Prospect Trail Out-and-Back

The longest and most remote trail in Valley of Fire State Park.

Hiking Difficult

Distance: 14 km
Ascent: 293 m
Descent: 293 m
Duration: 3-4 hrs

Low Point: 579 m
High Point: 718 m
Gradient: 4˚

The Prospect Trail in Valley of Fire State Park is a hike that will take you on a journey through a spectacular array of colors, shapes, and wildlife in the desert. This 8.6-mile round-trip trail spans much of the park from near the west entrance to the White Domes Loop at the end of the Mouse's Tank Scenic Drive. You can also hike it one way if you arrange a shuttle or a pick-up at either end.

Photo from Prospect Trail Out-and-Back — Photo: Shutterstock

Description

The Prospect Trail takes you through a range of sandstone colors and shapes, from the red Aztec sandstone formations to the white silica domes to the rainbow-colored rocks. You will also see some interesting features, such as arches, alcoves, and boulders. Along the way, you might encounter some desert animals, such as lizards, chuckwallas, and bighorn sheep. The trail is lightly used and remote, so you will have a chance to enjoy the solitude and wilderness of this area.

The trail is not well-marked or maintained, as it follows mostly washes and old dirt roads. You will need to pay attention to the occasional poles and cairns that indicate the trail direction, and use your navigation skills and common sense. The trail is mostly flat or gently sloping, but there are some sections that require easy to moderate scrambling over rocks and sand.

The Prospect Trail is a must-do for anyone who wants to experience the amazing diversity and beauty of Valley of Fire State Park.

Sources: 7 Top-Rated Hiking Trails in Valley of Fire State Park. https://www.planetware.com/nevada/top-rated-hiking-trails-in-valley-of-fire-state-park-us-nv-15.htm. Hike the Prospect Trail in the Valley of Fire, Clark County, Nevada. https://www.theoutbound.com/nevada/hiking/hike-the-prospect-trail-in-the-valley-of-fire. Prospect Trail, Valley of Fire, Nevada | Las Vegas Area Trails. https://lasvegasareatrails.com/prospect-trail-in-valley-of-fire-state-park-nevada/. Conversation with Bing Chat

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.