ATV Tour of Lake Mead & Colorado River from Las Vegas — Desert Trails, Hoover Dam History and River Splash
Race out of Las Vegas into a raw desert corridor and ride two-track trails above the Colorado River. This half-day ATV tour combines miner-era history, Hoover Dam context, and a possible river splash for a brisk, hands-on view of Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear proper footwear
Closed-toe shoes with good traction are mandatory—no sandals, slides, or Crocs; you will be refused without them and no refund is given.
Bring hydration
Carry a reusable water bottle or hydration bladder—the tour provides bottled water but you’ll want easy access while riding.
Sun protection is crucial
Desert sun and wind can burn; use high-SPF sunscreen, a long-sleeve sun shirt, and wraparound sunglasses.
Follow guide instructions
ATV roads can be technical and narrow—stay in formation and obey speed and passing rules for safety.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Eldorado Canyon mine ruins (accessible viewpoints)
- •Quiet riverbank coves below the main overlook for less crowded photos
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Ravens and smaller songbirds near water
Conservation Note
Lake Mead faces long-term water-level challenges and heavy visitation; stay on designated roads, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing archaeological sites to minimize impact.
The area bears both Indigenous Mojave Paiute history and 19th–20th century mining and dam-building stories; Hoover Dam’s creation reshaped the Colorado River and the surrounding economy.
Photographer's Notes
- • Riverside ledge where the road descends to the river
- • High bench overlooks showing the river cutting through red rock
- • Along quieter canyon bends for reflections and wildlife shots
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Required by the operator and provides traction for both riding and short walks on rocky ground.
Hydration bladder or refillable bottleEssential
Keeps water accessible during dusty drives and ensures you stay hydrated on long stretches.
Sun-protection clothingEssential
Lightweight long sleeves and a wide-brim hat for breaks reduce sunburn and heat load.
Polarized sunglasses
Cuts glare off river and rock surfaces and protects eyes from wind-blown dust.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The total door-to-door duration is about 6–7 hours, with roughly three hours of driving to and through Lake Mead areas and time for stops and lunch.
Can I drive an ATV?
Yes—drivers must be at least 18 with photo ID; riders aged 6–17 can ride as passengers in the 6-seater UTV.
What footwear is allowed?
Closed-toe shoes with traction (work boots or sturdy sneakers) are mandatory; you will be refused without them and no refunds are issued.
Is swimming included?
In summer the itinerary often includes a supervised splash or shallow wade at the Colorado River; bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to get wet.
Are helmets and safety gear provided?
Yes—helmets, goggles and gloves are included; the operator enforces helmet rules strictly for safety and fit.
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final according to the operator; refunds are not provided for cancellations, and the operator may cancel for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Las Vegas, Nevada
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to mount and steer an ATV for several hours, handle short hikes and brief swimming or wading.
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