Slot Canyon and old Movie Ruins . . .
The Trailhead for White Domes is at the end of the road (dead end) into the Valley of Fire past the Visitor Center. From the West Entrance gate, it is a scenic 3.7 mile drive to the Visitor's Center turn off. From here it is another 6 miles to the end of this road to reach the White Domes hike.
- Type: Hike
- Time: Half Day Adventure
- Difficulty: easy to moderate
- Dog Friendly: yes, with leash
- Kid Friendly: yes
- Hike Time: 30 minutes
- Distance: 1 mile round trip
This is one of my favorite hikes in the Valley of Fire because you get to see so many different colors of rocks, get to explore the many different structures of the sandstone, pass by old movie remains and, the best part, you get to hike in a beautiful slot canyon. The trail itself is easy although be sure to wear proper shoes as there is some slippery sandstone due to the excessive sand on the descending and ascending rocks. Another nice trait about this hike is that it is a loop that brings you back to the parking lot. If you just hike the loop you can do it in 30 minutes:however, I have always spent 2-3 hours on the hike enjoying the views and exploring the many plants and creatures you can spot out there. The slot canyon is particularly nice since it provides shade and it tends to be a lot cooler than out on the open parts of the trail. Creatures I have seen on this hike are Giant Hairy Scorpions, bats and very large Jack Rabbits. I would love to hear about any creatures you witness out here....please share in the blog below if you have run into creatures out there at White Domes.
Excellent hike for 8 months out of the year. Because of the heat, I avoid coming out to the Valley of Fire in the summer months. Just my own preference. The park is open year round and has an entrance fee of $10.00. This fee does not include the entrance fee to the Lake Mead Recreational area which is right outside the East Entrance/gate. The Valley of Fire State Park does not take the National Parks card but the Lake Mead Recreational area does.
The trailhead to White Domes has a nice covered picnic area and non-flush restrooms. Also plenty of parking including RV parking. Weekends tend to be busy so come early to get a parking spot!
