Owl Canyon Trail
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Owl Canyon Trail

4.7
·165 reviews·Boulder City, United States

Discover the unique slot canyons and rock tunnels of Owl Canyon Trail, a rewarding desert hike near Las Vegas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings

Pleasant temperatures for hiking

CrowdLow
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Owl Canyon Trail

Owl Canyon Trail

Best Time

Winter mornings

Pleasant temperatures for hiking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the unique slot canyons and rock tunnels of Owl Canyon Trail, a rewarding desert hike near Las Vegas.

4.7
(165 reviews)

"Epic water hikes 35 mins from Las Vegas! Did you know such gorgeous trails featuring water exist so close?"

Vertical photo
TIP

Go Left at the Fork

Many recommend taking the left fork to descend the scramble first, making the ascent easier on the way out. :arrow_left:

Hydrate and Protect

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sunglasses. The desert sun can be intense. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tunnels

The Tunnels

Within the canyon

Navigate through intriguing rock tunnels that add an element of adventure to your hike.

Reddit
Slot Canyon Formations

Slot Canyon Formations

Throughout the trail

Marvel at the stunning, narrow slot canyon walls carved by nature, offering unique photographic opportunities.

Reddit
Scenic Overlooks

Scenic Overlooks

Various points along the trail

Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape and Lake Mead area.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is spotty to non-existent. Download offline maps before you go to avoid getting lost, especially when navigating unmarked sections of the trail. Reddit

Footwear is Key

The trail involves walking through washes and rocky terrain. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended to prevent discomfort and potential injury. Reddit

Best Times

When
Winter mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Spring afternoons
Why
Good light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Epic water hikes 35 mins from Las Vegas 😮⬇️ Did you know such gorgeous trails featuring water (waterfalls, ponds etc) exist so close to the Las Vegas Strip?!! 🤯😍 I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it over and over: Las Vegas is such an AMAZING outdoor-adventure base! It’s insane! And these may be some of the closest to the city I’ve yet to come across! 📌 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘓𝘢𝘴 𝘝𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘵-𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴...
@mindyonthemove
5.9K likes • 158.2K views

Go Left at the Fork

Many recommend taking the left fork to descend the scramble first, making the ascent easier on the way out. Reddit :arrow_left:

Hydrate and Protect

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sunglasses. The desert sun can be intense. Reddit :droplet: :sunwithface:

Explore White Owl Canyon: A Hidden Gem for Adventure Seekers! Discover the unique beauty of White Owl Canyon, an extraordinary hiking destination located near Lake Mead. This stunning trail features winding passages, dramatic sandstone walls, and a peaceful environment perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. Plan Your Visit: • Trail Highlights: Immerse yourself in a labyrinth of sl...
exploring_las_vegas_and_beyond
266 likes • 5.6K views
Winter Hike❄️ White Owl Canyon Trail 3.4 mile loop Easy/Moderate Unmarked #thingstodoinvegas #mountains #hikes #vegas #vegashikes
_lilaluv
49 likes • 935 views

Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great outing for furry friends too! Reddit :dog:

Respect the Water

Avoid swimming in the Vegas Wash; it is not safe for recreational use. Reddit :noentrysign:

1.11.25🥾🌵White Owl Canyon Trail Beautiful morning with beautiful people. @vibegirlshikeclub never disappoints💕 Once again thank you God for blessing me to be able to enjoy your creations🤗
tymo.hu
0 likes • 663 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Go Left at the Fork

Many recommend taking the left fork to descend the scramble first, making the ascent easier on the way out. Reddit :arrow_left:

Hydrate and Protect

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sunglasses. The desert sun can be intense. Reddit :droplet: :sunwithface:

Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great outing for furry friends too! Reddit :dog:

Respect the Water

Avoid swimming in the Vegas Wash; it is not safe for recreational use. Reddit :noentrysign:

Unmarked Trails

Be prepared for unmarked sections. Downloading offline maps is crucial for navigation. Reddit :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(165 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Owl Canyon Trail for its unique slot canyon formations and intriguing rock tunnels, offering a refreshing outdoor escape near Las Vegas. While the trail is generally considered manageable, hikers note the steep initial descent and ascent, recommending sturdy footwear and plenty of water. Some find the unmarked sections challenging, emphasizing the need for offline maps.

"I listened to others and went left at the fork, please do so, if you rather descend down the scramble versus ascend.

But download the offline maps, you will lose service. It was very helpful because we got off trail and the app gave us a notice saying we were off trail.

When take a left in the fork and go through the first tunnel, you will have the ascend up a path on the right side, nothing is really marked until you get to the top. Where there are some stacked rocks.

Also the Vegas wash is not safe to swim in, so I highly recommend not touching it.

Recommend bringing some hiking boots, you will be going through a wash, so rocks will get into shoes."

Smith N

"Many scenic trail options. Beautiful area. Steep trailhead down the canyon and over a couple small hills and "keep to the left and follow the trail through the rocks to the tunnel" we were told by another hiker and it was perfect in duration and scenery. Fun hike with more beauty around every corner. Dog friendly trails. Could have spent the whole day there! Bring water, sunscreen and sunglasses and wear good hiking shoes, totally worth the steep in/out of the trail."

Natane Russell

"I really enjoyed this hike. Interesting, easy and rocky trail. Weather was perfect. A few areas where you do climb, and a few downhills but nothing crazy. Kid and dog friendly. Good parking and restrooms are available before you get going."

Jo Hernandez

What People Like

Unique slot canyons
Rock tunnels
Close to Las Vegas

What People Dislike

Steep initial climb
Unmarked sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Owl Canyon Trail is located near Lake Mead, about a 35-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip. TikTok Follow signs towards Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Parking and restrooms are available before the trailhead. Reddit

While the general area is accessible, the trail itself can be unmarked in places. Downloading offline maps is highly recommended to ensure you stay on track. Reddit

Many hikers suggest downloading an offline map app, as cell service is unreliable. Pay attention to trail markers and natural landmarks. Reddit

A common tip is to take the left fork at the initial split in the trail. This leads you through tunnels and a scramble that's easier to ascend on the way back. Reddit

Yes, Owl Canyon Trail is located near Lake Mead and is often considered a great hiking spot in the vicinity. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

As Owl Canyon Trail is often accessed near Lake Mead, check for any potential entrance fees or permits required for Lake Mead National Recreation Area, though the trail itself may not have a separate fee. Reddit

The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check official park or recreation area information for specific access times. Reddit

While the trail itself might not have a direct fee, access may be through areas that require an entrance fee, such as Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Reddit

Typically, trails like Owl Canyon do not require advance ticket booking. Entry is usually on a first-come, first-served basis. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are reported to be available before you begin your hike on the Owl Canyon Trail. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It involves a steep initial descent and ascent, with some rocky and sandy terrain. Reddit It's more than a casual walk. Reddit

Most visitors spend a couple of hours exploring the trail, allowing time to enjoy the scenery and navigate the different sections. Reddit

Wear sturdy hiking boots due to the rocky terrain. Comfortable clothing suitable for hiking is also recommended. Reddit

Yes, the trail is often described as kid-friendly, though the initial steep descent and rocky paths require supervision. Reddit

Absolutely! Leashed dogs are welcome on the Owl Canyon Trail, making it a great spot for pet owners. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The slot canyon formations, the rock tunnels, and scenic overlooks offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The morning light can be particularly beautiful. InstagramReddit

Yes, the unique geological features and expansive desert views make it a great location for landscape photography. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the slot canyons, while a standard zoom can cover the broader landscapes. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions in the tunnels. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other hikers and avoid disturbing the natural environment. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warmer glow. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Owl Canyon Trail offers an exciting adventure for families, with its unique tunnels and slot canyon formations providing a sense of exploration. Reddit While the initial steep descent and rocky terrain require careful supervision, many find it to be a kid-friendly hike. Reddit Bringing plenty of water and snacks is essential, and sturdy shoes for everyone will make the experience more comfortable. Reddit The relatively short loop makes it manageable for younger hikers, though parents should be prepared for some climbing. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Bring your furry companions along for the adventure! Owl Canyon Trail is a dog-friendly destination, allowing leashed dogs to explore the scenic paths with their owners. Reddit Ensure your dog is also equipped with appropriate footwear if they have sensitive paws, as the terrain can be rough. Reddit Always carry extra water for your pet and be mindful of other hikers and their dogs. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Owl Canyon Trail presents a unique opportunity to capture striking desert landscapes and geological formations. The slot canyons and rock tunnels offer dramatic perspectives, especially when bathed in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon. InstagramReddit Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the scale of the canyons and a tripod for sharper shots in shaded areas. Instagram Remember to be respectful of the environment and other visitors while seeking the perfect shot. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trail: Tips from Hikers

The Owl Canyon Trail is known for its unique geological features, including intriguing rock tunnels and narrow slot canyon sections. TikTokInstagram While many find the hike rewarding, navigation can be a challenge due to unmarked paths. A recurring piece of advice from hikers is to download offline maps before you depart, as cell service is unreliable in the area. Reddit This is crucial for staying on the intended route and avoiding getting lost, especially when encountering forks in the trail. Reddit

One popular strategy shared on Reddit is to take the left fork at the initial split. This path leads you through the first tunnel and involves a scramble that is generally easier to ascend on the way back to your vehicle. Reddit This approach allows for a more manageable climb out of the canyon. Remember that the trail involves a steep initial descent and ascent, so be prepared for a workout. Reddit The terrain is a mix of rocky and sandy-wash areas, making sturdy footwear essential. Reddit

What to Expect: Scenery and Safety

The scenery at Owl Canyon Trail is a major draw, offering a stark contrast to the typical Las Vegas landscape. Visitors rave about the slot canyon formations and the experience of walking through the natural rock tunnels. InstagramReddit The area provides a sense of adventure and discovery, with beautiful views around every corner. Reddit It's a great spot for those looking for outdoor activities close to the city. TikTok

When it comes to safety, hikers emphasize preparedness. Bringing ample water is non-negotiable, as the desert climate can be dehydrating. Reddit Sun protection, including sunscreen and sunglasses, is also vital. Reddit While the trail is generally considered dog-friendly, always keep your pets on a leash and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit Importantly, avoid contact with the Vegas Wash, as it is not safe for swimming or recreation. Reddit The presence of wild animals is also a possibility, so staying alert is always advised. Reddit

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