White Domes Trail, Valley of Fire - 10/19/14

Valley of Fire is the oldest state park in Nevada and was established in 1935. It was designated as a National Landmark in 1968. Red sandstone formations formed here from shifting sand dunes 150 million years ago. The unique landscape found in the 42,000 acre park was created by complex uplifting and faulting in the region followed by extensive erosion.

When visiting the park, your first stop should be the Visitor Center where there are informative exhibits regarding the geology, wildlife, and early inhabitants of the area. We picked up a map that provides details about the scenic drives, hiking trails, and picnic areas throughout the park.

The rock formations behind the Visitor Center are just the beginning of the amazing sights you will see here.

We took a right out of the Visitor Center and travelled north on White Domes Road to the 1.25 mile White Domes trail at the end of the road.

Many movies and TV shows have been filmed at Valley of Fire. This is a ruin from the movie, The Professionals, made in 1966 starring Burt Lancaster, Lee Marvin, and Claudia Cardinale.

Proceeding along the White Domes Trail we came upon the well-known slot canyon.

Continuing on the trail (which, fortunately was well marked), we saw more amazing rock formations with beautiful colors.

The erosion caused by wind is incredible!

Sadie!

Loved this view of red rock formations along White Domes trail.

And so did Sadie!

This formation was near the end of the loop trail.

We continued to explore additional areas of the park that are covered in posts I will add in the next day or so.

Admission to Valley of Fire State park is $10/vehicle. We had been to the park in 2011 when we had visited Las Vegas, but we had not spent as much time here as we wanted. We really enjoy the state parks because dogs are permitted on trails. It is always a fun outing for us!

Website:  www.parks.nv.gov/parks/valley-of-fire-state-park/