After visitors have checked out the main Vegas hotel strip, canvassed the casinos, tried their luck at the slots, enjoyed the glitz and glamour of stunning shows, such as Cirque de Soleil, and feasted on the bountiful buffets, travelers may be craving some outdoor exercise in a quiet, refreshing slower pace. One of the many day excursions may be the perfect formula for extra relaxation. Of course, be prepared for quizzical comments from friends and family when telling them about Las Vegas' nature experiences in the land of fantastic fantasy and flashy lifestyles.
After leaving the glaring city lights, deep desert valleys, red rock canyons, rare cactus vegetation and an oasis of clear blue water can be discovered and enjoyed – all within a hour’s drive of the main Las Vegas city hub. There is a quiet, serene beauty to a desert landscape and even more so when it is adjacent to the cool, blue waters of Lake Mead.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
This is a region of spectacular, contrasting beauty. At one time it was the world’s largest artificial lake. The striking contrast of desert and water, mountains and canyons, backcountry and busy marina has opened up the region for man and nature to coexist in this 1.5 million acre protected area of the Mojave Desert. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, biking and hiking.
Lake Mead History
The reservoir man-made lake was created by the damming of the Colorado River and named after Elwood Mead, the Bureau of Reclamation commissioner at the time. In early 1900, local residents and government sought ways to harness the power of the Colorado River to allow for irrigation and industry. Thus, the idea of building a dam was formed. The Reclamation Act of 1902 heralded the construction of Boulder Dam, later to be named Hoover Dam. The water from this man-made lake is mainly from melted snow from adjoining states.
Critics may bemoan the diversion of the natural flow of the Colorado River that took place, and the huge dam created to feed the hungry thirst for water and electricity needed to help keep the Vegas strip pulsing. As a consequence, the beautiful Lake Mead National Recreation Area was created in one of the hottest, driest regions on earth that would probably have been inaccessible, deserted, desert landscape were it not for the lake. The area receives only about 6 inches of rain a year.
Lake Mead Plants & Birds
Desert prime rose, bright yellow desert sunflower, Arizona lupine, the desert chicory, white Ajo Lily or bright pink monkey flower are some of the plants for viewing. Birds include: yellow-headed blackbirds, owls, sandpipers, wrens, hummingbirds and mallards. (As recorded by the Lake Mead National Park Service)
Lake Mead Cruises
A cruise on the paddlewheel boat, Desert Princess, is a must. The serene and relaxing 90-minute voyage travels the sparkling, blue waters of scenic Lake Mead year 'round. Visitors will enjoy the stunning scenery, tasty food and guided tour while sitting on the outdoor boat deck. Guides present an extensive, informative history of the lake and Hoover Dam. The cruise goes right up to the dam. Cruise rates are $12 for children $24 for adults. Check local hotels for discount coupons on cruises.
Transportation Getting to Lake Mead
Many group bus tours go to Lake Mead and nearby Hoover Dam. Car rental is a better way to get around and also explore other nearby nature areas such as Lake Las Vegas.
Other Resources
Travel Guides such as Lonely Planet also offer great information on Las Vegas.
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