Ultimate guide to 1 day in Valley of Fire

Why you should stop in Valley of Fire on your road trip

This was our first stop from Las Vegas to Utah on our 7 day road trip. Located just 45 minutes and 45 miles, outside of Vegas, it is also the perfect day trip. This is the perfect location to get out and stretch those legs and take in the amazing lands. You will find fascinating red rock formations, petroglyphs and cute desert big horn sheep.

For thousands of years natives used these lands for farming, hunting and ceremonies. This park was named the Valley of Fire in the 1930’s and is Nevada’s first and largest park.

Important Things to Consider Before Visiting Valley of Fire

Valley of Fire Entrance fees can be purchased at the East or West gates. it is $10 for Nevada residents or $15 for out of state. You should note that even if you arrive before or after the gate attendants, you will still need to pay at the kiosk. This is a State park and the annual passes will not work here. You will be given a map and complete guide to the park. There are a few not on the map so keep your eye out.

*update* starting in 2023 Nevada will be adding the reservation system into their parks.

Before you plan your visit to the park here are some things to keep in mind. Weather! It is so hot here in the summer. We visited in the first week of June and were wondering around in 98 – 101 degree weather with beaming sun.

Summer (June to September) – Not a great time to visit but still doable. The trails here are short and right from the road. Temperatures here during this time will be in the high 90’s up to over 110 degrees. You will need to make sure you bring lots of water and put on the sunscreen.

Fall (September to November) and Spring (March to May) – These are the more popular months with warm weather about 75 degrees. However this is the busier times with larger crowds. So prepare yourself to share the trails and observation areas with lots of people.

Winter (December to April) – A good time to visit with temps around 64 degrees. You will have shorter days so if you are planning to see the whole park make sure to give yourself a couple days here.

What to bring with you in Valley of Fire

WATER!!!! Make sure you bring lots of water if you are visiting during the hotter months. There is a camp area here where you can refill your bottles.

Snacks – Always good to bring a light lunch. There are day use areas but if you are planning to see as any places as possible in one day, pack sandwiches.

Sun protection is a must! Bring sunscreen and a hat. Light long clothing would be great too if you plan on taking a long hike.

A map of the park is given to you at the entrance. With that said you should download an offline map before you enter. A lot of the park doesn’t have cell signal.

Top places to See in Valley of Fire with only 1 day

1. 3 Fins Arches

This will be the first stop if you are coming in from the west entrance. Once you enter the park it will be the first road on your left. Once you turn you will see the pullover area on your right. We didn’t make it to the arches but even taking a few minute walk up the hill you will get amazing views.

2. Arch Rock

Arch Rock is a minute drive around the corner from 3 Fins on the right hand side. Now this is not Arches National Park arch but it is a beauty to see. Do not climb on this rock as it is small and it is against the park rules *take pictures, don’t leave your footprints*

If you look to the field to the left there is a big rock mound here. If you are lucky you may see some Desert Bighorn Sheep like we did. I would suggest not getting too close, give them their space and use your zoom.

3. Atlatl Rock

It is the spot to stop and have a look at some amazing petroglyphs. For me the was the one place I had to visit. There is a large amount of stairs to take up. Tip – when you park your car the stairs to the left take you up close to them, but if you also look to the right, half way up the rock cliff you will see more, lots more!!

4. Petrified logs

Petrified Logs Loop is evidence of the forested past, which includes logs that have turned to stone. Very fascinating to see and is right at the end of the road.

5. Balancing Rock

Balancing Rock trail is located on White Domes road just on the right hand side as you turn down.

6. Mouse’s tank

This is another spot to see the amazing petroglyphs. This is a .75 mile trail

7. Fire Wave and Seven Wonders

These are at the end of this road. Here you can find the wave and pink canyon. A swirl of colors in the rock, stunning. This is a longer hike of 1.5 miles and is closed from June 1st to September 30th due to high heat. We didn’t get to see this but I will be back for this one.

After leaving here, check out the visitors center.

8. Historic Cabins

Historic Cabins were built in 1935 and still standing strong. A great way to take a step back in history. Here you will find 3 of them built by the Civilian Conservation Corps for campers and travelers that visited the park.

9. Elephant Rock

Elephant Rock is a short walk from the parking. Head left along the trail close to the road. You will see a white street sign, look up the rockface. This is the last stop before the west entrance and your exit.

Leaving the park

You are now at the end of the park. Don’t forget to take your picture in the Elephant Rock parking lot.

For a final note I want to add to take your trash. We want our parks to stay clean and preserved! NO TAGGING. There is nothing worse than seeing mother natures glory with paint on it! Respect the land and those who work hard everyday keeping it beautiful.

FAQ

What is the address to the Valley of Fire?

The address to the Valley of Fire is 29450 Valley of Fire Hwy, Overton NV 89040

How far is the Valley of Fire from Las Vegas?

The Valley of Fire is about 53 miles to drive from Las Vegas, about 1 hour 45 minutes. This makes it a great day trip.

How long does it take to drive around the Valley of Fire Park? If you were to drive around the park and not get out it would take about 30 minutes.

How far is the Valley of Fire from Zion National Park? It is about 2 hours and 30 minutes from park to park.

What is the weather like in the Valley of Fire?

The weather in the Valley of Fire varies throughout the year. The hottest months are June, July and August and in our trip the average temperature was over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Avg Annual Temperature	69.2
Avg High Temperature	80.6
Avg Low Temperature	57.9

Can you see the whole park in one day? Yes, absolutely you can. Arrive nice and early and on a warm day not hot and you will be able to go to each stop.

Is the park open everyday? Yes the park is open from sunrise to sunset everyday of the year. The visitor center is open 364 days (not Christmas) from 9am to 4pm

Can you fly a drone in the park? No, you cannot fly in the Valley of Fire State Park. This is not permitted and you will be fined.

Can you bring your dog? Yes, it is fur baby friendly as long as your companion is on a leash that is no longer than 6 feet. You are not allowed to enter the visitor center unless it is a service pet.

Can you camp at Valley of Fire? Yes there are camping sites for a fee. It will be 20.00 per night or 30.00 with hookups.

Is Valley of fire open during covid? Yes the park is open, please follow all CDC and Park regulations