This lesser-visited gem in the Nevada State Parks jewel box boasts trails that criss-cross a trickling, trout-packed stream; romp up a flowing tributary with multiple cascade pools (including a warm-ish one at the top); along with forested campsites among river-carved canyons and stunning rock formations where you can bed down for a starlit night—serenaded by flowing water, rustling leaves, wild turkeys, and maybe even a distant bobcat or two. (7h45m/455mi)
Beaver Dam State ParkWatering Holes: Where to Dip and Sip Outside Las Vegas
Wanna beat the heat? Make a splash and raise a glass at these trip-worthy watering holes.
As the thermometer climbs in southern Nevada, the search for “cool” places to go becomes a literal one. Luckily, our state is no stranger to some seriously epic watering holes. Pristine lakes, rivers, and springs? Absolutely. But also the other kind: the types of joints we here at Travel Nevada like to call Sagebrush Saloons.
So the next time you’re rarin’ to get out of town and cool off—whether it’s with a refreshing dip or a frosty mug in a history-drenched tavern—check out this roundup of trip-worthy watering holes within easy reach of Las Vegas.
Travel Nevada Pro Tip
Before you belly up to the bar, download your free Sagebrush Saloon Passport. Digitally check in at nearly 30 storied watering holes and earn points toward exclusive swag.
Get our hot tips on these cool spots and other fun stuff to do when you go
Black Canyon Water Trail
Boulder City
Distance from Las Vegas: 30 min / 25 mi
Find it on the Neon to Nature road trip
When it comes to action-packed Las Vegas day trips, it’s hard to beat the breathtaking Black Canyon Water Trail, which flows along Lake Mead National Recreation Area’s flat, gloriously greenish-hued stretch of the Lower Colorado River, between Hoover Dam and Arizona’s Willow Beach. Kayak through 30 miles of tranquil wilderness, stopping to swim and chill at sandy beaches, colorful coves, secluded hot springs, and the stunning and aptly named Emerald Cave. Wildlife is plentiful here, so keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, coyotes, desert bighorn sheep, and more.
For gear rentals or guided trips (including overnighters), the resident river rats at Desert Adventures have everything you need.
Travel Nevada Pro Tip
Hitting the Black Canyon Water Trail on a hot summer day? Do your insides a sweet favor and chill out with a legendary Dole Whip Float at Chilly Jilly’z in Boulder City on your way in or out!
Pioneer Saloon
Goodsprings Ghost Town
Distance from Las Vegas: 40 min / 40 mi
Find it on the Neon to Nature road trip
Boy, if these original stamped tin walls could talk… You may recognize this 1913-built saloon (the oldest in southern Nevada) from commercials and movies, as it’s starred in dozens. Today, the tavern—the de facto capital of Goodsprings Ghost Town—is home to legends, folklore, Food Network-famous fare, and notoriously killer cocktails. Take the self-guided walking tour of the old (allegedly haunted) miners’ cabins and schoolhouse outside, then belly up to the bar for a Pioneer Steak or Ghost Burger and wash it down with a signature Kentucky Mule or Bloody Mary.
Travel Nevada Pro Tip
As you embrace the old-school ambiance at the Pioneer Saloon, be sure to ask about the cigarette burns on the bar—evidence of an anxious, unexpected nap once taken by Hollywood star Clark Gable.
Mount Charleston
North Las Vegas
Distance from Las Vegas: 45 min / 40 mi
Find it on the Death Valley Rally road trip
Beat the heat by a mile—of elevation, that is—with an easy jaunt up to Mount Charleston, a quiet, outdoorsy community that is usually about 20 degrees cooler than Las Vegas. Tackle trails to scenic overlooks, ancient bristlecone pine trees, and famous Mary Jane Falls (“falls” may be a bit of a stretch in the summertime, but the brook may still be babbling). Don’t want to head home to the heat just yet? Treat yourself to cold beverages and tasty food—or even an overnight stay—with a beautiful view at the fabulous Retreat on Charleston Peak and keep those cool mountain vibes flowing.
Mountain Springs Saloon
Pahrump
Distance from Las Vegas: 40 min / 30 mi
Find it on the Death Valley Rally road trip
Although it technically has a Las Vegas address, this legendary biker bar sits at just above 5,000 feet of elevation on the pass between Blue Diamond and Pahrump. A popular pit stop for Death Valley Rally road trippers and motorcycle enthusiasts, Mountain Springs Saloon serves up tavern-priced ice-cold beers and cocktails, as well as tasty Mexican classics from the out-back food shack. Hang out in the bar or chill in the shady back garden next to some just-nice-enough water features.
Travel Nevada Pro Tip
Cruise up to Mountain Springs Saloon on the last Saturday of the month to enjoy the spoils of their legendary pig roast porch party. Be sure to bring your appetite. (Mar – Oct)
If “wet and wild” wets your whistle, cruise the Colorado River Corridor south to Laughlin, where all manner of on-the-water action awaits. Pack a picnic to Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area and bum it up on the swim-tastic sandy beach. Rent jet skis right off the docks at several waterfront hotels. Crank things up with London Bridge Jet Boat Tours and take a round-trip blast to Lake Havasu—home of the actual English landmark that was dismantled, shipped, and rebuilt here, piece-by-piece. Or keep it chill on a sunset dinner cruise with Laughlin River Tours. Then, follow your thirst to one of dozens of bars and taprooms along the Laughlin Riverwalk to toast a day well spent.
Worth the Trip
These destinations require a little more commitment than your average daylong excursion. But we can promise you: make the trip and you’ll instantly understand why they’re some of the coolest spots in the Silver State.
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