
Bootleg Canyon Trails
A premier desert playground for mountain bikers, hikers, and off-roaders, offering diverse trails and stunning Nevada landscapes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal temperatures for riding

Bootleg Canyon Trails
Best Time
Ideal temperatures for riding

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier desert playground for mountain bikers, hikers, and off-roaders, offering diverse trails and stunning Nevada landscapes.
"This is one of the best trailheads in the greater Las Vegas area and I highly recommend checking it out with your mountain bike!"

Weekend Shuttle Service
Take advantage of weekend shuttle services for efficient access to trails. :bus:
Carry Plenty of Water
The desert heat can be intense; always bring more water than you think you'll need. :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Diva Trail
Bootleg Canyon
A renowned downhill trail offering a thrilling ride with challenging features.

Boy Scout Trail
Bootleg Canyon
A beginner-intermediate blue trail, perfect for those looking for a scenic and manageable ride.

Free Ride Park
Bootleg Canyon
Offers a variety of 'choose your own adventure' style trails for all skill levels.

Sunset Views
Various viewpoints
Experience breathtaking desert sunsets over the valley, a perfect end to a day of adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Trails
Trail Navigation & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Weekend Shuttle Service
Take advantage of weekend shuttle services for efficient access to trails.
:bus:Carry Plenty of Water
The desert heat can be intense; always bring more water than you think you'll need.
:droplet:Trail Maps are Key
While marked, a map or app helps navigate the many 'choose your own adventure' trails.
:world_map:Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of rattlesnakes, especially during warmer months.
:snake:Tips
from all over the internet
Weekend Shuttle Service
Take advantage of weekend shuttle services for efficient access to trails.
:bus:Carry Plenty of Water
The desert heat can be intense; always bring more water than you think you'll need.
:droplet:Trail Maps are Key
While marked, a map or app helps navigate the many 'choose your own adventure' trails.
:world_map:Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of rattlesnakes, especially during warmer months.
:snake:Share the Trail
Hikers and bikers share the path; be courteous and yield to faster riders.
:handshake:Kid-Friendly Options
Bootleg Canyon has trails suitable for kids, making it a great family outing.
:child:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bootleg Canyon is widely praised as a top-tier mountain biking destination with a diverse range of trails for all levels, from beginner-friendly to expert downhill runs. Visitors appreciate the free access, scenic desert views, and the 'choose your own adventure' feel of the Free Ride Park. Some caution is advised regarding trail navigation and sharing the path with fast bikers, as well as being aware of wildlife.
"This trailhead brings you to some of the better hiking/biking trails here in Boulder City. There is free parking space along with a restroom, water station, a covered pavilion area with 3 picnic tables and at least one grill. The trails vary in difficulty from sandy/soft to rocky, uneven surfaces and all the trails are very well marked. Would advise prior planning on what trails to use before setting out unless you are familiar with the area. No matter what trail you choose, you will always be able to enjoy the beautiful views you will have of the valley below. Word of caution for hikers/walkers, be aware the trails are used by bikers that sometimes depending on the location of the trail, can be moving very fast, so make sure to share the path and move to the side to let them by."
Thomas B
"Love here nice place to collect rocks, becareful with rattlesnakes. Is there home."
Marcello Costa
"This is one of the best trailheads in the greater Las Vegas area and I highly recommend checking it out with your mountain bike!
It is pretty rocky but some of the trails are not bad compared to other areas.
The free ride park is definitely a highlight and has lots of choose your own adventure style trails."
Casey Nova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bootleg Canyon Trails are located in Boulder City, Nevada, about a 30-45 minute drive south of the Las Vegas Strip. Take US-93 S and follow signs for Boulder City. The trailhead is well-marked and offers free parking.
Public transportation options directly to Bootleg Canyon are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the trails. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.
While technically possible, biking from Las Vegas to Bootleg Canyon is a very long and strenuous ride due to the distance and desert terrain. It's generally recommended to drive or use a shuttle service.
The trailhead offers ample free parking, a restroom, and a water station, making it convenient for visitors.
Yes, Bootleg Canyon is a popular spot for off-roading in addition to mountain biking and hiking, with various dirt roads and trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bootleg Canyon Trails are free to access, including parking. This makes it a very budget-friendly outdoor adventure.
Bootleg Canyon is generally accessible from dawn to dusk. There are no official operating hours, but it's best to plan your visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
No permit is required for recreational use of the trails at Bootleg Canyon. Enjoy the free access to this extensive trail system.
While generally open, be aware of potential closures due to weather conditions or organized events. It's always a good idea to check local advisories if possible.
While official guided tours might not be readily advertised, local bike shops or guides in the Las Vegas area may offer services for Bootleg Canyon.
🎫 🚵 Onsite Experience
Bootleg Canyon boasts a diverse range of trails, from beginner-friendly blue runs like 'Boy Scout' to challenging double-black diamond downhill courses like 'Diva'. There's a 'choose your own adventure' feel to many sections.
Yes, shuttle service is available on weekends, making it easier to access the higher trails without pedaling. This is a popular option for downhill riders.
While trails are marked, using a trail map app like Trailforks or having a downloaded map is highly recommended due to the extensive network and 'choose your own adventure' style of some areas.
Yes, Bootleg Canyon offers trails suitable for hiking and walking, but hikers should be aware of and yield to faster-moving mountain bikers.
The trailhead provides free parking, restrooms, a water station, a covered pavilion with picnic tables, and a grill.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services directly at Bootleg Canyon. You'll need to bring your own snacks and drinks or plan to eat in Boulder City or Las Vegas.
Boulder City offers a charming downtown area with various restaurants, cafes, and diners. It's a great place to grab a meal before or after your outdoor adventure.
Yes, the trailhead has a covered pavilion with picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch.
After a strenuous ride, many visitors opt for hearty meals. Boulder City has options ranging from casual burgers to more sit-down dining experiences.
Yes, Boulder City has grocery stores where you can stock up on snacks, water, and picnic supplies before heading to the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic overlooks offering panoramic views of the valley, especially during sunrise or sunset. The unique trail features also make for dynamic action shots.
While drone photography can capture stunning aerial views, be aware of any local regulations regarding drone usage in public recreational areas.
Action shots of mountain biking, landscape photography of the desert scenery, and wildlife photography (watch for snakes!) are popular.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh due to the desert sun.
Trails with dramatic drops, berms, and natural features like 'Diva' offer exciting photo opportunities for action shots. Overlooks provide scenic vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. Ensure children are supervised and understand trail etiquette, especially regarding yielding to faster riders. The sense of accomplishment from navigating the trails and the beautiful desert scenery make Bootleg Canyon a memorable family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
While shuttle services on weekends have a cost, they can be a worthwhile investment for maximizing downhill riding time. However, many visitors find the climbs manageable and enjoy the overall experience without needing the shuttle. Bootleg Canyon offers a high-value outdoor experience without significant financial outlay, especially if you visit during the week.
🚵♀️ Experienced Riders
Consider utilizing the weekend shuttle service to hit as many downhill runs as possible. For those seeking an extra challenge, explore the double-black diamond trails and the 'choose your own adventure' sections. Bootleg Canyon is known for its challenging terrain that can humble even experienced riders, so be prepared for a demanding but rewarding ride.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mountain Biking Paradise
For those looking to maximize their riding time, shuttle services are available on weekends, eliminating the need for strenuous climbs and allowing for more downhill runs. This is a significant draw for gravity-focused riders. However, even without a shuttle, the climbs are manageable, and the descent rewards are well worth the effort. The trails are generally well-marked, but the sheer number of options means a map or app is a wise companion for exploration.
Beyond the technical aspects, the scenic beauty of Bootleg Canyon adds to the experience. Riders can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape and the valley below, especially during sunrise and sunset. It's a place where the thrill of the ride meets the tranquility of nature, making it a must-visit for any biking enthusiast.
Beyond the Bike: Hiking and Off-Roading
For off-road enthusiasts, Bootleg Canyon provides a playground of dirt roads and trails suitable for ATVs and other off-road vehicles. The varied terrain ensures an exciting experience for those looking to explore the area with motorized transport. It’s important for all users, whether on bikes, foot, or off-road vehicles, to be mindful of each other and practice trail etiquette, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Safety
Safety is paramount in this desert environment. Always carry ample water, as dehydration is a serious risk. Be aware of potential wildlife, particularly rattlesnakes, which are common in the area. Hikers should be mindful of fast-moving bikers, and all users should practice courtesy and share the trails responsibly.
The trailhead amenities are basic but functional, offering free parking, restrooms, and a water station. While there are no food services on-site, the nearby town of Boulder City provides dining options. Bringing your own snacks and picnic supplies is recommended for a full day of exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit