By Paula Jacoby-Garrett & Kimberly Reinhart
Finding Isolation at
NATURAL BRIDGE CANYON
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By Kimberly Reinhart & Paula Jacoby-Garrett
f you are a hiking veteran like us, you’ve likely been blown away by the increased popularity that the Covid-19 pandemic has brought to the hiking trails around Southern Nevada and are constantly on the lookout for a trail less traveled. In these times, “getting away from people” is nearly impossible at the always popular Red Rock Canyon, Mt. Charleston, and Valley of Fire hiking trails. So where do you go if you and your dog are looking for more nature with fewer people? Natural Bridge Canyon near Nelson is a great option. This hike offers beautiful landscape views, moderate scrambling, and a 25-feet long rock bridge. To get to the trailhead, drive south on I-11 toward Boulder City. Exit south onto Highway 95, toward Searchlight. Drive south for approximately 10 miles to Nelson Road and turn left onto Nelson Road. Drive 9.5 miles and watch for a small dirt parking area on the left. The trailhead is unmarked but Google Maps shows the location as the El Dorado Trailhead. From the parking area, walk east on the dirt road. After a short distance, a worn trail can be seen on your left going up a steep ridge. Follow the trail as it winds up and over two ridges then drops down into a wash and subsequently into a canyon leading to the Natural Bridge. The trail isn’t always obvious, so pay attention to your surroundings and watch for blue dots of spray paint along the route.
The hike to the Natural Bridge is approximately 1 mile, one-way; however, it requires climbing around boulders and a couple hundred feet of elevation change. For a bit of fun, after your hike head east to Nelson on Nelson Road. This is a fun old mining town with an eclectic collection of old cars and funky buildings among other gems. Past Nelson, the road leads to an access point to the Colorado River. There is a great beach for swimming. As always, remember to leave no trace on your adventure, which includes cleaning up after your dog.
Best Hikes With Dogs: Las Vegas & Beyond By Kimberly Reinhart & Paula Jacoby-Garrett Great guide with recommendations for more dog-friendly hiking trails within 3 hours of Las Vegas. 8
Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2021
