Private Valley of Fire Tour from Las Vegas — Fire Wave, Elephant Rock & Petroglyphs
Escape the Strip for six hours and stand in a canyon of red sandstone where elephant-shaped arches and 4,000-year-old petroglyphs meet sweeping, wave-like rock formations. This private Valley of Fire tour pairs short, camera-ready hikes with local history and logistical ease for a compact desert adventure.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early or late
Book morning or late-afternoon departures to avoid peak heat and get the best light for photos.
Bring ample water
Carry at least 2 liters per person; the tour provides bottled water but plan for additional personal needs.
Protect petroglyphs
Do not touch rock art and stay on marked paths — oils from hands accelerate weathering.
Wear closed shoes
Trails are sandy with loose rock; ankle-supporting hiking shoes reduce slip risk.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet viewpoints along the Scenic Loop Road for expansive painted-valley photos
- •Small alcoves near the Beehive formations that reveal layering detail often missed on main stops
Wildlife
- •desert bighorn sheep (rare sightings)
- •lizards and small desert birds like ravens and cactus wrens
Conservation Note
The park manages foot traffic with designated trails to protect fragile cryptobiotic soils and rock art; follow Leave No Trace and avoid climbing on fragile formations.
Southern Paiute peoples used the springs and canyons here for centuries; petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock record ancient lifeways.
Photographer's Notes
- • Fire Wave ridge (wide-angle panoramas)
- • Elephant Rock base for silhouette shots
- • Rainbow Vista overlook for layered-color compositions
What to Bring
Hiking shoesEssential
Grippy, closed-toe shoes handle sand, slickrock and short scrambles better than sneakers.
Sun protection (hat + sunscreen)Essential
Desert sun is intense year-round; high-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brim hat prevent sunburn and heat fatigue.
Reusable water bottle or hydration bladderEssential
Top up with provided bottled water and sip frequently to avoid dehydration in dry air.
Light daypack
Holds layers, camera gear, snacks and extra water while keeping hands free for scrambling.
Common Questions
How long is the drive from Las Vegas?
The park sits about 50 miles northeast of the Strip — expect roughly a 50–75 minute drive depending on traffic.
Is park admission included?
Yes; Valley of Fire State Park admission is covered as part of this tour.
Are the hikes difficult?
No technical climbing is required; hikes are short (1–2 miles) but surfaces are sandy and can be uneven.
Can children join?
Yes — the tour is family-friendly, but keep children hydrated and supervised around cliffs and petroglyph sites.
Are petroglyphs accessible?
Several panels (Atlatl Rock, Mouse’s Tank) are on short walks; Atlatl Rock has a metal staircase for closer viewing.
What time of year is best?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures; summer is hot and winter can be breezy but still pleasant during daylight.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Overton, Nevada
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate — able to walk 1–3 miles spread over the day on uneven, sandy terrain
Ready to Explore Overton?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now