Escape from Vegas to Spring Mountain Ranch

Taken by Lauren Hyde

Most people have heard of Red Rock, but you may not know that just down the road is Spring Mountain Ranch. The State Park offers hiking trails, tours of a historic ranch, large grassy areas, and outdoor theater during the summer.

Spend the day hiking numerous trails around the beautiful Spring Mountains and through the foothills. Afterward, you can enjoy a picnic in the large grass areas, play frisbee, or kick a soccer ball around. You can also walk through the ranch house, once owned by Howard Hughes, and the surrounding land where you might be able to spot some donkeys. The ranch’s greenery against the rocky landscape makes it a unique oasis in the middle of the desert. 

Between May and September, Super Summer Theatre puts on musicals in the evenings at the amphitheater. Guests spread out across the lawn with blankets and picnic dinners to enjoy the show under the starry night sky. Even though it s summertime, the evening temperatures are much cooler out there; you might even need a sweater! Productions are expected to resume this summer.  

Taken by Lauren Hyde

Spring Mountain Ranch is about 20 miles east of the Las Vegas Strip, or 30 minutes by car. There is a $10 entrance fee per vehicle, which allows full access. The park is open year-round, but hours vary by season, so make sure to check here when planning your trip. Make sure to come prepared with plenty of water and snacks since it is a remote location.