establishments are the best on the planet – if you like that sort of thing – and the casinos are always doing good business. We don’t have anything against the casinos of our home city. But we also know that there is a lot more to this place than just the tables and slots. The desert is a beautiful and vibrant region and one that is ideal for exploring by hiking. More people seem to be discovering this these days. But newcomers and experienced hikers alike should ensure that they are aware of the following safety tips before they head out. Be PreparedThis probably sounds a little vague. But hiking in the Nevada desert is not like other places in the country. The heat and the conditions can really get to you, so preparing well is a necessity.  Figure 2 You must keep hydrated when hiking WeatherDon’t be under the misconception that the heat is the only weather effect you could encounter on a hike in the desert surrounding Las Vegas. You should ideally be hiking in the early mornings to escape the worst of the heat, but make sure you dress in layers to deal with other temperatures as well. You should check the weather reports before you set out, but you need to know that there are monsoons in Nevada at certain times of the year – and that the weather can change suddenly in the desert. Again, most of the knowledge here will be in the preparation – but don’t head out thinking you are only likely to get hot. Water is Life We briefly mentioned this at the start, but we really can’t understate just how important hydration is for hiking in this area. You should really have at least a liter of water for every hour of a hike – but always take extra anyway. You never know when you might come up against unforeseen circumstances. You should also pack water in a cooler and leave it where you start and finish your hike. That way you can rehydrate immediately after returning. Hiking around Las Vegas is incredibly rewarding but you want to be able to enjoy it to the fullest. Preparing thoroughly is the best way to get the most out of the experience. We will cover hydrating and hydration in a moment, but there are other things that you absolutely need for a Las Vegas hike. You should bring sun protection – and that includes hats and sunglasses as well as sunblock to keep out those UV rays. But your feet will also need some looking after. Comfortable hiking boots will give you better traction on what can be dangerous terrain. You should also make sure you have maps, compasses and GPS equipment – and, ideally, already downloaded versions of your route to consult. Danger Signs The scenery of the desert surrounding Las Vegas is just stunning. But there are plenty of dangers in the sometimes desolate landscape. You can be prepared all you like, but make sure that you recognize the danger signs before it gets too late out in the sun and the heat. Nausea, cramps and headaches could all mean that you are suffering from heat exhaustion. Make sure you take in water and rest in the shade. Eating high-energy foods is good here too. A flushed face, confusion and dry skin could all mean heat stroke. This is incredibly serious and if you are with someone exhibiting these kinds of symptoms you should cool them down as quickly as possible. Try to get help as well, as hospital attention will be needed. Wild Animals Spotting animals in the desert is a thrilling experience – and one of the main reasons why many visitors decide to go on a hike in the first place. But you should also be aware that these creatures will be wild and many could be very harmful if they are not afforded the respect they deserve by a visitor – i.e., you.
The animals you encounter should not be dangerous unless they feel threatened but do keep your eye out for any movements in the brush. There are also rattlesnakes to consider. Again, they should keep out of your way, but do carry a first aid kit and include knowing what to do about a rattlesnake bite as part of your hike preparation. What to Do After Hiking After an exhilarating hike through the stunning Las Vegas desert, it’s time to unwind and recharge. Whether you're looking to refuel with great food, enjoy a refreshing drink, or simply relax with friends, Atomic Golf is the perfect place to cap off your adventure. At Atomic Golf, you can experience the best of golf, food, and entertainment—all in one dynamic setting. Challenge your friends to a round of high-tech golf, savor delicious meals, and enjoy handcrafted cocktails in a lively atmosphere. It’s the ultimate way to round off a day of exploring the great outdoors while still enjoying the excitement of Las Vegas. So after conquering the trails, head to Atomic Golf for an unforgettable post-hike celebration!  It is important to know a vet you can trust your dog with because it will ensure that your pet receives the best possible care. A good veterinarian will be able to diagnose and treat any medical issues your dog may have and provide preventive care such as vaccinations and regular check-ups, which are essential today due to sneaky illnesses like heartworm, for example.
Additionally, having a vet you can trust means that you can ask questions about your pet’s health and get honest answers. This will help you make informed decisions about the care of your pet. Furthermore, if an emergency arises, having a familiar vet can make the situation less stressful for you and your pet. Knowing that your dog is in good hands with someone who knows them well can give you peace of mind. Here are the essential tips on how to find a good vet. Ask Your Neighbors Is it safe to say that word of mouth is one of the best ways to get straightforward advice these days. Asking your friends, co-workers or neighbors is a good place to start when searching for a vet that's right for you and your dog. If you live near Las Vegas, then ask around for a good local vet in Centennial Hills Nevada that has a reputation for excellent care and service. Once you get several recommendations, do some research to determine which option would be best for you and your furry friend. Read Online Reviews Reading reviews online can be a great way to find the best vet for your dog. By reading reviews, you can get an idea of what other pet owners think about the vet and their services. You can also learn about the quality of care they provide and if they are open after hours for emergencies. Also, you can read about how friendly and knowledgeable the staff is, and whether or not they are willing to answer questions or provide additional information. Furthermore, you can find out if the clinic offers any special services such as pet grooming, doggie daycare or overnight boarding. Finally, you can also read about how much experience the vet has with different types of animals and breeds. All of this information will help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing a vet for your beloved pet. After all, your dog is always there for you. Having a great veterinarian to turn to in case of an emergency with your dog ensures that you will always be there for them. |
AuthorBranch Whitney is the author of Hiking Las Vegas and creator of the 52 Peak Club where members hike to the best 52 Peaks around Las Vegas, NV Archives
April 2025
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