Just a short drive away from the bustling streets of the Las Vegas Strip lies the serene and picturesque Mount Charleston also known as The Spring Mountains Recreational Area. Featuring breathtaking vistas, pristine hiking trails, and a wealth of outdoor adventures, this area is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're craving a thrilling outdoor excursion or a leisurely day surrounded by the beauty of the wilderness, Mount Charleston offers an adventure for everyone.
Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway
Start your adventure at the Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway, where you can gather information about the area's trails, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. Aside from some national holidays or major weather events, the Visitor Center is open daily from 9am-4pm. Located within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, this visitor center serves as an excellent starting point for your exploration of Mount Charleston and the surrounding Spring Mountains National Recreation Area.
Hiking Trails
Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an unforgettable journey along the numerous hiking trails that crisscross the Spring Mountains that features 13 well-maintained trails spanning over 60 miles. With many beginning at elevations exceeding 6,000 feet and reaching heights as lofty as 11,916 feet at Charleston Peak. From the scenic Trail Canyon to the challenging Mary Jane Falls trail, there's a route for hikers of all skill levels to enjoy. As you traverse through lush forests, streams, and rugged terrain, keep an eye out for glimpses of wildlife and the occasional breathtaking vista of the Las Vegas Valley below.
Horseback Riding
Experience the beauty of Mount Charleston from a different perspective with a guided horseback riding adventure. Trot through alpine meadows, pine forests, and serene mountain trails as you soak in the tranquility of nature. Whether you're a novice rider or an experienced equestrian, this fun activity offers a unique way to explore the natural wonders of the area.
Explore more on horseback riding in Mount Charleston with these companies:
Grand Canyon Western Ranch (https://grandcanyonwesternranch.com/activities.cfm#1)
Wild West Horseback Adventures (https://www.wildwesthorsebackadventures.com/tours)
Vegas Mountain Horseback Riding Tours (https://silverstatetour.com/horseback-riding-tours/)
Mountain Biking
For adrenaline junkies seeking an exhilarating outdoor adventure, mountain biking in Mount Charleston is the new, must-do activity. With a variety of trails ranging from beginner to expert, cyclists can pedal their way through scenic landscapes and rugged terrain while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Lee Canyon is offering a Mountain Bike Power Pass for the 2024 season that gives mountain bikers access to unlimited uplifts. With this pass, bikers have access to Lee Canyon, Brian Head, Purgatory, and Pajarito all summer long. Be sure to bring your own bike or rent one from a local outfitter to start your two-wheeled adventure.
To purchase Lee Canyon's Mountain Bike Power Pass, visit: https://store.leecanyonlv.com/Products.aspx?node=136&descrip=MTN+Biking+Season+Pass
Ski Resort
During the winter months, Mount Charleston transforms into a winter wonderland, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities at Lee Canyon Ski Resort. With pristine slopes, fresh powder, and stunning alpine scenery, it's the perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. Lift ticket prices vary by demand, but during off-season lift tickets run as low as $19. Typically, lift ticket prices are $59 on weekdays and $69 on weekends. Whether you're hitting the slopes for the first time or carving through challenging terrain, Lee Canyon Ski Resort promises an unforgettable snow-filled experience.
For more information on Lee Canyon, visit https://www.leecanyonlv.com/
Outdoor Activities
From picnicking in scenic meadows to birdwatching along tranquil streams, Mount Charleston offers a myriad of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Pack a picnic and head to one of the area's designated picnic areas for a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature's beauty. Or, grab your binoculars and embark on a birdwatching excursion to spot a variety of avian species that call the mountains home.
The Lodge at Mount Charleston
The Lodge at Mount Charleston is a charming mountain retreat situated high above the desert landscape of Las Vegas, Nevada. Guests can dine at Pine Dining, unwind with a drink at the bar, or simply relax on the outdoor patio while soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. With its proximity to hiking trails, skiing slopes, and other outdoor adventures, the Lodge at Mount Charleston serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the natural wonders of the region.
The iconic Lodge is set to undergo renovations, promising an entirely new and refreshed look. The updated renderings and design plans for the Lodge show close to 25,000 square feet of space including private rooms for events, a restaurant, multiple bars, spacious outdoor deck space with beautiful mountain views, and a parking garage with about 190 spaces.
To read more about the new Lodge, visit: https://www.ktnv.com/news/first-look-new-mt-charleston-lodge-new-rendition-of-iconic-landmark
Planning Your Visit
When planning your trip to Mount Charleston, consider factors such as weather conditions, trail difficulty, and activity duration to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Additionally, be sure to check for any travel restrictions or closures due to seasonal changes or special events. There are many great things to do in Mount Charleston, whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, natural beauty, or a taste of city life. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an unforgettable journey to this hidden gem in the heart of Nevada.
To learn more about Mount Charleston, visit: https://www.gomtcharleston.com/
