Here, at River Mountain Park, history whispers on the wind. The River Mountain Trail is often mistaken for the River Mountains Loop Trail. Both trails reside within the River Mountains. The original River Mountain Trail has a rich story.
Picture this. It was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1935 and 1937. This was during the intense construction period of Hoover Dam. The trailhead sits just downhill from Nevada Highway, past the National Park Service warehouse.
Boulder City, the National Parks Service, and the University of Nevada Las Vegas collaborated. They revived this trail leading to the summit of Red Mountain. The trail’s construction was entirely manual. The extensive rock-work showcases a trademark style of the CCC. You will notice this as you ascend Red Mountain.
This trail is not a loop. It stretches three miles in one direction, creating a six-mile round trip. Plan for about three to five hours to complete the hike and fully enjoy the views. Prepare for an elevation change. You’ll ascend from 2415 feet to 3600 feet. The Park Service classifies this hike as moderately strenuous.
The River Mountains Loop Trail was completed through Boulder City in late 2009 or early 2010. This marked a change. This trailhead became a shared starting point for both trails. As of now, a specific map or kiosk for the loop trail isn’t installed. But the trailhead is located at Mile Marker 30.
Keep in mind that this trailhead is primitive. There are no water or restroom facilities available.
The River Mountains themselves define the landscape. They demarcate the Las Vegas Watershed from the Lake Mead Watershed. The highest point in the River Mountains reaches an elevation of 3,159 feet.
The River Mountains Loop Trail stretches 34 miles. It encircles Nevada’s beautiful River Mountains near Lake Mead, Henderson, and Boulder City.
The River Mountains Loop Trail represents a dream realized. It was the result of combined efforts. Many citizens and organizations were involved.
The new website enhances the experience. It offers maps and trailhead information. Photos capture the trail’s essence. They tell the story of adventures along the River Mountains Loop Trail. So happy trails to you all.
Consider the geology of the River Mountains. Volcanoes? This might surprise those unfamiliar with the area. The Mojave Desert is home to the desert tortoise. It’s listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.
As you explore River Mountain Park, remember the hands that shaped these trails. The visionaries who dreamed of this loop. May your adventures here be filled with wonder.