Ride a Slingshot Through Valley of Fire: Half-Day Mojave Road Trip from Las Vegas
Swap neon for sandstone on a half-day escape from Las Vegas. Drive a Slingshot into Valley of Fire State Park to see sculpted red rock, ancient petroglyphs and photo-ready overlooks with short, easy walks between stops.
The Experience
Before You Go
Carry extra water
Temperatures can spike; bring a 1–2L refillable bottle even though bottled water is provided.
Wear sun-forward clothing
A wide-brim hat, UV shirt and sunscreen protect on exposed trails and from reflected sunlight on the rocks.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Short walks include uneven slickrock and loose gravel — low hikers or trail shoes are best.
Protect camera gear from dust
Use lens caps and a sealed bag; wind and grit are common on the open Slingshot and at viewpoints.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stone cabins from 1930s park development near the visitor center
- •Smaller petroglyph panels off the main Atlatl Rock stop that get fewer visitors
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Desert tortoise
Conservation Note
The park’s cryptobiotic soils and petroglyphs are fragile—stay on trails, don’t touch rock art, and pack out all trash to minimize impact.
Valley of Fire became Nevada’s first state park in the 1930s; ancient petroglyphs around Atlatl Rock record millennia of human presence.
Photographer's Notes
- • Elephant Rock pullout for framed silhouette shots
- • Rainbow Vista for broad panoramas and layered ridgelines
- • Atlatl Rock for detailed petroglyph close-ups
What to Bring
Refillable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is critical in the Mojave heat even on short walks.
Sunglasses and sunscreenEssential
Protects against intense sun and glare off pale sandstone.
Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Provide traction on slickrock and uneven trail surfaces.
Light windproof layer
Open-cockpit Slingshot rides are windy — a thin jacket helps during morning or evening drives.
Common Questions
Is park admission included in the tour price?
Yes — park entrance fees are included in the tour package.
Are helmets and safety equipment provided?
Helmets are provided for all riders; guides will brief you on vehicle safety before departure.
Do I need a driver’s license to operate the Slingshot?
Yes — a valid driver’s license is required to drive a Slingshot; the operator will confirm age and licensing during booking.
How much driving is involved?
Expect about a 70-minute scenic drive each way from Las Vegas with stops at key viewpoints inside the park.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours generally run year-round; operators may adjust the itinerary for safety, and the cancellation policy requires 24-hour notice for a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility limits?
Short walks include uneven terrain; travelers with significant mobility limits should check with the operator. Children are allowed but age and seating restrictions may apply — confirm when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Overton, Nevada
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for short walks and climbing low rock steps; no sustained exertion required
Ready to Explore Overton?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now