The Most Popular Hiking Trails of Nevada: You Might Not Make It Out If You’re Not Ready

When you think of Nevada, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the neon lights of Las Vegas or the vast, barren expanses of the desert. But if you’re a survival prepper or someone who enjoys the raw power of nature, you know there’s a lot more to this state than its iconic cities. Nevada is home to some of the most rugged, remote, and demanding hiking trails in the country—trails that will test your physical and mental limits. Whether you’re scaling craggy peaks, navigating narrow canyons, or trekking across arid deserts, these trails are not for the faint of heart.

Hiking Trails: Nevada Hiking

If you’re not prepared for the harsh conditions, these trails will remind you quickly just how unforgiving nature can be. The scorching desert heat, sudden storms, freezing nights, and lack of water are all risks you need to be ready for. That’s why, as a survival prepper, I always say the same thing: you don’t just hike these trails, you survive them. But for those of you who are prepared, these trails are some of the most rewarding and stunning hikes you’ll ever experience.

So grab your gear, check your supplies, and let’s take a look at the top 20 hiking trails in Nevada. But let me warn you: if you’re not ready for the challenge, you might not make it out.

1. The Mount Charleston Wilderness

Located just outside of Las Vegas, Mount Charleston is the highest peak in southern Nevada. The wilderness offers a mix of high-altitude forest, alpine meadows, and rugged, rocky terrain. The Charleston Peak Trail is one of the most popular routes here, but don’t let the beauty fool you—it’s tough. With a 14-mile round-trip and an elevation gain of over 4,000 feet, you’ll feel the climb. The weather can change rapidly, and you’ll need to be prepared for everything from sudden snowstorms to blistering sun.

2. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon is known for its jaw-dropping red sandstone formations, but it’s not just for casual day hikers. The La Madre Mountains Loop is a serious backcountry trail that pushes you through rocky terrain, desert landscapes, and stunning vistas. You need to be ready for temperature swings and long stretches without water. If you’re planning to attempt this, bring a good map and be ready for a 14-mile journey that can quickly go from pleasant to punishing.

3. Desolation Canyon

If you’re looking for isolation, Desolation Canyon in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is a perfect fit. This 13-mile trail winds through remote canyons, steep ridges, and rugged, dry terrain. It’s a grueling hike, and many parts of the trail are not well-marked. You’ll need navigation skills, extra water, and a full understanding of the desert environment. Getting lost here is a real risk, and cell service is practically nonexistent.

4. Great Basin National Park: Wheeler Peak Trail

For those looking to conquer one of Nevada’s highest peaks, the Wheeler Peak Trail in Great Basin National Park is a must. This 8.6-mile out-and-back trail climbs 3,000 feet, taking you from the lush lower valleys to the rocky summit at 13,065 feet. It’s a challenging ascent, especially at high altitudes, so be sure you’ve acclimated beforehand. The weather can change in an instant, and altitude sickness is a real risk.

5. Black Rock Desert: Playa to Pyramid Lake

Known for its remoteness and harsh conditions, the Black Rock Desert offers a surreal experience. This 60-mile trek from the Playa to Pyramid Lake is an endurance test for even the most experienced hikers. The trail takes you across barren desert flats, and you won’t find much shade or water. You’ll need a full survival kit, a solid understanding of desert navigation, and the mental fortitude to survive in a truly unforgiving landscape.

6. Kings Canyon

Located in the Toiyabe National Forest, Kings Canyon is a rugged, remote trail that offers stunning views of high desert plateaus, deep canyons, and rocky ridgelines. The trail is only for those who are ready to handle serious elevation changes, difficult terrain, and long stretches without water sources. Expect to be out there for several days, and make sure you’ve got a good survival kit with you.

7. Mount Tipton Trail

Part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, the Mount Tipton Trail is a shorter but intense hike that rises quickly from desert valleys to mountain ridgelines. The views are spectacular, but so are the challenges. You’ll be hiking in extreme heat and dealing with steep climbs. Be sure to bring a lot of water and wear sturdy boots, because the trail is rocky and loose in places.

8. Ruby Mountains: Lamoille Canyon

The Ruby Mountains are often referred to as the “Swiss Alps” of Nevada due to their steep cliffs, alpine lakes, and lush meadows. The Lamoille Canyon Trail is a scenic but challenging route that takes you through pristine forests, across rushing streams, and up to the high alpine. This is a great option for those looking to test their endurance in the wild. The temperature drops drastically at night, and you may encounter wildlife like mountain lions or bears, so always be prepared.

9. Sloan Canyon

The Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is famous for its petroglyphs, but the hiking is no less impressive. The Sloan Canyon Trail can be strenuous, especially if you’re tackling the high desert terrain during the hot summer months. The climb can be brutal, but the historic petroglyphs make it worth the effort. Plan your trip carefully, and carry plenty of water.

10. The Tahoe Rim Trail

This 165-mile trail is a classic among long-distance hikers. It takes you around Lake Tahoe, covering diverse terrain, including alpine forests, meadowlands, and rocky ridges. The elevation gain can be grueling, especially in certain sections, but the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains make it one of the most beautiful treks in the state. It’s a demanding trail, and you’ll need at least a few days to tackle it.

11. Humboldt Peak Trail

For serious adventurers, Humboldt Peak in the Ruby Mountains offers a 9-mile round trip through steep, rugged terrain. The trail is challenging, with a steep ascent and limited water sources along the way. You’ll be treated to panoramic views from the summit, but getting there requires careful planning and a healthy dose of grit.

12. Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

Known for its unique desert wetlands, Ash Meadows offers a different kind of challenge: hiking through some of Nevada’s hottest, driest terrain. The trails here are flat, but the temperatures can easily climb over 100°F in summer. This is a perfect place to hone your desert survival skills and learn how to manage water and temperature on the move.

13. Bristlecone Pine Forest

The Bristlecone Pine Forest in the Great Basin National Park is home to some of the oldest trees on the planet. The Bristlecone Trail offers a unique hiking experience, taking you through high-altitude forests and offering incredible views of the Great Basin below. The air is thin up here, so be prepared for altitude sickness and weather changes that can quickly make things difficult.

14. The Buckskin Trail

In the Black Rock Desert, the Buckskin Trail is a rugged, 15-mile trek that will test your endurance, navigation, and survival skills. The path winds through rugged terrain and often takes you far from any reliable water sources. As a prepper, you’ll know that water is key here, and bringing a water filtration system is essential for a safe journey.

15. Mount Moriah Wilderness

Located in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the Mount Moriah Wilderness is a true backcountry experience. The Mount Moriah Trail is difficult, with steep ascents, difficult footing, and stretches with no water sources. But the reward is immense: breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys that are mostly untouched by human development.

16. Cathedral Gorge State Park

Cathedral Gorge is one of Nevada’s hidden gems. The Cathedral Gorge Trail takes you through narrow canyons, towering rock formations, and expansive desert vistas. The heat in this area can be extreme, and the trail requires you to be cautious and well-prepared. If you’re not used to the desert environment, you may struggle with this one.

17. Shoshone Falls Trail

Shoshone Falls is a spectacular hidden gem in Nevada, and the Shoshone Falls Trail is a moderately challenging trek. The falls are often overshadowed by the more famous Niagara Falls, but they’re just as magnificent. The hike to the falls includes some steep sections and requires you to be comfortable with exposed terrain and a bit of scrambling.

18. Walker Lake Trail

Located in central Nevada, the Walker Lake Trail offers hikers stunning views of the lake and surrounding desert. It’s a moderately challenging trail with rocky terrain, but the real challenge comes from the harsh environment. The area is often extremely hot during summer, and you’ll need to plan carefully to avoid heat exhaustion or dehydration.

19. The Wildcat Canyon Trail

The Wildcat Canyon Trail is located in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and offers a challenging desert hike with stunning views of the Colorado River. The trail can be difficult, with long stretches without water, so make sure you have a solid hydration plan. It’s a hike for the experienced prepper, and it’s always wise to bring a compass or GPS to avoid getting lost.

20. Cave Lake State Park

Cave Lake State Park is a hidden treasure in Nevada’s wilderness. The Cave Lake Trail takes you through dense forests, over rocky terrain, and alongside cool alpine lakes. The hike can be tough at times, but the views and cool temperatures at higher elevations are worth it. This is a great spot to hone your wilderness survival skills before tackling more extreme hikes in Nevada.

---

These 20 hiking trails are among the best in Nevada, but they are not for the unprepared. You’ll need to be ready for the unpredictable, whether it’s extreme temperatures, altitude changes, or getting lost in the wild. Always carry the essentials: water, food, a first-aid kit, proper gear, and most importantly, knowledge of the terrain and weather conditions.

In the world of survival prepping, hiking is about more than just getting from point A to point B—it’s about surviving and thriving in some of the harshest environments out there. So, before you head out on these trails, make sure you’re ready for whatever Nevada’s wild landscape can throw at you. Stay safe, stay prepared, and hike smart. You never know when you’ll need to use your survival instincts to make it back out.