Las Vegas is an excellent outdoor destination in many ways, but recreational options for your furry friends can be harder to find.

Hiking with man’s best friend can make the desert feel a lot less lonely. Your dog must be on a leash on most hiking trails.

Here are a few recommendations to escape the noise of the city and let your dog watch it from a higher vantage point:

Lonely mountain

Lone Mountain, located at the northwest tip of Las Vegas, is a good option for moderate hikers interested in panoramic views of the city, including the Strip.

It is quite a steep incline with a maximum elevation of about 3,300 feet and a total trail length of just over 1 mile.

Exploration peak

Another popular hike with a nice viewpoint over the city is at Exploration Peak, more suitable for beginners who aren’t sure how their dog will do climbing up. It is a less intense walk of about a mile.

The tip of the mountain offers breathtaking views of Las Vegas that you and your pup won’t want to miss.

Whitney Mesa Nature Preserve

For a sure bet in the Henderson area, Whitney Mesa Nature Preserve offers a 5-mile trail that is an undisturbed gem in the middle of the suburbs.

It is a popular spot in the community for bird watching and horse riding. There are several trails you can follow as you explore the 2.5-acre nature reserve.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area trails

A classic from Las Vegas is of course the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

Pets are allowed on all hiking trails in the area, which are numerous and of varying intensity. The trails are a great option for people (and dogs) of all skill levels. The Scenic Loop in the area is always a good place to start and do a series of smaller walks.

Mount Charleston Trails

A much-needed break from the Las Vegas heat can come in the form of a trip to Mount Charleston, a higher spot with cooler temperatures. Your dog is also allowed to come along.

Although many popular trails, such as Mary Jane Falls, remain closed due to flood damage from Tropical Storm Hilary, there are plenty of options for long and short hikes.

Contact Alan Halaly at [email protected]. Follow @AlanHalaly on X.