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What can you when you’re tired of Las Vegas’ desert heat? Go to the mountains, that’s what!

The Mount Charleston Wilderness is less than 50 miles away from the Strip, but what a difference an hour’s drive makes. You’ll discover much cooler temperatures away from the valley floor, sometimes as much as 30 degrees. The highest point, Charleston Peak, stands 11,900 feel tall.

As you drive from the desert, you will enter the Mount Charleston Wilderness, part of the Toiyabe National Forest, thousands of acres of pine and aspen, with lots of chances for sightseeing, picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, and camping. Prime areas to stop and have a cool picnic lunch include the Deer Creek, Old Mill, Cathedral Rock, and Foxtail areas. All of these provide tables, cooking grills, and restroom facilities. Fees are charged at some of the sites and large groups will need to make reservations.

If the two of you like to camp, the Mount Charleston area can accommodate you with campgrounds ranging in services from basic to those with more comforts. Several are handicap accessible, as well. However, all campgrounds require reservations by calling 800/280-CAMP.

Mt. Charleston

Mount Charleston temperature chart

(High/Low)
January 38/10
February 53/13
March 40/17
April 47/21
May 52/28
June 71/41
July 75/42
August 73/42
September 66/35
October 50/22
November 38/10
December 33/10

There are numerous good hiking trails throughout the Wilderness area. The refreshing mountain air, scented with the aroma of the pines, surrounds you and the oppressive heat of the desert floor is just a memory. Established trails range in length from .1 mile to over 10 miles so you can pick the walk best suited to your children’s ages and stamina (and yours!) and the amount of time you have available to explore. One short trail, Desert View, is paved for use by wheelchair-bound visitors. On the trails at higher elevations you will see stands of Bristlecone Pines, among the oldest living organisms on earth. Many trails offer glimpses of streams and flowing springs and even waterfalls.

Directions to Mount Charleston

To reach Mount Charleston from Las Vegas, take Highway 95 north to Kyle Canyon, then turn on Highway 157.