ROSE FAMILY JOURNAL

I do not need to tell you that Las Vegas is hot in the summer time. It is like stick-your-head-in-the-oven hot. BUT if you are looking to get a good hike in during those summer months, Mount Charleston and Lee Canyon are two jaw-dropping gorgeous areas and a solid 20 degrees (or more) cooler than down in the valley. 

In my mind, there are two categories of (day) hikes: loop hikes with minimal elevation gain and hiking to peaks (or a high point) and back down. Those loop hikes with minimal elevation gain are the best when you want to get out, feel the cool breeze on your cheeks and across your back, smell the bristlecone pine fresh air, and move your legs. I think of hikes where you hike a peak and back as more of a trip you plan your day around. Whatever you have the time and motivation to do, Mount Charleston/Lee Canyon have a variety of both. This post covers hikes with minimal uphills and those treasured loop hikes. 

Without further ado…

Upper and Lower Bristlecone Loop

5.7 miles
Type: Loop

Elevation Gain: 931 Feet
Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/upper-and-lower-bristlecone-loop 

This was the first trail we ever did in the Spring Mountains and therefore it is near and dear. There is a short part of the loop where you are hiking either downhill or uphill on the road, and for this reason we since have gravitated toward the next hike on the list. Any part of the Bristlecone loop you choose out in Lee Canyon, you are guaranteed fantastic views and that post-hike positive feeling. If you are looking for a stop for a meal, beverage, a ride on the ski lift, or to play a few games, this trail also takes you right to the entrance of the Lee Canyon Ski Resort area, which is open Friday – Sunday in the summer.

Upper Bristlecone/Old Bristlecone Loop
5.6 miles
Type: Loop
Elevation Gain: 1,345 Feet
Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/bristlecone-bonanza-no-name-loop

The switchbacks on this trail and the steep downhill are noticeably challenging. However, it is a loop – a top shelf perk, and you are treated with the prize of Mount Charleston views after all of the hard parts. This hike is one of few places where we have seen wild horses, and it is our go-to hike when we are not sure where to go. This trail always makes us happy no matter how many times we test our lungs (and thighs) on it. 

Fletcher Canyon
4.2 Mile
Type: Out and Back
Elevation Gain: 1,210 Feet
Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/fletcher-canyon–2 

This elevation gain is gradual the entire way into this trail and eventual canyon. As you are hiking in, you genuinely might think that you are just THAT out of shape. However, on the way back, you start to fly downhill and you realize you are in better shape after all. We love scrambling and using our hands and feet around parts of hikes, and the end of this canyon gives you that option. If that is not your cup of tea, you can turn back at this point which is equally pleasing. A trail off of this one, Eagle’s Nest (2.7 miles), is also a wonderful loop trail. Much of the trail is in full exposure of the sun. That aspect makes it a great option for one of those colder days.

Showgirl Trail
4.0 Mile (or less, if you would like)
Type: Out and Back
Elevation Gain: 423 Feet
Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/showgirl-trail 

One evening, when arriving close to sunset, we wanted to go on a short walk and picnic, and we chose this trail. There were a few nice spots to sit and eat a packed meal by the trailhead, and you can walk out as far as you would like with views of the pine trees and surrounding mountain and desert views. This is a great spot for catching a sunset.