As summer gives way to fall, the Las Vegas area emerges as a hub of outdoor beauty, offering an array of activities that locals know well. From mountains to rivers, wildlife habitats, and more, there are countless opportunities for exploration.
To encourage participation, various organizations are hosting a series of events aimed at the greater public. These accessible events are often free or have minimal costs associated and are perfect for individuals or families looking to take advantage of the natural surroundings this season.
### Upcoming Events
One exciting opportunity is the **August Night Hike**. Participants can take a self-guided hike along the Las Vegas Wash Trail on August 23 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Ice Age Fossils State Park, located at 8660 N. Decatur Blvd. Attendees are encouraged to bring red or UV flashlights, and entry into the park costs just $3. Please note that reservations are required.
Another event, **Dash & Splash**, features a 1.5-mile run combined with a 300-meter long-course swim. The event takes place at 8 a.m. on Saturday at Pavilion Center Pool, 101 S. Pavilion Center Drive, with a registration fee of $10.
For those interested in gardening, **Desert Gardening 101** will be held on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Springs Preserve, located at 333 S. Valley View Blvd. Participants will learn about choosing and caring for drought-tolerant plants, along with gardening tips from experts. This event is free but requires reservations.
If you’re an early riser, consider the **Early Bird Morning Stroll**. Join a Bureau of Land Management ranger for a guided three-mile hike on the Moenkopi Trail at 7 a.m. on either August 24 or August 31 at Red Rock Canyon. This event is designed to offer insights about the desert landscape and adaptations of local wildlife. Advance registration is required.
For those who enjoy trivia, **Red Rock Trivia** is an engaging option. This event takes place at 6 p.m. on August 30 at the Red Spring Pavilion in the fee-free Calico Basin area. Participants can match wits with fellow adventurers while learning fun facts about Red Rock Canyon. Attendees are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, and registration is not required.
### Organizations to Follow
A variety of local organizations enhance outdoor experiences in the Las Vegas area. **Black People Hike Las Vegas** is a club dedicated to dispelling stereotypes and encouraging African Americans to engage in outdoor activities like hiking, yoga, and camping. Founded by Donovan Childress during high school, it has grown from four members to 960 followers on Instagram, making it a vibrant community.
The **Las Vegas Astronomical Society** offers exciting events throughout the fall, including stargazing parties. These gatherings provide incredible opportunities to explore the night sky.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the **Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW)** manages nearly 900 species across the state. Their calendar of events includes activities ranging from bat walks to educational programs and fishing trips.
**Pride Outside** is another inclusive initiative. This program hosts monthly hiking events that welcome the LGBTQIA+ community and allies to explore various locations around Las Vegas, including Mount Charleston, Lake Mead, and Red Rock Canyon.
Southern Nevada’s chapter of the National Audubon Society, **Red Rock Audubon**, organizes regular bird walks led by volunteers at parks around Clark County. These walks are free but require registration, which often fills up quickly.
### Places to See in Town
If you’re looking for scenic destinations, the **Clark County Wetlands Park** is a must-visit. Spanning 2,900 acres, this park features a 210-acre nature preserve, attracting a vast array of native and migratory birds. With events hosted by Wetlands Park Friends, there’s always something happening.
The **Springs Preserve**, known as the birthplace of Las Vegas, is located in central Las Vegas. It features trails, museums, animal habitats, botanical gardens, and interactive exhibits. Fall events often include teaching gardens and family-friendly activities. Admission fees vary.
**Desert National Wildlife Refuge**, located just northeast of Las Vegas, is the largest wildlife refuge outside of Alaska. Visitors can enjoy birding, hiking, biking, and camping, as well as exploring backcountry roads, starting at the visitor center.
The **Ice Age Fossils State Park** at the northern edge of Las Vegas preserves a significant paleontological area. Visitors can delve into the valley’s prehistoric history at the visitor center while enjoying the park’s various trails, including the “Big Dig” trench.
Located in the Spring Mountains, **Lee Canyon** serves as a ski resort in winter and a summer escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities here range from mountain biking and yoga to disc golf, concerts, skiing, and snowboarding. There’s even a coffee shop and restaurant.
Another notable location is the **Valley of Fire State Park**, famous for its stunning red sandstone formations. Visitors can find trails, guided hikes, camping, and picnicking opportunities. While summer visits are possible, a $10 entrance fee applies.
### South of Las Vegas
In the southern part of the region lies **Avi Kwa Ame**, Nevada’s newest national monument near Searchlight. Here, Friends of Avi Kwa Ame organize events like night walks and educational meetings that emphasize environmental stewardship. Lake Mead National Recreation Area, recognized as America’s first national recreation area, is another fantastic nearby destination. It offers diverse activities including boating, kayaking, hiking, fishing, and camping.
### West of Las Vegas
For incredible natural beauty, **Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area** is a must-visit. As the most-visited natural wonder in Southern Nevada, it requires an entrance fee for its scenic drive, but many trails are freely accessible.
Just adjacent, **Spring Mountain Ranch State Park** preserves historical buildings and offers various trails for picnicking and enjoying the outdoors, alongside cultural events like the Super Summer Theater.
### Get Involved
For those eager to contribute, **Friends of Nevada Wilderness** offers volunteer opportunities to maintain Nevada’s natural beauty through trail work and native seed spreading.
**Get Outdoors Nevada** engages in a range of outdoor activities, hosting numerous volunteer events to promote stewardship and education. They have successfully organized 733 volunteer events between 2012 and 2022.
Finally, the **Southern Nevada Conservancy** serves as the steward of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, offering educational programs and visitor services.
As fall approaches, these opportunities and organizations present a fantastic chance for both locals and visitors in Las Vegas to appreciate the surrounding outdoor beauty while engaging in community activities.
image source from：neon
