Everybody knows what Las Vegas Nevada
is all about. Gambling, showgirls, casinos, and neon signs are
what leap to most people’s minds when they think about this
ruthless, surreal, money-hungry city. They’re hardly wrong.
But there is more to Las Vegas than legal “sin” and
free drinks at the crap-table. Las Vegas wants the whole family’s
money, and is more than willing to drop a few theme parks amongst
the casinos to get it. And if you’re willing to tear yourself
away from the one-armed bandits and all-you-can-stomach buffets,
there are even a few outdoor adventures to be had in and around
Vegas.
There are a surprising number of place in Las Vegas Nevada to
have a roller coaster ride. Buffalo Bill’s Resort &
Casino features the tall and fast coaster known as the Desperado
as well as a free fall ride called the Turbo Drop. There are a
number of rides both large and small in the Adventure Dome at
the Circus Circus Casino, but lookout if you’re afraid of
clowns. The Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix has no coasters, but makes
up for it with 4 Go-Kart tracks and a 7,000 sq.-ft. restaurant/party
room and arcade.
Water sports and activities are only a short trip away thanks
to Lake Mead’s 110 man-made miles of water. There are ample
opportunity for beach-parties, water-skiing, wake boarding and
more at Lake Mead.
Red Rock Canyon is only 20 miles west of the Strip. This valley-like
canyon is distinctive due to the mix of red sandstone and gray
limestone on its hills and sheer cliffs, and the 3,000-foot high
Red Rock Escarpment dominating the skyline. Hiking, horseback
riding and rock-climbing are popular activities here. Riders will
enjoy the trail through the mountain along Lost Creek Canyon as
it leads to the town of Pahrump Nevada. The Spring Canyon trail
leads hikers to a picturesque desert waterfall plunging 30 feet
over the rocks to a clear pool below. Climbers can come and test
their skills on the cliffs of the colorful Calico Hills.
Most visitors to Las Vegas probably don’t expect to get
any skiing done, but the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort.
This resort is nestled in the Springfield Mountain range, only
45 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. There are 3 double-lift chairs
and 10 trails to enjoy every Thanksgiving to Easter.
