Cool summer hikes near Las Vegas

Did you know there's a place just 35 miles from Las Vegas that's 25 to 40 degrees cooler? At Mt. Charleston, less than one hour's drive from the Strip, you can enjoy gorgeous scenery in 70-degree weather, while Vegas bakes in 110-degree heat. Mt. Charleston is home to waterfalls, snow-covered peaks (even now, in June) and, most importantly, lots of hiking trails -- which you can enjoy for free!


From the 100 foot waterfall at Big Falls to Charleston Peak (11,918 feet), there's an adventure for everyone. Below, I've selected some of Mt. Charleston's best day hikes.


Fletcher Canyon: A four mile (up and back) hike that travels through a slot canyon with 100-foot-high walls. There's currently lots of water in the canyon making for great photo opportunities and cool temperatures.


Big Falls: The hike ends at a seasonal 100 foot waterfall. Currently the water is crashing on the rock below. You will actually get wet from the mist coming off the waterfall. It's 3.5 miles (up and back) with mild scrambling to reach the waterfall.


Cathedral Rock: An easy peak that offers great views of Kyle Canyon and Mount Charleston Lodge. This 2.5 mile hike (up and back) gains 900 feet as it winds through thick groves of aspens. There's a small waterfall off to the left of the trail about halfway up.


When your hike is over, you can eat lunch or dinner at one of Mt. Charleston's two hotels: The historic Mount Charleston Lodge, which stands at 7,700 feet and features 23 log cabins and outdoor dining deck with sweeping views; and The Resort on Mount Charleston, a rustic pet-friendly hotel with a restaurant and full-service spa. Then you can head back to Vegas and relax at the Flamingo Las Vegas, rated one of the best value hotels on the Strip.


-- Branch Whitney, hikinglasvegas.com


[Photo Credit: Branch Whitney]