Cathedral Rock Trail Reopens: A Must-Do Family Hike Near Las Vegas
If you’re looking for a fun, scenic escape from the Las Vegas heat, I have great news—Cathedral Rock Trail and Deer Creek Picnic Area on Mount Charleston are finally open again! After being closed for nearly two years due to storm damage from Tropical Storm Hilary, these family-favorite spots are back and ready for your next outdoor adventure.
As a mom raising kids in Las Vegas, I’m always on the lookout for safe, dog-friendly trails near the city. Mount Charleston has always been our go-to for fresh air, cooler temperatures, and quality time away from screens. And this weekend, we finally got to return to Cathedral Rock, one of our favorite hiking trails just 45 minutes from the Las Vegas valley.
A Family-Friendly Trail Just Outside Las Vegas
If you haven’t been to Cathedral Rock before, it’s a moderate-level hike with beautiful views, shady trees, and enough elevation gain to tire the kids out (in a good way!). My dogs were so excited to be back on the trail, and my kids loved spotting wildlife and scrambling over rocks. It felt like a return to normal—and a reminder of how lucky we are to have places like this so close to home.
What Happened to the Trail?
Back in 2023, Tropical Storm Hilary dumped about 10 inches of rain in a single hour on Mount Charleston. That much water caused massive erosion, with parts of Cathedral Rock Trail left with ruts as deep as four feet. According to U.S. Forest Service Officer Taylor Tims, rebuilding the trail meant hauling in boulders and labor-intensive repairs to make it safe again.
Thanks to funding from the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act and the hard work of the Forest Service, Southern Nevada Climate Coalition, and Spring Mountain Youth Camp, the trail has been restored for families and nature-lovers alike.
What’s Open and What’s Still Closed?
OPEN:
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Cathedral Rock Trail
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Deer Creek Picnic Area
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Lower Bristlecone Trail
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Still CLOSED (Expected reopening’s):
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Mary Jane Falls (2027)
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Trail Canyon (2027)
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Upper Bristlecone Trail (2029)
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Tips for Visiting With Kids and Dogs
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Go early to avoid the midday heat, especially in summer.
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Bring water for everyone—humans and pups!
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Wear sturdy shoes—the trail is rocky in some areas.
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Pack snacks or lunch and enjoy them at the picnic area.
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Practice Leave No Trace—let’s keep this trail beautiful for everyone.
So pack up the kids, leash up the dogs, and head out to Cathedral Rock Trail for a day of memory-making under the pines.
Want more local tips for family-friendly Las Vegas hikes, splash pads, and things to do with kids near you?
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