The River Mountains Loop Trail is a fully paved multi-use trail encircling the River Mountains between Henderson and Boulder City, offering superb views of Lake Mead, Las Vegas, and the surrounding Mojave Desert. Many visitors complete sections ranging from 5 to 15 miles. Mountain biking is very popular here.
The River Mountains Loop Trail is a 42-mile (67-kilometer) fully paved multi-use trail encircling the River Mountains between Henderson, Boulder City, and the Lake Mead National Recreation Area in southeastern Nevada. The trail connects the southern edge of the Las Vegas metropolitan area to the shores of Lake Mead, offering panoramic views across the Mojave Desert and Lake Mead reservoir with minimal technical difficulty. The paved surface is accessible to cyclists, runners, and walkers of all fitness levels, with the majority of visitors choosing to cover specific sections of 5 to 15 miles rather than the full loop. Multiple access points exist around the trail's perimeter. Major trailheads include the Railroad Pass area near Henderson, the Bootleg Canyon area in Boulder City, and the Lake Mead marina vicinity. Boulder City is approximately 30 miles from the Las Vegas Strip via US-95 South and US-93. No public transit directly serves the trail, though Henderson's city bus network reaches the northern trailhead areas; a personal vehicle is the most practical option. The full 42-mile loop is an ambitious one-day undertaking requiring 8 to 12 hours depending on pace. Elevation change is variable, with the most dramatic sections climbing over the River Mountains between Henderson and Boulder City at gradients of 5 to 8 percent that challenge cyclists and hikers alike. Views from the trail's higher elevations encompass Lake Mead's turquoise water, the Black Mountains of southern Nevada, and on clear days the Spring Mountains including Mount Charleston to the north and west. The Las Vegas valley is visible from the Boulder City ridge. Desert wildflowers including brittlebush, globe mallow, and desert marigold bloom along the trail margins from February through April. Mojave desert tortoises are occasionally reported crossing the trail; the species is federally threatened and must never be disturbed or handled. Mountain biking is very popular on the paved surface year-round in cooler hours.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Lake Mead / Henderson, NV
- Best season
- February to April and October to November (avoid summer midday heat above 100 degrees Fahrenheit)
Highlights
- Lake Mead panoramas
- Las Vegas valley views
- Paved surface suitable for bikes and runners
- Desert wildflowers in spring
Tips for visiting
- Avoid hiking or running between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. from May through September when temperatures frequently exceed 105 degrees Fahrenheit
- Carry a minimum of 2 liters of water for any section over 5 miles; water stations exist at some access points but are not reliable
- The Bootleg Canyon trailhead in Boulder City has the most developed facilities including restrooms and shade structures
- Spring (February through April) offers wildflower blooms and comfortable temperatures for longer sections of the trail
- A trail map app or GPS is recommended for navigation on longer sections; the AllTrails listing covers the full loop
- Cyclists share the paved trail; walkers and runners should stay right and be alert to passing bicycle traffic
When to visit
February through April for wildflowers and comfortable temperatures. October and November are the second-best window. The trail is open year-round but midday summer heat above 105 degrees Fahrenheit makes extended outings hazardous.
Accessibility
The River Mountains Loop Trail is fully paved with gentle to moderate grades and is one of the most accessible long-distance trails in Nevada for wheelchair users and mobility-impaired visitors. Sections near the River Mountains ridgeline have grades of 5 to 8 percent that may require a motorized mobility device; the flat lakeshore sections near Lake Mead are fully accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Can the full 42-mile loop be completed in a single day?
Experienced hikers and trail runners can complete the full loop in 8 to 12 hours depending on fitness and conditions. Most visitors choose shorter sections. Cyclists typically complete the full loop in 3 to 5 hours. The full loop is most feasible from October through April when temperatures are manageable.
Is the trail suitable for road bikes or only mountain bikes?
The River Mountains Loop Trail is fully paved and suitable for road bikes, gravel bikes, and hybrid bikes. Mountain bikes are also welcome. The pavement is generally in good condition; check with the Bureau of Land Management for any construction closures before setting out.
Are there entry fees to access the trail?
Most access points do not charge a fee. Parking at Lake Mead National Recreation Area access points requires a $35 per-vehicle entry fee (or an America the Beautiful pass). Trailheads within Henderson and Boulder City limits are free.
What is the water situation on the trail?
The trail passes through open desert; water sources are limited to a few developed trailheads. Hikers should carry all the water they need for their planned section and not rely on finding water along the route. Hydration packs are practical for longer distances.
Is the trail dog-friendly?
Dogs are permitted on leashes at most sections of the River Mountains Loop Trail. In summer, the paved surface becomes extremely hot and dangerous for dog paws; early morning or evening visits only are recommended. Some sections cross Bureau of Land Management land where dog rules apply.