Wetlands Trail

Wetlands Trail is a roughly 0.8-mile loop from the Northshore Road Mile 1.2 trailhead to Las Vegas Wash and back through a side canyon. It is a worthwhile short stop for open desert, a bluff-top look over the water and the unusual sound of running water here. Allow about an hour. Published totals vary with the route: the core loop is measured at about 0.7 mile, the expanded round trip is listed at 1.5 miles, and taking all three optional spurs brings it to about 1.76. This route follows the short core loop; the wash-side spurs add distance.

From the parking lot, head east over sparse desert pavement and low creosote. A short right-hand spur reaches the bluff edge above a concrete weir and its cascade. The main path continues along a narrow ridge before dropping steeply over uneven natural earth, loose gravel and sand; some of the largest steps have logs supporting the tread. At the low saddle, follow the left switchbacks into a side canyon, then take the dirt road back through layered alluvial deposits. Other footpaths descend to the water or follow the wash farther, making a longer outing.

Las Vegas Wash carries water from the valley toward Lake Mead, cutting into the bluffs. Honey mesquite, saltcedar, quailbush and arrowweed line the water, drawing birds and other wildlife into an otherwise sparse stretch of desert. Kangaroo-rat burrows may show among the creosote on the dry upper section. From the bluff, frame the cascading weir with the canyon walls; the optional water-level path gives a closer view.

Use the Wetlands Trailhead lot at Northshore Road mile 1.2. An accessible pit toilet and trash receptacles are at the lot, but drinking water is not. This is an unmaintained route with steep, loose footing and exposed bluff edges; a sign at the low saddle warns of swift water. Do not drink or swim in the wash. Bring water and, in summer, go during cooler morning or evening hours. Dogs are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet. The park entrance fee applies. An older route description shows a gate near the return; its current setup is unverified, so follow posted access signs.