Hoover Dam & Lake Mead Tour

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign - The famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign is a fantastic spot for a memorable photo.

Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum - This free museum is easy to explore and filled with exhibits comparable to those at Hoover Dam. Since the workers who constructed Hoover Dam resided in Boulder City, where the dam is officially located, the museum offers a rich history. Open daily, year-round, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Hemenway Park - This scenic public park, with its lush grass overlooking Lake Mead, is often visited by wild bighorn sheep descending from the mountains. It’s definitely worth a visit for the stunning views and wildlife encounters!

Hoover Dam Lookout - Experience a complete view of Hoover Dam from the Arizona side. It’s worth the drive over the rim to capture this perspective, which isn’t visible from the Nevada side.

Hoover Dam - Recognized as one of America’s greatest engineering achievements, Hoover Dam is both a historical landmark and a massive operational dam. It’s a must-see attraction. Visitors can explore the premises for free or opt for guided tours.

Parking Fee $10 (with free parking options available)

Mike O’Callaghan - Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge - Known locally as the Hoover Dam Bypass bridge, this is one of the world’s tallest bridges. It offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Hoover Dam from nearly 900 feet above. Informative poster boards along the switchback ramps detail the bridge’s construction. It’s a worthwhile stop with no admission fee and free parking.

Lake Mead - Lakeview Overlook - Located off Rt. 172 along the Historic Railroad Trail, this overlook provides a panoramic view of Lake Mead from above the marina.

Lake Mead Visitor Center - This large visitor center combines exhibits, crafts, a gift shop, and an information center. Volunteers and park rangers are available to provide maps, hiking guidance, and recommendations.

Historic Railroad Trail - This highly recommended hike takes you through historic railroad tunnels used during Hoover Dam’s construction. The trail is easy and flat but long, stretching 7.5 miles round trip to Hoover Dam. It’s worth hiking at least 2 miles round trip to experience the first few tunnels. Avoid hiking during hot, sunny days from May through September, except in the early morning before 10 a.m. Trailheads are located at the Visitor Center and an adjacent parking lot.

Boulder Beach - Boulder Beach offers a mile of shoreline along Lake Mead. Visitors can swim, paddleboard, kayak, canoe, sail, or simply enjoy the lake and mountain views while collecting shells.

Sunset View Scenic Overlook - As you travel along Lakeshore Road, take in the beauty of Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Head to Sunset Overlook to fully appreciate the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

33 Hole Overlook - This moderate hike includes a challenging scramble at the start to descend into the canyon. It’s a 2.2-mile round trip, showcasing dramatic, winding canyons below Lake Mead’s high water line. Owls occasionally roost in the slot canyon. Follow signs for 33 Hole Overlook off Lakeshore Road to reach the trailhead, located in the first parking lot on the left. The unmarked trailhead for Owl Canyon is next to the second picnic shelter. Even if not hiking, stop at this overlook for the view, then continue to 33 Hole Overlook for another beautiful vista.

Northshore Road - This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of volcanic lava-topped and red rock mountains, along with stunning desert landscapes. Drive a portion of this road if time permits.

Little White Wedding Chapel - A fun and iconic sight in Vegas! The famous Little White Chapel, known for celebrity elopements, is located along the renowned Las Vegas Boulevard, minutes from the Stratosphere. It’s a fascinating piece of Downtown Vegas history. Parking is free, and visitors can peek inside during open hours at no charge.

The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod - The Strat Observation Tower is consistently voted “Best Place to View the City.” Standing at 1,149 feet, it offers expansive 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Strip and valley from both indoor and outdoor observation decks.

Red Rock Canyon Tour

Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center - The Visitor Center is accessible only at the start of the Scenic Drive, as the loop is one-way. It features restrooms with running water, a water filling station, an Information Booth with trail maps, a Gift Shop, and outdoor exhibits worth exploring. Visitors can also see live desert tortoises.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area - The Scenic Drive is the best way to experience Red Rock Canyon, including the Visitor Center. Reservations are often required for the Scenic Drive.

Calico 1 - It’s hard to resist stopping at Calico Hills to explore the vivid red rock. Visitors can park, take in the breathtaking view, and snap photos. The moderate trail runs 2-6 miles from various start/end points, offering a taste of the stunning rock formations.

Calico Hills - Enjoy the view from this vantage point and capture more photos of the intricate rock formations. If parking is available, visitors can hike part of the Calico Hills trail from here, offering different perspectives of the red rocks.

Sandstone Quarry Overlook - The most popular hiking trail in Red Rock Canyon starts here, at the site of an old quarry. Visitors can see mountain sandstone cuts and remaining slabs. Rock climbers can be spotted high above. The stop is popular as the starting point of the Calico Tanks Trail. Parking may require patience, but it’s worth it for the magnificent views.

High Point Overlook - Park and enjoy the view from this spot along the Scenic Drive.

White Rock Trailhead - This overlook offers sweeping views of Red Rock Canyon from its highest elevation point at 4,771 feet above sea level. Visitors can immerse themselves in the view by turning full-circle to see the surrounding mountain majesty.

Willow Spring - A quick turn off the Scenic Drive leads to Willow Spring, a must-see location. Two recommended hikes start from this picturesque picnic area surrounded by mountains. The Petroglyph Wall Trail is a short, easy 0.15-mile hike to a cliffside with ancient art dating back over 800 years, taking about 30 minutes round trip. The Willow Springs Loop is another easy trail (1.5 miles round-trip) that runs parallel to the parking lot, starting from the picnic tables. Bighorn sheep often watch from the mountain ledges above, blending in with the scenery. The trail also passes by the largest ancient agave roasting pits. Visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch with an incredible view.

Lost Creek Canyon - Located near Willow Spring, this area offers mountain views and opportunities to spot bighorn sheep. The Children’s Discovery Trail is a popular, easy hike with rocky terrain, a boardwalk, and a hidden seasonal waterfall flowing between December and April. The area features diverse desert plant life.

Ice Box Canyon - Ice Box Canyon is popular for birding and advanced hikers. The trailhead is challenging and strenuous, but the parking lot offers scenic views and photo opportunities.

Red Rock Canyon Overlook - This serene overlook invites visitors to relax and enjoy nature. Breathe in the fresh air and listen to the wind and unique birds, like the western tanager, chirping in the Joshua Trees.

Pine Creek Canyon - Stop here for views of the open desert and monolithic canyon walls, along with diverse plant life. Later in the day, this side of the Scenic Drive is silhouetted by the sun behind the mountains. A moderate hike leads past an old homestead site and into a meadow.

Oak Creek Canyon - A short gravel road leads to Oak Creek Canyon, accessible by regular cars if driven slowly. Mule deer often roam the area, sometimes running past cars. The view is stunning where the canyon cuts into the Red Rock Escarpment, and it’s a short detour off the Scenic Drive.

Red Rock Canyon Overlook - Arguably the best overlook in Red Rock Canyon, visitors can walk the paved trail starting at the helipad at the parking lot’s far end. The trail passes Joshua Trees to benches at the overlook’s tip, offering views of the giant mountains along the Scenic loop. Visitors can enjoy a picnic with a view and take selfies with the backdrop.

Red Spring Picnic Area - Another spot for a picnic with a breathtaking view.

Death Valley

Journigan’s Mill - The first stop on Emigrant Canyon Rd, this optional detour toward the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns features remnants of an early 20th-century processing plant. Photographers and history enthusiasts may find the foundations, empty tanks, and relics intriguing.

Wildrose Campground - The second stop on Emigrant Canyon Rd, this former Civilian Conservation Corps campground is a great place to stretch your legs on the way to the charcoal kilns. Visitors can explore the remaining campground buildings located right off the road.

Charcoal Kilns - Ten unique, beehive-shaped charcoal kilns are lined up in a row high in the Panamint Range. Visitors can step inside and may still catch a hint of charcoal scent.

Stovepipe Wells Village - For meals or gasoline within the park, Stovepipe Wells is recommended. This wayside offers visitor services and accommodations.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes - The only sand dunes on the tour! Visitors can view the dunes from the parking lot or explore them on foot, wandering among the mesquite trees for social media-worthy photos. This spot is ideal for sunsets and stargazing.

Devils Cornfield - Near the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, this peculiar patch of Arrowweed resembles corn bunches in a field. While there’s not much to see, a small parking area allows visitors to safely park and take a closer look.

Salt Creek Interpretive Trail - A 0.5-mile boardwalk runs along the Salt Creek wetland, a vital watering hole for wildlife and home to the endangered Salt Creek Pupfish. The easy trail is accessible via a dirt road.

Harmony Borax Works - Explore the remnants of Death Valley’s earliest mining operation. Placards along the short path explain the various buildings and mechanisms used to process borax. Visitors can also see one of the wagons pulled by the famous 20-mule teams.

Furnace Creek Visitor Center - A must-visit for information, flush toilets, a water refill station, and a museum with excellent displays on Death Valley’s natural and human history.

The Ranch at Death Valley - Furnace Creek is the only place to dine and refuel within the park. Although prices are higher, visitors will find an ice cream parlor, buffet-style restaurant, and Wild West-themed saloon. The General Store offers souvenirs and a small grocery section. The Borax Museum provides insights into the area’s mining history.

Devil’s Golf Course - Experience the otherworldly shapes of Death Valley’s salt flat, accessible via a short dirt road from Badwater Road. There’s no trail, so sturdy shoes are recommended for exploring the ‘golf course.’ The salt can be sharp!

Badwater Basin - The lowest point in North America and a highlight of any Death Valley trip. A boardwalk by the parking lot invites visitors to wander into the valley on the Badwater Basin trail. The trail extends about 1 mile into the interior of Death Valley’s salt flats, making it a 2-mile round trip to reach the cool geometric salt shapes.

Natural Bridge Trail - This flat but rocky trail leads to a natural bridge rock formation. It’s about a 1-mile round trip from the parking lot to the bridge and back.

Artist’s Drive - This one-way road ascends toward the Black Mountains into a twisty canyon. The drive is enjoyable, navigating through a tight desert landscape. The highlight is Artists Palette, where minerals create a colorful cliff. Visitors can explore on foot for a closer look.

Golden Canyon - A popular hike in the park, this trail takes hikers through a barren canyon. It’s about 3 miles (5 kilometers) round trip to the Red Cathedral cliff formation.

Zabriskie Point - One of the park’s most iconic views, overlooking rock formations Red Cathedral and Manly Beacon. This spot is noted for its film history and its role as the album cover for U2’s Joshua Tree. The walk from the parking lot to the overlook is short, paved, but steep.

Twenty Mule Team Canyon - Similar to Mustard Canyon, this dirt road adventure winds through a tightly curving canyon. There’s no specific stop, but it’s a 15-minute detour from the main tour route. Before driving, check with the park for current road conditions. Normally, the dirt road is well-maintained but bumpy, not recommended for low-clearance vehicles.

Dante’s View - A breathtaking sight, ascending over 5,000 feet to this overlook directly above Badwater Basin. From here, visitors can see North America’s lowest point with the dramatic Panamint Range looming on the opposite side of the valley. On clear days, the Sierra Nevada, including Mt. Whitney—the highest point in the lower 48 states—is visible. This is a popular spot for sunsets and stargazing.

• Tours NEVER expire
• Offline Audio Guided Tour with hours of narration, stories, and music
• Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
• Tour at your convenience - download and select your preferred day
• Includes tour highlights with activity and restaurant recommendations
• Turn-by-turn GPS navigation
• Explore at your own pace - choose desired stops
• Automatic audio narration as you drive

• Private transportation
• Meals and Refreshment
• Parking and Attraction Entrance Fees

Experience the best of both worlds with our Las Vegas Tour of Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon.

Start your journey by exploring the engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam, learning about its history and witnessing the incredible views of the Colorado River.

Then, escape the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon, hiking through stunning rock formations and enjoying panoramic vistas of the Mojave Desert.

Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating stories and insights along the way, making this tour both educational and unforgettable.

With convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, our Las Vegas Tour of Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon is the perfect way to discover the best of Las Vegas and its surrounding natural wonders.

Book your tour today and make unforgettable memories at these iconic American landmarks.

Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.

• Red Rock Starting Point: • This tour begins 10 miles west of Downtown Las Vegas along W. Charleston Blvd./Rt.159 and ends in the same place, making it a ‘loop’ tour.
• Hoover Dam Starting Point: • The tour begins along Las Vegas Boulevard near Mandalay Bay.
• Death Valley Starting Point: • The tour starts from two different entrances, the east entrance by Death Valley Junction, and the West Entrance near Panamint Springs.
• Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
• Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
• Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
• Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
• Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
• The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
• What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.