Short loop through multicolored sandstone, a narrow slot canyon and the ruins of a 1966 film set. Closed each year from May 15 to September 30 because of heat.
White Domes Loop is a short, scenic circuit at the end of White Domes Road in Valley of Fire State Park, about 50 miles (one hour) northeast of Las Vegas in Nevada. The trailhead is at the road's end, within the park at Overton, NV 89040. No public transit reaches the park, so access is by car only via I-15 and SR 169. Day use costs $15 per non-Nevada vehicle and $10 per Nevada-plated vehicle, and the west entrance is closed Monday through Thursday through the end of 2026, so visitors on those days should use the east entrance. The loop is about 1.1 miles (1.8 km) with roughly 150 feet (45 m) of elevation gain, and it takes 45 minutes to an hour, which makes it an easy hike. The surface is a mix of sand, slickrock and packed trail, and the route is marked with posts across the rock. The path winds through multicolored sandstone in shades of white, pink, orange and red, descends into a narrow slot canyon and passes the remains of a film set built in 1966 for a western movie. Hikers should be ready for sandy stretches, a few short drops and tight passages in the slot section. Shade is limited, and the rock and sand reflect heat. The park closes the area each year from May 15 to September 30 because of the extreme heat. No water or shelter is available on the loop, so 1 to 2 liters of water per person should be carried. The loop can be hiked in either direction, but following the posted markers helps in the sandy stretches. Closed shoes and a sun hat are recommended, and the park can be contacted at 702-397-2088 for current conditions.
| Distance | About 1.1 miles (1.8 km) loop |
|---|---|
| Duration | 45 minutes-1 hour |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Trailhead | Car only (no public transit); 50 miles (1 hour) northeast via I-15 and SR 169; Valley of Fire day use $15 per non-Nevada vehicle ($10 Nevada plates); west entrance closed Monday-Thursday through end of 2026, use east entrance |
| Best season | October-April (closed May 15-September 30) |
| Address | White Domes Rd (end of road), Valley of Fire State Park, Overton, NV 89040 |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Valley of Fire State Park
What to bring
- Closed shoes
- 1-2 liters of water
- Sun hat
Location
White Domes Rd (end of road), Valley of Fire State Park, Overton, NV 89040
36.4864, -114.5303 View on map
Highlights
- Multicolored sandstone in white, pink, orange and red tones
- Narrow slot canyon section along the loop
- Remains of a 1966 film set near the trail
- Short, well-marked circuit suitable for most hikers
Tips for visiting
- Bring 1 to 2 liters of water; none is available on the loop.
- Wear closed shoes for sand and rock, and carry a sun hat.
- Check the closure dates; the area is closed May 15 to September 30.
- Follow the marker posts across the slickrock to stay on the route.
- Use the east entrance Monday through Thursday while the west entrance is closed through 2026.
When to visit
October to April is the open and comfortable season. Early morning and late afternoon are cooler and give the best color on the rock.
Accessibility
The loop is not wheelchair- or stroller-friendly because of sand, slickrock and a narrow slot canyon section.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long is the White Domes Loop?
The loop is about 1.1 miles (1.8 km) and typically takes 45 minutes to an hour.
Is White Domes Loop closed in summer?
Yes. It is closed each year from May 15 to September 30 because of extreme heat.
What is the film set on the trail?
The remains of a set built in 1966 for a western film are visible near the route.
How much does it cost to enter?
Day use is $15 per non-Nevada vehicle and $10 per Nevada-plated vehicle.