OVERTON, Nev. – Valley of Fire State Park is offering a wide variety of special events and guided hikes in April. Temperatures in April are generally quite comfortable and many of the desert plants are in bloom, adding vibrant splashes of color to the landscape. Come see why many people consider April to be the best month of the year to visit Valley of Fire. April 4: “Slots of Fun” Guided Hike The “Slots of Fun” loop is a 5-mile off-trail hike for experienced hikers. Various sections of the trail require some body strength for climbing/shimmying up into multiple slot canyons. The hike crosses a fairly steep slick-rock descent and a large sand dune. This hike, with approximately 1,200-feet of elevation gain, will be led by local hiking enthusiast who created this off-trail route. Those wishing to participate must pre-register by emailing: vofinterpranger@mvdsl.com. Please include the name of each participant in your party. This hike is limited to the first 20 registered participants.
April 4: Wildflower Hike Join park staff for a short guided hike and observe the wildflowers that bloom this time of the year. The hike leader will identify the various wildflowers visible along this approximately one-mile hike.
April 5: A Visit from the Easter Bunny The Easter Bunny will be hopping around to various locations (Arch Rock Campground, Atlatl Rock Campground, Atlatl Rock picnic area, Group Use Campground, Seven Sisters, Mouse’s Tank picnic area, and the visitor center) throughout Valley of Fire on Easter morning and handing out treats. Children will also be able to have their picture taken with this friendly fellow.
April 18: “Make Your Own Petroglyphs” Children’s Activity One of the most well-known attractions at Valley of Fire State Park is the Native American petroglyphs found along Mouse’s Tank Trail, which depict a wide variety of shapes and figures that date back thousands of years. Children of all ages are welcome to join park staff at the Mouse’s Tank picnic area to learn how to draw their own “petroglyphs.” All necessary craft supplies will be provided. NOTE: During this activity, children will be carving petroglyphs into faux “rocks” made with arts and crafts materials. Never carve, scratch, or in any other way deface any rock in the park.
April 18: Wildflower Hike Join park staff for a short guided hike and observe the wildflowers that bloom this time of the year. The hike leader will identify the various wildflowers visible along this approximately one-mile hike.
April 19: Petrified Logs Guided Hike This approximately ¾-mile hike offers participants the unique opportunity to visit a restricted area consisting of a vast amount of petrified wood. Participants are led by a ranger to impressive collections of petrified wood. Topics such as what kind of trees the petrified wood is believed to have been from and the petrification process will be discussed.
April 19: Atlatl Demonstration The Atlatl, a predecessor of the bow and arrow, was used thousands of years ago by Anasazi hunters at Valley of Fire as both a big game hunting tool and weapon. Learn about this ancient spear-throwing tool, its history in the Southwest and how exactly it was used. A demonstration is included and participants can try throwing atlatls on their own.
April 25: Guided Petroglyph Hike Tour Mouse’s Tank Trail and observe more than 800 petroglyphs located along this ¾-mile roundtrip hike. Topics covered during the hike will include the processes commonly used for dating and interpreting petroglyphs, and also what is known about the peoples who created this ancient rock art.
April 26: Fire Wave Trail Guided Hike Take a guided hike on what is perhaps Valley of Fire’s most popular hiking trail, leading to a rock formation known as the “Fire Wave.” During this 1.5-mile roundtrip hike a ranger will provide information about the geology of the area, and the plants and wildlife that call this region home.
April 26: “Introduction to Valley of Fire” Indoor Presentation Stop by the Visitor Center for an indoor PowerPoint presentation that will provide a general overview of the park’s geologic history, human history, flora and fauna.
All events are open to the public and free of charge; however, there is an entrance fee into the park of $10 per vehicle. Nevada residents receive a $2 discount. Program schedules are subject to change due to weather and staffing. When going on any hike, please be sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear. Valley of Fire State Park is located approximately 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas via Interstate 15, Exit 75, at 29450 Valley of Fire Road, Overton, NV 89040.
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