Mount Wilson NevadaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mount Wilson, Nevada.
1. Mount Wilson Summit
BREATHTAKING PANORAMIC VIEWS
Mount Wilson Summit stands as the highest peak in the Rainbow Mountain Wilderness at 7,070 feet elevation, offering hikers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Las Vegas Valley. From this vantage point, visitors can see nearly all of the Las Vegas Valley along with other prominent Rainbow Mountains including Indecision Peak, Rainbow Mountain, Juniper Peak, and Bridge Mountain. The summit approach is challenging but rewarding, with multiple strenuous third-class routes leading to the top.
2. First Creek Canyon Trail
GATEWAY TO MOUNT WILSON
First Creek Canyon Trail serves as the primary access point for hikers attempting to reach Mount Wilson's summit. This 10.1-mile trail features an impressive 3,583-foot elevation gain, typically taking hikers about 9 hours and 44 minutes to complete. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding Rainbow Mountain Wilderness and serves as an ideal starting point for experienced hikers looking to explore the area's natural beauty.
3. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
ICONIC DESERT LANDSCAPE
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area encompasses Mount Wilson and features striking red sandstone formations set against the desert landscape. Visitors can explore the area via a 13-mile scenic drive, numerous hiking trails, and rock climbing opportunities throughout the conservation area. The visitor center offers educational exhibits about the area's geology, ecology, and cultural history.
4. Rainbow Mountain Wilderness
PROTECTED DESERT WILDERNESS
Rainbow Mountain Wilderness is a protected area west of Red Rock Canyon that includes Mount Wilson as its highest peak. The wilderness area features diverse desert ecosystems, colorful geological formations, and challenging hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can experience solitude and pristine natural landscapes while exploring this less-developed region of the Spring Mountains.
5. Mount Wilson Backcountry Byway
SCENIC DESERT DRIVE
Mount Wilson Backcountry Byway offers a 66-mile journey mostly on gravel roads through some of Nevada's most scenic desert landscapes. The route winds through an ancient volcanic caldera now forested with piñon, juniper, and aspen trees, providing stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Travelers can experience the natural beauty and geological diversity of the area from the comfort of their vehicles.
6. Bridge Mountain
DISTINCTIVE SANDSTONE FORMATION
Bridge Mountain is one of the prominent peaks visible from Mount Wilson, featuring unique sandstone formations and natural arches. Hikers can access this distinctive mountain via challenging trails that showcase the area's geological wonders and offer spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness. The peak is popular among experienced hikers and rock climbers seeking adventure in the Rainbow Mountain Wilderness.
7. Juniper Peak
MODERATE CLIMBING ADVENTURE
Juniper Peak is one of the notable mountains visible from Mount Wilson's summit, offering moderately challenging climbing routes. The peak is named for the abundant juniper trees that dot its slopes and provides hikers with excellent views of the Rainbow Mountain Wilderness. This destination is particularly popular with intermediate climbers looking to build their skills before attempting more difficult ascents in the area.
8. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
HISTORIC DESERT OASIS
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is a historic ranch located near Mount Wilson that once served as a luxury retreat for numerous celebrities including Howard Hughes and Vera Krupp. The park features a historic main house, several outbuildings, and lush meadows fed by natural springs, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, picnic areas, hiking trails, and seasonal outdoor theater performances in this desert oasis.
9. Bonnie Springs Ranch Restaurant
WESTERN-THEMED DINING EXPERIENCE
Bonnie Springs Ranch Restaurant offers visitors authentic Western-style cuisine in a historic setting near Mount Wilson. The restaurant serves hearty meals including steaks, burgers, and traditional American fare in a rustic atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Old West. After dining, guests can explore the surrounding attractions including a petting zoo and Western town replica.
10. Desert View Trading Post
LOCAL CRAFTS AND SOUVENIRS
Desert View Trading Post offers a wide selection of locally-made crafts, Native American jewelry, and unique souvenirs for visitors exploring the Mount Wilson area. The trading post features authentic southwestern merchandise, outdoor gear for hikers, and regional specialty foods that showcase the flavors of Nevada. Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable staff who provide information about the surrounding natural attractions and hiking opportunities.
11. Blue Diamond Bike Shop
PREMIER CYCLING OUTFITTER
Blue Diamond Bike Shop serves as the premier cycling outfitter for mountain bikers exploring the trails around Mount Wilson and Red Rock Canyon. The shop offers bike rentals, repairs, accessories, and expert advice on the best routes for all skill levels in the surrounding wilderness areas. Cyclists can also join guided tours that showcase the most scenic paths through the Rainbow Mountain Wilderness.
12. Red Rock Climbing Center
INDOOR CLIMBING PREPARATION
Red Rock Climbing Center provides indoor training facilities for climbers preparing to tackle the challenging routes on Mount Wilson and surrounding peaks. The center features walls with varied difficulty levels, equipment rentals, and professional instruction for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Many visitors use this facility to practice their techniques before attempting the natural sandstone formations in the Rainbow Mountain Wilderness.
13. Cottonwood Valley Trails
POPULAR MOUNTAIN BIKING NETWORK
Cottonwood Valley Trails network offers some of the best mountain biking opportunities near Mount Wilson with routes suitable for various skill levels. The trails wind through desert landscapes with stunning views of the Spring Mountains and Rainbow Mountain Wilderness. Riders can choose from loops ranging from beginner-friendly paths to technically challenging single-track adventures.
14. Mount Charleston
ALPINE ESCAPE NEARBY
Mount Charleston provides a cool alpine retreat just a short drive from Mount Wilson, reaching an elevation of 11,916 feet with temperatures typically 20-30 degrees cooler than Las Vegas. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and wildlife viewing in this diverse ecosystem that features seven ecological life zones. The area includes the charming Mount Charleston Lodge, dining options, and vacation cabins for those seeking an extended mountain getaway.
15. Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center
EDUCATIONAL DESERT SHOWCASE
Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center serves as the gateway to exploring Mount Wilson and the surrounding wilderness areas with informative exhibits about the region's geology, plants, and wildlife. The center provides trail maps, ranger programs, and essential information for safely navigating the challenging terrain of the Rainbow Mountain Wilderness. Visitors can also enjoy a desert tortoise habitat, native plant garden, and gift shop featuring educational materials and locally-made items.