Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland: A Guide to Holiday Strolls and Hikes in Las Vegas
The winter season may tempt many to retreat indoors and curl up with a book by the fireplace. However, for anyone looking to stay fit during the cold months, there’s a solution right outside your front door. Amidst festive desert landscapes and vibrant light displays, holiday strolls and hikes blend fitness with fun effortlessly. Explore our top tips and recommendations in Las Vegas!
The Right Gear for Holiday Strolls and Hikes
When venturing outdoors for a winter walk, having the right gear is imperative to stay safe and warm. Start from the ground up with sturdy, insulated shoes that provide warmth and traction on ice. Hiking boots or winter running shoes are ideal. Pair with thick thermal socks for a cozy and comforable fit.
Layering is also important in retaining heat during your holiday strolls or hike. Begin with a moisture-wicking base layer, followed by an insulating mid-layer. Complete your ensemble with a water and windproof outer shell, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the cold. Don’t forget to don a hat and gloves to safeguard from frosty winds, especially if you’re hiking in areas like Red Rock Canyon.
High-visibility clothing ensures you remain seen at dusk. For particularly chilly days, consider a neck gaiter or scarf to shield your face. Lastly, invest in quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of the winter sun.
Staying Safe Outdoors
A safe winter walking experience involves a thoughtful approach to unique challenges posed by colder weather. First and foremost, take shorter steps and walk at a slower pace to maintain balance, especially when encountering ice. If you’re walking in the desert, stay on well-maintained paths and sidewalks, avoiding shortcuts.
Keep an eye on the forecast. In case of severe conditions, think about rescheduling or opting for our indoor track at LVAC. Stay connected by informing someone about your walking plans and carrying a charged phone in case of emergencies.
When embarking on an extended walk or navigating unfamiliar terrain, consider using the buddy system. Sharing your walk with a friend or family member doubles the joy and safety. If you decide to walk solo, always make sure to inform someone you trust of your location.
Local Walking Destinations
“Ethel M Chocolates Annual Holiday Cactus Garden” by ShardsOfBlue is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Ethel M Chocolate Factory Holiday Cactus Garden
Difficultly Level: ★☆☆☆☆
✔ Suitable for kids
✔ Suitable for seniors
Nowhere else hosts a dazzling cactus garden quite like Las Vegas! Walk over three acres of paved trails and through desert landscaping filled with amazing 3-D lights for free. Santa is available for weekend photos, so bring the entire family for a beautiful stroll for all ages. Tours of the chocolate factory are also available, and the gift shop is full of freshly made local chocolate delicacies.
“Magical Forest at Opportunity Village, Las Vegas” by InSapphoWeTrust is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Magical Forest at Opportunity Village
Difficultly Level: ★☆☆☆☆
✔ Suitable for kids
✔ Suitable for seniors, wheelchair accessible
For years, Opportunity Village has been one of Vegas’ top holiday destinations. It’s easy to see why!
A passenger train, carousel, games, and tasty treats make it a holiday paradise! Enjoy a hot chocolate or funnel cake while you walk through millions of lights and holiday displays. Opportunity Village’s proceeds go toward helping over 3,000 people with disabilities in the Vegas valley.
“Enchant Christmas @ Nats Park DC” by blakespot is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Enchant Christmas
Difficultly Level: ★★☆☆☆
✔ Suitable for kids
✔ Suitable for seniors, wheelchair accessible (ice skating wheelchairs available)
Head down to the Las Vegas Ballpark for Enchant Christmas! It boasts the world’s biggest Christmas maze, an ice skating trail, Santa photos, and a festive market! Make your visit even more memorable by attending their unique events, such as Ladies or College Night.
“Sloan Canyon NCA” by mypubliclands is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Sloan Canyon
Difficultly Level: ★★★☆☆
✔ Suitable for kids
✖ May not be suitable for seniors
Hikers, this one’s for you. This moderate 7-mile loop is perfect for holiday strolls and hikes. Dress warmly for the wind chill and prepare to see one of the most significant Petroglyph sites in Southern Nevada. The trailhead is just a 30-minute walk away from over 300 rock art panels dating back to the Archaic period.
“#hiking #nevada #fitness” by Bautz Adventure is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Goldstrike Hot Springs
Difficultly Level: ★★★★★
✖ Not suitable for kids
✖ Not suitable for seniors
For anyone up for a challenge, the Goldstrike Hot Springs trail might be the ultimate winter hike in Nevada. Prepare for a 6-mile hike with obstacles like rock scrambling and climbing with the assistance of fixed ropes. Don’t forget your bathing suit and towel! The hot springs at the trail’s end can’t be beat in the chill of the winter season. Note that this trail is not a loop; you must climb back down the way you came. Please check local weather conditions before departing, as this canyon is subject to flash flooding.
Header Photo by freestocks on Unsplash
