Valley of Fire State Park, located about an hour northeast of Las Vegas, Nevada, is a 40,000-acre geologic wonderland featuring bright red Aztec sandstone formations, petrified trees, and ancient petroglyphs dating back over 2,000 years. Among its many attractions, the park offers a unique slot canyon experience that is a must-see for any state park touring enthusiast.
Cost and Fees
The entrance fee to Valley of Fire State Park is $10 per vehicle. This fee grants access to all park facilities and trails, including the slot canyon. For those planning to camp in the park, RV sites with power and water hookups are available for an additional fee.
Timings and Hours
Valley of Fire State Park is open seven days a week, 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset. The Visitor Center, which offers exhibits on the park’s geology, ecology, prehistory, and history, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.. During the warmer months (May-September), many of the park’s trails, including the slot canyon, are closed annually for safety reasons.
Rates and Value
The slot canyon experience at Valley of Fire State Park offers excellent value for the cost of admission. The park’s other attractions, such as the Fire Wave and pastel canyon, provide additional hiking opportunities that showcase the park’s unique geology and beauty.
Unique Perspective
The slot canyon at Valley of Fire State Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique perspective on the park’s geology. The narrow canyon walls, sculpted by wind and water over millions of years, provide a striking contrast to the park’s expansive vistas and colorful rock formations.
Critical Details
Hiking in the slot canyon requires a moderate level of fitness and proper preparation. Visitors should bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. During the warmer months, the park’s trails, including the slot canyon, can be dangerously hot, and many are closed annually for safety reasons.
Exact Facts, Figures, and Data Points
| Fact | Figure |
|---|---|
| Park Size | 40,000 acres |
| Entrance Fee | $10 per vehicle |
| Park Hours | Sunrise to Sunset, 365 days a year |
| Visitor Center Hours | 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily |
| Closed Trails (May-September) | Includes slot canyon |
| Campgrounds | 72 units, plus RV sites with hookups |
| Group-use Campsites | Up to 45 people, reserved in advance |
| Shaded Areas with Restrooms | Located throughout the park |
| Hiking Trails | Vary in length and difficulty |
| 2019 Visitation | Over 300,000 visitors |
Phone Numbers
Valley of Fire State Park Visitor Center: (702) 397-2088.
Real-Life Incidents/Statistics
In 2019, over 300,000 visitors explored the beauty of Valley of Fire State Park. During the warmer months, the park’s trails, including the slot canyon, can experience a high volume of medical calls, search and rescue missions, and fatalities due to the extreme heat and challenging terrain.
References
- Destinations.rei.com, “5 Can’t-Miss Valley of Fire Hikes – REI Co-op Adventure Center”
- Alltrails.com, “10 Best Hikes and Trails in Valley of Fire State Park | AllTrails”
- Meghikes.com, “Fire Wave and Pastel Canyon, Valley of Fire – MEG HIKES”
- Parks.nv.gov, “Valley of Fire – Nevada State Parks”
- Yourhikeguide.com, “Valley of Fire State Park – Your Hike Guide”