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Adventure Collective Journal

Explore Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park in an Open-Air Slingshot

Explore Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park in an Open-Air Slingshot

Drive an open-air Slingshot through Nevada’s vast Valley of Fire State Park. Discover ancient petroglyphs, unique rock formations, and panoramic desert vistas on this thrilling half-day tour from Las Vegas.

Overton, Nevada
4–5 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Stay Hydrated in the Desert Heat

Bring at least 1 liter of water per person; temperatures can soar and water is limited on the trails.

Wear Closed-Toe, Sturdy Footwear

Sandstone surfaces and desert trails can be uneven and slippery—good shoes improve stability.

Dress in Layers for Temperature Swings

Desert temperatures fluctuate; a lightweight jacket is useful for cooler mornings and evenings.

Start Early to Avoid Peak Heat

Begin your tour in the morning to experience cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Rainbow Vista offers less-crowded panoramic views of multi-hued rock formations.
  • Moapa Travel Plaza is a convenient rest stop with local snacks on the return drive.

Wildlife

  • Desert bighorn sheep
  • Greater roadrunner

Conservation Note

Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails to protect fragile desert ecosystems and petroglyph sites from erosion and damage.

The Valley of Fire holds petroglyphs created by ancient Puebloan peoples, highlighting millennia of human presence in the area.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour, Mid-morning, Late afternoon
Key viewpoints:
  • Rainbow Vista
  • Elephant Rock
  • Atlatl Rock
Subjects to capture:Sandstone formations, Petroglyphs, Desert landscape

What to Bring

SunglassesEssential

Protect your eyes from intense desert sun while driving and exploring outdoors.

Closed-Toe Hiking ShoesEssential

Provide stability and grip on rocky, uneven paths around the park's formations.

Lightweight Jacket or Windbreaker

Useful for cooler mornings and evenings when desert temperatures drop.

Wide-Brimmed HatEssential

Shield your face and neck from sun exposure during the open Slingshot drive.

Common Questions

Is previous driving experience required to operate the Slingshot?

No prior experience is necessary; full instructions are provided before the tour begins.

Are helmets provided and required during the tour?

Yes, helmets are included and must be worn for safety while driving the Slingshot.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?

This tour requires moderate fitness and mobility to manage vehicle controls and short walks; it’s not recommended for young children or those with mobility limitations.

Can I bring my own camera or smartphone for photos?

Yes, photography is encouraged—just be prepared to keep your belongings secure while driving.

Are refreshments included during the tour?

Bottled water is provided, but bringing snacks is recommended as there are limited stops for food.

What is the best time of year for this tour?

Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, while summer can be very hot; early morning departures help mitigate heat issues.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

4–5 hours

Location

Overton, Nevada

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness required to manage some walking on uneven terrain and desert conditions.

Free cancellation available

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