One hour off the Las Vegas Strip, to the north, is an entirely different scenery, some say a different universe! Valley of Fire State Park was Nevada’s very first state park (1935). When Hollywood needs something that looks like a distant planet, they like to come here. Star Trek has filmed here as well as countless other sci-fi shows. It has been used for other Hollywood movies including the classic western “Paint Your Wagon”.
From prehistoric creatures traveling by to the Morman pioneers passing thru, trying to find a new homestead, to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) setting up a base of operations during the Great Depression. Valley of Fire has a lot of history to explore as well as a variety of geological wonders for you to hike.
What is Valley of Fire
Valley of Fire State Park is a public recreation and nature preservation area covering nearly 46,000 acres (19,000 ha) located 16 miles (26 km) south of Overton, Nevada. The state park derives its name from red sandstone formations, the Aztec Sandstone, which formed from shifting sand dunes 150 million years ago. These features, which are the centerpiece of the park’s attractions, often appear to be on fire when reflecting the sun’s rays. It is Nevada’s oldest state park, as commemorated with Nevada Historical Marker #150. It was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1968.
Valley of Fire is located 50 miles (80 km) northeast of Las Vegas, at an elevation between 1,320–3,009 feet (402–917 m). It abuts the Lake Mead National Recreation Area on the east at the Virgin River confluence. It lies in a 4 by 6 mi (6.4 by 9.7 km) basin. (H/T Wikipedia)
Things to Know About Valley of Fire
- Public transportation does not extend to the Valley of Fire. Tour buses and commercial tours may be available from your hotel.
- Valley of Fire State Park Website
