TR - VOF and Christmas

Question

I'll break this into 2 posts - VOF, then Las Vegas.

Easy drive, but a bit slower ride from Tempe thru Phoenix and Kingman, it was different to not be exiting Las Vegas Blvd, but drive was uneventful.

Over 40 years of visiting Las Vegas, we had never gone to Valley of Fire – VOF. We know that a daytrip just doesn’t work for us once we arrive in LV, because once we’re parked, and that first beer gets cracked – there are few plans other than getting checked in. Rather than stay near a casino, I chose to stay closer to VOF, so booked us a room at Moapa Motel. Check in very different, it’s inside the AM-PM gas station/market next door.

Some internet issues there, the workers couldn’t get a good connection to get a room code for us, but finally got in touch with the owner, and we were able to get a code to access our room. OK. Room was fine, clean and quiet. We had packed a food cooler for the trip and the next day at VOF, so we ate our dinner in room, and got a good night’s sleep.

Had a light breakfast and a couple cups of hot tea and honey, and were on the road before 8am. As we drove south on 169, saw a motel which would have been a perhaps better choice, the North Shore Inn, in Overton. Nice easy drive to the East entrance, paid the $15 entry, and got the map/brochure. First stop was Elephant Rock, and the hook was set – this Park is going to be better than we had expected! We climbed all around, getting some very cool (to us) pictures from all types of angles and perspectives – cool beans! The East petrified logs and the historic cabins took up more time than I had expected, as the Fire Wave was our main hike/priority. Of course, I had to take the turnoff to see the views from Fire Canyon Overlook – more wandering around, taking pictures, soaking in the very different rock formations and colors, still amazed at just how varied the landscape is.

As we arrive at the parking for Fire Wave, it was pretty crowded already, but found a spot to park, geared up and followed the masses. Not the way we prefer hiking, but we just gotta roll with it. Pretty easy walk down to the wave, enjoyed the views a bit, checking it from all different vantage points. I’m sure the colors are even better early and late in the day. At the marked trail end, saw some folks taking the loop return down to the right, so we followed, (a reasonable distance behind). This added an entirely different landscape of rocks, walking down the wash – and then back up…

Parking was non-existent at the Rainbow Vista area, so we continued to Atlatl Rock. This is a very well preserved wall of petroglyphs, and it was something to imagine the lives of those who made those early markings. Had a late lunch from our cooler at the Beehives, then started our drive to Las Vegas. We both were all smiles and talked about how we need to return to get a few of the hikes we missed. We now have plans to return before we head in for Super Bowl weekend.

Las Vegas at Christmas – TBC

Answer

It sounds like you had an amazing adventure at the Valley of Fire (VOF)! I’m sure your experience there was incredible, given the stunning landscapes and rock formations. Valley of Fire is definitely one of those places that exceeds expectations, and it’s great that you were able to enjoy it without the usual Las Vegas crowds. The Fire Wave, Elephant Rock, and petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock are all iconic stops that showcase the park’s unique beauty. I’m glad to hear you’re already planning a return trip!

As for your Christmas plans in Las Vegas, it would be great to hear how the city transforms for the holiday season! I’ll be interested to see what unique holiday activities and events you experienced there. Las Vegas at Christmas is something special, with all the elaborate decorations, festive displays, and even some snow (sometimes). It's a very different vibe compared to the usual Las Vegas excitement, and there are plenty of holiday-themed attractions to explore.

If you're looking for tips or advice on how to best experience Las Vegas during the holidays, there are lots of must-see spots for Christmas, such as the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, the Winter Wonderland at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and the ice skating rink at The Cosmopolitan. For a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, you could check out some of the holiday light displays around the city. The Las Vegas Strip itself is lit up with festive decorations, making for a magical walk during the evening. Also, many resorts and casinos offer seasonal shows and events, so there’s no shortage of fun activities to get into the Christmas spirit!

TR - VOF and Christmas

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