Memorial Day Weekend Draws Visitors to Las Vegas National Parks

Categories: Events/What's HappeningHolidaysNatureNews

Stunning scenery of Las Vegas national parks attracting summer visitors.

News Summary

With Memorial Day weekend approaching, national parks near Las Vegas are preparing for an influx of visitors amid a heatwave. Red Rock National Conservation Area and Lake Mead National Recreation Area are popular destinations, but visitors should plan ahead due to timed-entry reservations and potential trail closures. Zion National Park is also seeing increased traffic, while construction at the Grand Canyon is affecting visitor access. Safety precautions are emphasized for those heading to Death Valley and Great Basin National Park offers a cooler alternative for outdoor enthusiasts.

Las Vegas, NV – With Memorial Day weekend on the horizon, national parks around Las Vegas are gearing up for an influx of visitors as a summer heatwave serves as a prompt to outdoor enthusiasts. The anticipated warm weather will likely lead many to seek the natural beauty and recreational opportunities offered at nearby parks.

The most convenient destinations for outdoor activities include Red Rock National Conservation Area and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Visitors planning to explore Red Rock will need to secure timed-entry reservations, which are mandatory until May 31, 2025. As the heat escalates during the summer months, several popular trails at Lake Mead will also face closures, influencing visitors’ plans.

Outdoor enthusiasts should prepare adequately for their excursions by ensuring they carry ample water and suitable snacks. It is vital for visitors to be aware of the locations of shaded areas and to avoid hiking alone for their safety.

Another major favorite, Zion National Park, marked a notable surge in popularity last year with approximately 92,000 visits recorded over the Memorial Day weekend of 2024. In total, Zion welcomed nearly 5 million visitors throughout the year, a statistic that ranked as the second-highest in the National Park system. As a result of this popularity, travelers should expect long lines, crowded entrance stations, congested roadways, and shuttle buses.

Visitors merely passing through Zion are advised to plan their travel to avoid peak visitation times. Alternative routes around the park without entering it are supported by Utah State Route 20, Utah State Route 14, and U.S. Highway 89, which can ease travel to other destinations.

Additionally, major construction at the Grand Canyon is underway for a new Transcanyon Waterline. On May 15, the Bright Angel Trail and campground on the South Rim will reopen for visitors, in conjunction with the North Rim also beginning its operating season on the same day. However, the Bright Angel Point Trail on the North Rim will remain closed for the entirety of the 2025 season. New campground rates took effect on May 1, with standard rates set at $30 per night for Desert View, North Rim, and Mather campgrounds, while group sites will cost $55 a night. The Wall Street Trail recently reopened after repairs following concerns about potential rockfalls.

In the hotter regions, Death Valley continues to receive attention for its extreme temperatures; however, the Panamint Mountains offer a cooler refuge from the heat. Most of the major roads in Death Valley are now open following previous flood damages, making access easier for visitors.

For those seeking a less crowded option, Great Basin National Park, located approximately 285 miles from Las Vegas, presents an appealing getaway with attractions such as Lehman Caves and high mountain scenery. Recognized as a Dark Sky Park, Great Basin offers splendid stargazing opportunities throughout the year.

As outdoor adventures ramp up for Memorial Day, visitors to Death Valley are encouraged to prioritize safety and be aware of the risks associated with heat-related illnesses. Additionally, a variety of hotels and unique lodging options are available near Zion and Bryce Canyon for families seeking outdoor experiences.