Cathedral Rock Trail
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Cathedral Rock Trail
Difficulty Rating:
This stunning, popular hike in the Spring Mountains leads up a handful of switchbacks to a rocky promontory, granting sunning panoramic views of the park. The wide, well graded trail is easy to follow.
Getting there
From Las Vegas follow Route 95 North until just after you pass the city limits. From here watch out for signs towards Nevada 157 and Mt. Charleston. Turn left here and continue along this gradually climbing road for just over 21.0mi, almost till the end of the road. Turn right into the Cathedral Rock Trailhead (signposted as such) to find the large paved parking area.
About
| When to do | May through September (depending on snow) |
| Backcountry Campsites | Yes; Dispersed Camping |
| Toilets | At Trailhead |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Cathedral Rock Trail
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Cathedral Rock Trail
The trail begins between the upper and lower parking areas, besides the large informational sign. Immediately the trail begins to slowly gain elevation. You will pass by a handful of beautiful wooden signs – always follow the arrow pointing towards Cathedral Rock.
As the path continues you will start to switchback and gain more elevation. The trail will soon enter an avalanche chute with many young trees. When we last did the hike (early in the season), there was a ton of deadfall scattered over the trail. That being said, this never made the path hard to follow.
After switchbacking up for a ways, the trail will traverse to the right and you will continue towards the clear rocky promontory. As you approach the point you will have only a handful of more switchbacks to do before cresting the summit.
From the top of the climb, you will feel like you are able to see the entire park! Looking down you can see the quaint Old Town, and Charleston Peak will dominate the view to your left. To your right, you will see the valley and the road you came in on, as well as the desert in the distance. Additionally, behind you to your right you can see Griffith Peak. Rest here before making your way down to the car.
Check out more amazing hikes around Las Vegas:
Insider Hints
This hike can be very snowy in the early season. Phone the visitor centre before committing to the drive from Las Vegas.
Certainly not a hike to forget your camera for!
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Barbara Clarkson 4 years ago
Awesome short climb! This is a great hike.
Stevie Wander 4 years ago
Great scenery saw all sorts of beautiful rock formations.
Angel Wu 4 years ago
Hands down one of the most rewarding hikes I've done. I was truly satisfied with great views.
MissGiggles 4 years ago
Use sun protection as very little shade cover exists on the trail and bring plenty of water. Fun and lovely hike.
Cooper B. 5 years ago
The water was crystal clear and very refreshing. There are plenty of small fishes swimming around.
Stewart M. 5 years ago
Hiking here is a nice experience. There were a few rocky sections, but I would rate it as easy.
Emma Paxton 5 years ago
Exceptional hike with a healthy amount of switchbacks. Elevation was not enormous, yet the sweeping scenery from the top was fantastic.
Elsa K. 5 years ago
Fairly easy hike, with few challenged along the way. Not suitable for everyone.
Betty Jackman 5 years ago
It is my favorite hike I’ve ever done & cannot recommend it enough!!
Jan Meri 5 years ago
This hike is relatively easy. It took us 1 hour to complete the hike. It was very amusing.