Valley of Fire State Park

Just one hour past Las Vegas - we hit the jackpot with a visit to Valley of Fire State Park! The park got it's name because in the sunlight on the red rock formations ( made from Aztec Sandstone) look like they are on fire.

As we entered the park we were greeted by this big horn sheep !

The park made us feel like we were on another planet! We ran out of time and did not get to do several things we wish we would have had time for... but this visit left us more than "stoked"!

Bee Hives

The "Bee Hives" are actually petrified ancient sand dunes. They were formed through geologic cross-bedding, which means the layers were deposited over the years to form the forms we see today. The grooves in the “beehives” were formed when there was water or wind that moved the material as it was forming.

Atlatl Rock

An atlatl is a device used for launching a spear; so that, when thrown into the air, the weapon will rotate. The ancient Indians used these weapons and they are depicted in the petroglyphs (rock carvings) located at Atlatl Rock. There is an 87 step staircase that takes you front and center to see these petroglyphs...some estimated to be over 4,000 years old!

Fire Wave and Pink Canyon via Seven Wonders Trail

We did this trail - and LOVED it! It is not marked and although we enjoyed that there were few people compared to the Fire Wave trailhead - what a shame most people don't get to experience the Pink Canyon portion of this trail. The trail brings you to the Fire Wave from the bottom instead of from the top. There are a few water elements that you have to straddle canyon walls to get around but it is a pretty easy hike.