150 million years in the making, this magnificent state park in Nevada is one of the best motorcycle trips from Las Vegas.
The Valley of Fire derives its name from the red sandstone formations that were formed from the great shifting sand dunes during the age of dinosaurs.
East entrance to Valley of Fire near petrified logs
As you enter the Valley of Fire you will find winding roads and incredibly long stretches that roll out like a black carpet on nature’s finest tapestry.
Valley of Fire – Scenic Loop Road
Riding a motorcycle in the Valley of Fire is one of the most rewarding experiences; for me this has been one of the best motorcycle day trips from Las Vegas.
Best time to visit the Valley of Fire
Spring (March – May) and Fall (Oct – Nov) are perhaps the best times to visit. The temperatures are mild in the mid-70s.
The freezing temperatures in winter and scalding summers (100 F – 120 F) are not ideal from motorcycle riding.
Daily-Use fee
A daily-use (entrance) fee is charged per vehicle upon entering the park.
Day use entrance fee: $10.00 per vehicle
Camping: $20.00 per night + $10.00 for sites with utility hook ups
If you have the “America the Beautiful” pass, it will not apply since Valley of Fire is a state park.
Entering Valley Of Fire – Best Route
There are two ways to access the Valley of Fire from Las Vegas.
From the west the fastest route is heading north on the I-15 freeway and take exit 75 toward Valley of Fire/Lake Mead . The distance is 60 miles of which 50 are freeway miles.
Northshore Road/Lake Mead Loop
Alternately, the most scenic route and perhaps the best motorcycle ride for any motorcyclist is the Northshore Road loop through Lake Mead National Recreation Area from the East. The views and roads on this 71 mile ride are otherworldly and most rewarding.
However, be aware that using this route has toll fees to access the Lake Mead National Recreation area.
In addition to the state park entrance fee the daily motorcycle entrance fee is $20.
It is free to ride this road if you have The America the Beautiful-The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass.
Pro tip – Fuel Management
Managing your fuel while on a motorcycle is the main challenge so we can keep riding uninterrupted.
For best fuel management I suggest taking the I-15 N and fill up your tank at the Chevron gas station on exit 75 before entering Valley of Fire Highway and then take the Northshore Road back to Las Vegas.
However, if you decide to take the scenic Northshore Road back and forth you have an option to fuel up at the Sinclair gas station in Echo Bay, but be aware this gas station is closed on Saturdays and Sundays, so plan accordingly.
The total roundtrip will range anywhere between 150-200 miles depending on the route you take.
Attractions
With logistics out of the way, the state park offers myriads of waypoints to stop and explore.
Valley of Fire Road from the West entrance
BEehives
Entering the park from the West entrance you will first encounter the beehives….
These unusual sandstone formations are eroded by wind and water.
ATlatl rock
Stop here and climb up the metal stairs for outstanding examples of ancient Indian rock art, or petroglyphs.
arch rock
As you continue along the scenic loop road you will come across the Arch Rock and Piano Rock. Please do not climb on the Arch Rock.
petroglyph canyon
As you continue north from the visitor center the most dramatic outcrop of red sandstone will loom ahead of you.
The petroglyph canyon in the Valley of Fire is perhaps the most dramatic and breathtaking landscape you will encounter. Iron oxide deposits give the sandstone the deep red and orange colors that are further accentuated by the sunlight.
rainbow vista
Continuing north you will come along Rainbow Vista which is an excellent photo point with a panoramic view of multi-colored sandstone.
Iron, zinc, manganese, silica give these sandstones the brilliant red, yellow, orange and purple colors.
fire canyon/silica dome
From Rainbow Vista make a right on Fire Canyon Road to the Silica Dome.
From this vantage point , there is an excellent view of the deep red sandstone Fire Canyon and the unique geological features of Silica Dome which is made of pure Silica.
White Domes
5.5 miles from the visitor center the interior ride of the Valley of Fire culminates here.
There is a picnic area and a 1.25-mile scenic trail with a slot canyon if you choose to do that.
I chose a dry creek bed out in the wilderness away from all the people to enjoy my lunch and coffee in peace.
Seven SISters
Back on the Valley of Fire Road and on your way out you will come across the Seven Sisters which are fascinating red rock formations easily accessible from the road.
As you head east and continue to exit the park, the scenery and landscape continues to be spectacular.
In conclusion, this roundtrip was about 160 miles, making Valley of Fire the best motorcycle trip from Las Vegas.
Pro-Tip: Northshore Road is one of the best motorcycling roads in Southern Nevada. 60 miles of pure fun that unfolds beautiful vistas at every turn. Additionally, if you are in the Lake Mead Recreational Area, do not miss the Lakeshore Road to Hoover Dam.
Watch the entire ride in stunning 4K by clicking on the video below.
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