Mouse’s Tank refers to the natural pothole that collected rain water. Little Mouse would hole up in Petroglyph Canyon to escape the law. Legend has it that when he would get drunk that he could be prone to violence, which led him steal, rob, and some even say murder, although it has not been verified. As with any arch, they can be very fragile so be considerate and don’t climb on the rock to get to arch, you can see it fine from below.ĭesert varnish, seen here, was the popular canvas for Indian rock artĪs for the name Mouse’s Tank, in the last 1800’s, there was a Piute Indian named Little Mouse, and he was local thief. It’s a small arch perched on top of a short rounded rock fin. Another 0.3 of a mile on the road will take you to Arch Rock. Once on Scenic Loop Road, follow the road 0.5 miles and you can visit Atlatl Rock, which contains ancient Indian rock art, specifically petroglyphs, which can be accessed by ascending metal steps. This road also take you to the campgrounds. From the west entrance ranger booth, go east for 1.8 miles and turn left on the Scenic Loop Road. This is not a hike, but more of a quick stop to take some photos of a small arch which is right off the side of the road. (See a Google Map for this hike at the end of this post)

Turn right onto Valley of Fire Highway and follow for 5.5 miles to reach the Visitors Center. If coming from the north, you can take the same exit as listed above, or you can get off of I-15 earlier at Exit 93 toward Nevada Hwy 169. Stop in to get updated weather conditions and drinking water. You will pay $10 at the West Entrance and the Visitors Center is 4 miles ahead on your left. Stay on Valley of Fire Highway for about 15 miles. Stay on I-15 north for 37 miles.Take Exit 75 (Valley of Fire/Lake Mead) Turn right (east) onto Valley of Fire Highway. If coming from The Strip in Las Vegas, take Flamingo to I-15 and head north. Pets: Permitted, must be on a leash no longer than six feet. 72 spots available, first come first served. Plenty of easily accessible high ground.Ĭamping – Permitted in designated areas only, fees payable at campgrounds. Prone to flash floods? – Can be prone to the rare flash flood, however the danger is minimal. Season to hike – The best time is from November to March, it is dangerously hot in the summer months Valley of Fire State ParkĪmount of water recommended – 2 liters per hike, in the summer bring 3 litersīathrooms – located at Visitors Center, Mouse’s Tank, Rainbow Vista, and White Domes Valley of Fire State Park is best between the months of October to April, while the heat is not as oppressive. There are a handful of short hikes that are easy, very colorful, and scenic for people of all ages. Valley of Fire State Park is just an hour drive from the Las Vegas Strip, and if you want to take a break from the blackjack tables, this is a great place to spend a half of a day.

Valley of fire state park