Easy Valley Of Fire State Park Day Trip Itinerary

Valley of Fire State Park is an otherworldly natural area located in Nevada, near Las Vegas.

The park is known for a unique desert landscape, red Aztec sandstone, geological wonders, and ancient petroglyphs dating back over 2,000 years.

Thanks to its close proximity to Las Vegas, the park sees many visitors each year. It’s easy to understand why this is one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas.

I’ve visited Vegas more times than I can count, and after hearing so many great things about this wonderful park, I’m glad I was finally able to visit.

If you’re planning a Valley of Fire day trip and wondering what to do, you’ve come to the right place!

Read on for a complete Valley of Fire day trip itinerary.

Getting To Valley Of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is located just south of Overton, Nevada. It’s roughly half way between Las Vegas and Mesquite.

The park has two entrances: West Entrance and East Entrance.

From Las Vegas

Planning a day trip to Valley of Fire from Las Vegas?

To reach the park, you’ll follow I-15 North for just over 30 miles. From here, follow Valley of Fire Highway to the park’s East Entrance.

The drive will take about 50 minutes.

From St. George, Utah

If coming from St. George, Utah, follow I-15 South for 65 miles.

You’ll then exit NV-169 S and follow it for 20 miles to the park’s West Entrance.

The drive requires about 1.5 hours.

Valley Of Fire Tours From Las Vegas 

You will need a car in Valley of Fire State Park, which I’ll get into below. There are plenty of rental car companies available in Las Vegas.

However, if you’d rather not drive, there are tour options available as well.

For a Valley of Fire guided tour with a highly reputable company, I recommend this small group excursion with Pink Jeep Tours: Valley of Fire State Park Tour with Pink Jeep Tours.

If interested in a private tour, which is best for groups, or those wishing for more of a custom itinerary, check out Las Vegas D-Tours: Valley of Fire State Park Tour (with private tour option).

Getting Around Valley Of Fire State Park

As mentioned above, you will need a car in Valley of Fire State Park.

The park is not huge, it’s very easy to navigate with a car. But attractions are too spread out for walking.

To get around the park you’ll mainly utilize Valley of Fire Highway and Mouse’s Tank Road.

Valley of Fire Highway  

Valley of Fire Highway (also called Valley of Fire Scenic Drive) is the park’s main road. It’s a picturesque route that winds through the park, connecting the East and West entrances.

It’s about 10.5 miles long and has many great attractions located just off the road.

Mouse’s Tank Road

Mouse’s Tank Road (also called White Domes Road) is the other scenic drive in Valley of Fire State Park. It’s only 5.5 miles and connects with Valley of Fire Highway. At their intersection is the park’s Visitor Center.

Mouse’s Tank Road is the best place in the park for scenic beauty, you’ll see gorgeous sites right from the road. This section also houses some of the park’s top hiking trails. 

Top Things To Do In Valley Of Fire State Park During A Day Trip

Below is an exact itinerary for one day in Valley of Fire State Park. This closely follows my route from a recent visit.

The day starts at the park’s East Entrance and makes its way west, but can easily be followed in reverse.

Beehives

One of the first sites upon entering the park’s east side are the Beehives.

These are red sandstone formations which resemble giant beehives. The sandstone formations have grooves throughout, formed from geologic cross-bedding. 

Geologic cross-bedding is a horizontal deposit transported by wind, water, or other natural forces. Each “bed” represents different layers of silt deposited here at different times.

The beehives are located right off the road, and there’s no defined trail here. Just get out and explore the hives. 

Atlatl Rock Petroglyphs

Atlatl Rock is one of the most popular things to see during a one day trip to Valley of Fire State Park.

The site is known for its stunning red sandstone formations and, most notably, ancient petroglyphs.

Atop a tall staircase, you’ll find carvings etched into the sandstone face by Native American peoples.

It’s unknown which Native Americans left behind these petroglyphs, but they are believed to be between 2,000 – 4,000 years old. 

That dates us back to around 2,000 B.C. through the transition into the AD era. During this time the Paiute people and Ancestral Pueblo people, also referred to as the Anasazi, lived in this area.

The rock is named for an atlatl, which is a spear thrower depicted on the rock art found here.

Like many attractions in the park, Atlatl Rock is just a short distance from the road and has a large parking area. You will have to climb a tall staircase to see the petroglyphs though.

Arch Rock

Just a short distance from Atlatl Rock is Arch Rock.

This is a natural sandstone arch located just off the road. It’s sculpted by erosion over millions of years, and is a great example of the park’s differing geological features.

It’s a small arch, and since it’s located just off the road, it’s easy to see this in a quick stop.

Visitor Center

The Valley of Fire Visitor Center is located in the middle of the park, at the intersection of Valley of Fire Highway and Mouse’s Tank Road. 

The center is a hub for information, with exhibits, access to park maps, brochures, and park rangers.

Additionally, you’ll find a gift shop, snacks, water, and restrooms here. 

Mouse’s Tank Road Photography Spot

Thanks to social media, a very popular photography spot has popped up along Mouse’s Tank Road.

The gorgeous spot shows narrow Mouse’s Tank Road winding through the dramatic, red rock landscape the park is so well known for. 

Some may roll their eyes at the thought of an Instagram-famous spot, but upon seeing it, you’ll understand the hype.

To access the unofficial overlook, you’ll park at Mouse’s Tank Trailhead. Just a few steps south of here you’ll spot a large, steep sandstone formation. After a quick climb, you’ll find spectacular views of scenic Mouse’s Tank Road.

Please use caution here, there are steep drop offs and the sandstone is slick. 

For those afraid of heights, like me, there’s a small pull off just south of the Mouse’s Tank parking area. This location will provide similar views, while keeping your feet firmly planted on the ground.

Fire Canyon Overlook / Silica Dome

One of my favorite spots in Valley of Fire State Park is Fire Canyon Overlook.

The vantage point offers an excellent view of the colorful valley, made up of red sandstone and white limestone. It’s a great place to take in the vast beauty of the park.

The overlook is located at the end of Fire Canyon Road, just about half a mile from Mouse’s Tank Road. It requires a very short walk to reach the overlook.  

Go For A Hike

The next section along Mouse’s Tank Road brings us to the park’s most popular hikes.

These are all short and relatively easy trails, so it’s possible to do them all in one day.

However, if you’re short on time, I recommend picking just one or two easy hikes. Fire Wave and White Domes would be my top picks.

Below are 4 popular hikes in the area:

Important Note: Many park trails close in summer months, usually between June 1st and October 1st. This is due to extreme heat in the park, and is for visitor safety. Popular trailhead parking lots, such as that for Fire Wave, are blocked off with concrete barricades.

Rainbow Vista Trail 

Rated Easy
1.1 miles
95 foot elevation change

This short, but sandy, trail offers excellent views of the park’s beautiful landscape. It even features natural sandstone arches and other unique rock formations. 

Fire Wave Trail

Rated Easy
1.3 miles
150 foot elevation change 

Fire Wave is easily the park’s most popular hike, in fact it’s one of the top things to do in Valley of Fire State Park.

The trail’s star is, not surprisingly, the Fire Wave. This cone-shape sandstone formation displays vibrant swirls of red, white, and pink. It’s as if Dr. Seuss himself dreamt it up. 

No doubt, it’s an incredible, visually striking rock.

Pastel Pink Canyon

Rated Easy
0.8 miles
45 foot elevation change

Pastel Pink Canyon is a short trail which can be hiked with Fire Wave via Seven Wonders Loop.

The trail follows a low, wide slot canyon featuring sandstone in varying shades of red, pink, and beige. 

This hike isn’t marked on the Valley of Fire map so it can be tricky to find.

I find All Trails to be the most helpful in finding this trail: All Trails Pink Canyon via Seven Wonders Trail.

White Domes Trail 

Rated Easy 
1.1 miles
171 foot elevation change

This is another sandy trail popular for park visitors. The loop features beautiful desert landscapes, a short slot canyon, and natural stone arches.

The trail has even been the filming location for various movies, including Star Trek Generations.

Petrified Logs

Now that you’ve gone for a hike, consider checking out the park’s petrified logs.

These logs-turned-stone can be found throughout the park, but a good concentration of them are right off Valley of Fire Highway. 

Petrified logs found in Valley of Fire State Park are estimated to be approximately 225 million years old.

These logs were part of a lush forest that existed in the area during the Late Triassic period, hard to picture that scene here today.

To see the logs you’ll walk a short, but steep, trail to the viewpoint. There’s a small parking area, and the logs are marked on the park map. 

Elephant Rock

Elephant Rock is one of the most recognizable rock formations in the park. The arch-like structure roughly resembles an elephant’s truck, hence the name.

It’s possible to see Elephant Rock while driving on Valley of Fire Highway, near the West Entrance. But it’s best to stop and take a short walk to really view the formation.

At Elephant Rock’s parking area you’ll also find a large shaded area with park information, and the popular “Greetings from Valley of Fire State Park” Polaroid sign.

This is one of the most popular spots to stop in the park, and if driving from the East Entrance to West, as we did, this will be your last stop.

Watch For Wildlife

Throughout your day in Valley of Fire State Park, keep an eye out for wildlife.

Despite the park’s harsh desert landscape, quite a bit of wildlife can be found here.

Birds and small mammals, like rabbits, kit foxes, and squirrels are common. Additionally, reptiles like lizards and snakes are frequently spotted.

Lucky visitors may even spot the illusive, and highly protected, desert tortoise.

The most sought-after wildlife spotting in the park, however, is the desert bighorn sheep. We saw more than we could count during our visit.

They’re fairly large and often grouped together, making them easy to find despite their keen ability to blend with the desert landscape.

We saw them atop rocks on Mouse’s Tank Road and eating ground shrubs along Campground Road.

Go For A Picnic

If you’re spending more than a few hours in the park, a lunch break will be in order.

The park doesn’t sell food, aside from small snacks available at the Visitor Center. So, plan to pack a lunch and find a cozy spot for a picnic during your day in Valley of Fire State Park.

Picnic areas will be marked on the Valley of Fire State Park map, which you’ll receive upon entering the park. The map can also be viewed here: Valley Of Fire State Park Map.

Of course, you can eat just about anywhere, whether or not there’s a picnic table. Just be sure to pack out any trash. There will not be trash bins unless you’re at a designated picnic site.

Additional Things To Do In Valley Of Fire State Park:

With more time, considering adding the following to your Valley of Fire itinerary: 

• Balanced Rock
• Natural Arch 
• Star Trek filming sites, including Captain Kirk’s grave.  
• Petroglyph Canyon Trail / Mouse’s Tank
• Historic Cabins 
• View the Seven Sisters
• Stargazing
• Camping

Valley Of Fire State Park One Day Itinerary

Valley Of Fire One Day Itinerary In Winter

Below is a one day itinerary for Valley of Fire during winter or cooler months.

This is the best time of year to truly explore the park, as mentioned previously, many park trails close in summer.

Valley Of Fire One Day Itinerary In Winter:

• Beehives 
• Atlatl Rock
• Arch Rock
• Mouse’s Tank Road Photography Spot
• Fire Canyon Overlook
• Hike Fire Wave (plus additional quick hikes in the area, if up for it).
• Visitor Center
• Picnic at Historic Cabins.
• Petrified Logs
• Elephant Rock
• Keep an eye out for wildlife throughout the day.

Valley Of Fire One Day Itinerary In Summer

During summer months the park’s highs regularly exceed 100°F, even climbing above 110°F.

The park strongly advises against hiking this time of year. Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid visiting the park during midday.

It’s best to visit this park during cooler months, but if that’s not possible, here is a Valley of Fire itinerary which requires minimal time outside.

This is the exact itinerary we followed during a visit in early June.

Valley Of Fire One Day Itinerary In Summer:

• Beehives 
• Atlatl Rock
• Arch Rock
• Mouse’s Tank Road Photography Spot
• Fire Canyon Overlook
• Visitor Center
• Elephant Rock
• Keep an eye out for wildlife throughout the day.
• Enjoy the beautiful sites along Valley of Fire Highway and Mouse’s Tank Road from the comfort of your car.
• ‘Picnic’ from the car while enjoying the scenery.

Valley Of Fire Entrance Fee 

Valley of Fire State park is $15/ vehicle, or $10 for Nevada residents.

The park is free for those with a Nevada Annual Entrance Permit.

Annual National Park Passes (America The Beautiful Pass) are not accepted here.

Valley Of Fire Hours

Valley of Fire State Park is open from sunrise to sunset every day, year-round.

Office and Visitor Center hours vary, but are normally about 9 am – 4 pm, and may be closed on holidays.

While the park is open year-round, there are seasonal trail closures. Closures are typically from June 1st – October 1st.

How Long Does It Take To Drive Through Valley Of Fire State Park?

Without stopping, it would take less than an hour to drive the entirety of the park.

However, with a few stops, plan for at least 2 – 3 hours in Valley of Fire State Park.

What To Pack For Visiting Valley Of Fire State Park 

Casual athletic wear and hiking gear lend themselves perfectly to a day spent in Valley of Fire State Park.

Whether or not you plan to hike, sturdy shoes with good traction are best. Most attractions and overlooks are not paved, they are red dirt, sand, or gravel.

Winter visitors will do best with warm, lightweight layers. Summer visitors need light, breathable fabrics.

No matter the time of year, sun protection, such as sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses, are a must.

Be sure to bring plenty of water any time of year, but especially if visiting during warmer months. Always carry water with you, even for short and ‘easy’ hikes.

Valley Of Fire State Park Weather

Valley of Fire State Park is hot and dry most of the year.

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, and the unrelenting sun will make the park feel even warmer than the thermometer indicates.

Early spring and late fall offer mild temperature in the 70° – 80°F’s. Winter sees the coolest weather, with highs in the upper 50°Fs.

Nighttime temperatures cool off significantly, especially in winter when it’s possible to dip below freezing.

Precipitation is sparse year-round, with only 4″ of annual rainfall on average. Winter sees occasional light rain showers, and summer sees brief afternoon thunderstorms.

Average Temperatures By Month:

• January – 57° / 39° (High / Low F°)
• February – 62° / 43°
• March – 70° / 48°
• April – 79° / 55°
• May – 89° / 64°
• June – 101° / 75°
• July – 106° / 81°
• August – 103° / 79°
• September – 96° / 71°
• October – 83° / 59°
• November – 67° / 47°
• December – 57° / 38°

When To Visit Valley Of Fire State Park 

Valley of Fire State Park is best visited in the cooler months, roughly late October – March.

Temperatures are pleasant this time of year, making the park great for hiking and exploring natural beauty.

During summer months, many hiking trails are closed due to extreme heat.

What Time Of Day Is Best To Visit Valley Of Fire State Park?

I recommend visiting the park early or later in the day, towards sunset, to avoid crowds.

Especially so if planning to do popular hikes, such as Fire Wave.

The park can get crowded midday, especially over weekends in peak season.

Valley Of Fire Camping

There are two campgrounds in Valley of Fire State Park, both operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Note: Valley of Fire State Park has recently added some reservation options depending on time of year, check out Valley Of Fire State Park Camping.

Atlatl Rock and Arch Rock Campgrounds offer a combined 72 spots, some suitable for RV hook ups.

Campgrounds include shaded picnic tables, grills, water, and restrooms. A dump station and showers are also available.

Some campgrounds close seasonally, it’s best to check the park website before heading out: Valley Of Fire State Park Camping.

Camping Near Valley Of Fire

Nearby camping can be found in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Additionally, Valley of Fire’s BLM territory is used for overflow camping, this is located near the park’s West Entrance.

Most visitors, however, will stay in nearby Las Vegas.

Are Dogs Allowed In Valley Of Fire State Park?

Pets are allowed in Valley of Fire State Park, but must be kept on a leash.

Is One Day Enough In Valley Of Fire State Park?

One day in Valley of Fire State Park is perfect.

The park is small and many attractions are located right off the road. Additionally, most hikes are short and don’t require much time.

For these reasons, Valley of Fire State Park makes for a perfect day trip.

Can You Spend A Half Day In Valley Of Fire State Park?

Yes, the park is small and easy to navigate making it suitable for a quick, half day trip. However, with just a half day you will need to cut out some popular attractions or hiking trails.

It would make for a long day, but it’s definitely possible to visit Valley of Fire in conjunction with other attractions around Vegas, such as the Hoover Dam or Red Rock Canyon.

Looking for more Vegas day trip ideas? Check out these Quick Day Trips From Las Vegas.

Is Valley Of Fire State Park Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. This is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas.

Thanks to the incredible Mojave Desert landscape, unique geology, and Native American history, anyone will love a visit to Valley of Fire State Park.

As you can see, there are many excellent sites in Valley of Fire State Park, and it’s possible to see a majority in just one day.

I hope you’ve found this helpful in planning your Valley of Fire day trip.

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Las Vegas and US Southwest guides, or head on over to Valley of Fire State Park.