Las Vegas can be a fun diversion from the routine of life. But after a while, even a good thing can get tiresome. Fortunately, Las Vegas is surrounded by attractions less than 100 miles from the heart of the city. If you would like to experience a side of the area that most people ignore, you shall be rewarded for your efforts.
Head west on Charleston Boulevard and visit Red Rock Canyon. Just 20 minutes west of the strip, this canyon is a national conservation area and good change of pace from the city. You can drive the 13-mile scenic route, stop for a picnic, enjoy hiking on over 30 miles of trails or go rock climbing. There is also a visitor center.
Drive to the Bonnie Springs Ranch after visiting the canyon. This area was once a working cattle ranch and was first built during the 1840s. Close to the ranch is Old Nevada, a replica of a mining town that once existed on the ranch property. This is a great place if you have children as there is a petting zoo, a small train on the weekends, cowboys and cowgirls staging fights, a wax museum and a restaurant, too.
Jump in the water at Lake Mead National Recreation and forget about the heat for a while. Lake Mead is the largest man-made lake in the United States and is located 30 miles southeast of the strip. You will be doing yourself a favor by renting a houseboat for the night and exploring the area. Ruggedly beautiful, the lake is also well known for water skiing and boating.
Combine this trip with a visit to the Hoover Dam. Lake Mead was created when the Colorado River was backed up as a result of the Hoover Dam being built. Though currently not the largest dam in the world, you can not help but be moved by descriptions of the work that went into building it. Take the 55-minute tour that leads visitors deep into the inside of the dam.
Climb up to the top of Mount Charleston for astounding views of the Las Vegas area. Head west 35 miles from the strip and enjoy mountain air that is on average 25 degrees cooler than the city. If you need a quick fix of of old fashioned cool air during the peak heat of summer, Mt. Charleston is it. There is not much in the area other than a small community and the rustic Mt. Charleston Lodge. The Lodge serves meals for visitors and lodge guests.
Saddle up and take a ride between the peaks. Besides horseback riding, you will find there is camping, climbing, numerous hiking trails and picnic areas. A part of the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, Mt. Charleston turns into a skier and snowboarder paradise during the winter months.
