Cathedral Gorge & Area 51 Day Tour from Las Vegas — Slot Canyons, Siltstone Spires, and Hiko
A one‑day loop from Las Vegas that pairs the narrow siltstone canyons of Cathedral Gorge with a roadside stop in enigmatic Hiko near Area 51. Expect short, uneven hikes, dramatic light, and a healthy dose of Nevada backroad character.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early for cooler light
Morning hours soften the canyon walls and cut the heat, especially in summer; aim to be at the park soon after arrival.
Wear grippy shoes
Loose siltstone and sandy washes need sturdy footwear with traction rather than sandals.
Carry 1–2 liters of water
Tour provides bottled water, but bring extra if you’re prone to dehydration or the day is hot.
Respect fragile formations
Avoid climbing the thin fins and stick to established paths — the siltstone erodes quickly under foot traffic.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Miller Point overlook near the park entrance for broad views of the badlands
- •The small Hiko museum/gift shop for local mining and ranching artifacts
Wildlife
- •Red‑tailed hawk
- •Desert cottontail (jackrabbit)
Conservation Note
The park’s fragile spires erode with foot traffic; sticking to signed trails and avoiding climbing on thin fins helps preserve formations for future visitors.
The area around Cathedral Gorge sits on former Pleistocene lakebeds; the formations are bentonite and siltstone shaped by episodic runoff and wind. Nearby settlements like Panaca and Hiko grew with mining and ranching in the 19th century.
Photographer's Notes
- • Inside the narrow slot sections for shafted light contrasts
- • Upper benches for panoramic badland compositions
- • Hiko main street for quirky roadside character shots
What to Bring
Hiking shoes with treadEssential
Stable footing for sandy washes, talus, and short scrambles in the park.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Open desert offers little shade; protect skin and eyes during the drive and hikes.
Hydration pack or 1–2L water bottlesEssential
Stay ahead of dehydration during long drives and warm-weather walking.
Light wind/rain jacket
Spring storms can be brief and cool; a shell helps for wind and sudden showers.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and does driving time count?
The tour is a full 10 hours total; that includes round‑trip driving from Las Vegas (roughly 1.75–2.25 hours each way depending on traffic).
Is admission to Cathedral Gorge included?
Admission is typically included by the operator, but confirm when booking — the itinerary notes park admission is covered for the guided visit.
Is this suitable for children?
Older children who can handle uneven terrain and short hikes will do fine; infants must sit on laps for transportation according to the operator’s policy.
Can I see Area 51 from the tour?
You won’t see the restricted Groom Lake facility itself; the stop in Hiko gives context, local stories, and a souvenir shop near the general Area 51 region.
What should I wear?
Light layers and sun protection in warm months, sturdy shoes with good traction year‑round, and a light jacket for spring mornings or cooler seasons.
Is the terrain exposed to weather hazards?
Yes — summer heat can be severe and occasional storms can create flash‑flood risk in narrow cuts; guides will alter plans if conditions are unsafe.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10 hours (including driving)
Location
Panaca, Nevada
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to handle 1–3 miles of walking on uneven, sometimes steep terrain and short scrambles.
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