Attractions and Places To See around Lake Mead - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see around Lake Mead include a diverse landscape where three desert ecosystems converge, offering a blend of human-made marvels and natural beauty. The region encompasses two vast lakes, rugged mountain ranges, and significant historical sites. Visitors can explore a variety of Lake Mead viewpoints landmarks and geological features. This area provides insights into engineering achievements and the natural history of the American Southwest.
Best attractions and places to see around Lake Mead
- The most popular attractions is Hoover Dam, a man-made monument that was built between 1930 and 1935 to provide controlled water delivery and generate electricity. This massive structure is notable for its engineering and offers views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River.
- Another must-see spot is High Scaler Statue at Hoover Dam, a man-made monument and historical site. Visitors can appreciate this sculpture honoring the workers who scaled the canyon walls during the dam's construction.
- Visitors also love River Mountains Loop Trail – East Side, a trail mostly used by cyclists. This non-motorized trail offers a challenging ride around the River Mountains with scenic views.
- Lake Mead is known for its human-made marvels, natural features like canyons and hot springs, and cultural sites. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from historical ruins to diverse desert ecosystems.
- The attractions around Lake Mead are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and over 100 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Hoover Dam
Highlight • Monument
The dam has 17 turbine-driven generators and delivers more than half of the 2,080 megawatts of energy produced to Southern California. Depending on how much water is retained by the dam, the Colorado River has a coffee-brown color, since sediments are stirred up when the water level is high. If more water is held back, the river is almost clear and has a turquoise blue color.
From the higher parking areas you have a nice walk down and you get a good view over the area.
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High Scaler Statue at Hoover Dam
Highlight • Monument
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St. Thomas Ghost Town
Highlight • Historical Site
Today, you can visit the ruins of the old school house, a hotel, houses and other relics. Bring plenty of water and avoid the heat. There is no shade out here.
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Colorado River
Highlight • River
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River Mountains Loop Trail – East Side
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tips from the Community
One of the highlights at the Hoover Dam
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The Colorado River flows through the Grand Canyon and then widens to form Lake Mead behind the Hoover Dam on the Arizona-Nevada border.
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A striking statue at Hoover Dam honoring the brave workers who scaled the canyon walls. Worth a quick stop to appreciate the history and the sculpture by Steven Liguori.
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HIGH SCALER Sculpture by Steven Liguori
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From a 221 meter high observation deck, we enjoy the breathtaking view of Lake Mead, the Colorado River and the numerous valleys and gorges that surround the dam. The Hoover Dam is about as high as a 60-story building and was the tallest dam in the world when it was built in 1935. During our visit, we have the opportunity to go inside the dam. We walk through the original construction tunnels and visit the observation deck with a view of a pressure pipeline and 8 of the commercial generators in the Nevada Powerhouse.
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Be sure to park (free on the Arizona side, from parking lot 11) and walk across the dam. This way you can appreciate the mighty structure even better.
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Really great non-motorized trail that goes all around the River Mountains. Horseback riding is allowed in some sections and hikers and runners can cluster in parts of it, but it is mostly used by cyclists, as it is truly a pleasure to ride, which doesn't mean it isn't also quite challenging, and the heat must be taken into account during certain times of the year!
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This massive concrete wall tames the Colorado River, creating Lake Mead behind it. Enough concrete was used in its construction to build a sidewalk that circles the Earth around the Equator! There are many dams bigger than this one, though, just imagine!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Lake Mead?
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a unique ecological crossroads where three desert ecosystems—the Mojave, Great Basin, and Sonoran deserts—converge. You can explore the expansive Colorado River, which forms Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, offering opportunities for water activities. Other natural highlights include the steep-walled Black Canyon, natural hot springs like Gold Strike and Arizona Hot Spring, and the geological marvel of Owl Canyon and Liberty Bell Arch.
Are there any historical sites or cultural points of interest to visit?
Yes, the region is rich in history. You can visit the poignant St. Thomas Ghost Town, a settlement once submerged by Lake Mead that has re-emerged due to lower water levels. The 'Lost City' (Pueblo Grande de Nevada) and the Lost City Museum offer insights into early Native American cultures. Of course, the iconic Hoover Dam itself is a significant historical and engineering marvel.
What outdoor activities are popular around Lake Mead?
The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. Hiking is popular on trails like the Historic Railroad Trail and the St. Thomas Loop Trail. Cycling is also a favorite, especially on the River Mountains Loop Trail – East Side. For more detailed routes, explore the hiking, MTB, and road cycling guides for the area.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities available?
Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. The Hoover Dam and the High Scaler Statue at Hoover Dam are engaging for all ages. The Historic Railroad Trail is a relatively easy hike with interesting tunnels. Water activities on the lakes, such as swimming and paddleboarding, are also great for families. Hemenway Park in Boulder City is known for occasional bighorn sheep sightings, which can be exciting for children.
What are some scenic drives in the Lake Mead area?
Northshore Drive is highly recommended for its picturesque views of Lake Mead and the surrounding desert landscapes. The drive into the Lake Mead Recreation Area from Hoover Dam also offers numerous scenic vistas and photo opportunities. These drives provide a great way to experience the region's beauty from the comfort of your vehicle.
Where can I find the best viewpoints around Lake Mead?
For stunning panoramic views, visit Lakeview Overlook near the Hoover Dam, which offers vistas of the Boulder Basin, Hemenway Harbor, and surrounding mountain ranges. The Hoover Dam itself provides dramatic views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River. Many points along Northshore Drive also offer excellent scenic overlooks.
What is the best time of year to visit Lake Mead?
The best time to visit Lake Mead generally depends on your planned activities. Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring. Summers can be extremely hot, making water activities more appealing, but hiking trails to hot springs may be closed due to heat. Winters are mild and suitable for outdoor exploration without extreme heat.
Are there any unique geological formations to see?
Yes, Lake Mead National Recreation Area boasts several unique geological features. Owl Canyon is a narrow slot canyon known for its towering rock walls and unique formations. The Liberty Bell Arch is another striking natural arch, sculpted by erosion over time, showcasing the region's rich geological history.
Can I go hiking near the attractions?
Absolutely. There are several hiking opportunities. The Historic Railroad Trail, which follows old railroad tracks used during the Hoover Dam's construction, offers scenic views and impressive tunnels. The St. Thomas Ghost Town also has a loop trail with interpretive signage. For more options, check out the Hiking around Lake Mead guide, which includes routes like the Railroad Tunnel Trail and the Sunset View Scenic Overlook Trail.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The diverse desert ecosystems of Lake Mead National Recreation Area support a variety of wildlife. You might spot desert bighorn sheep, especially at Hemenway Park, coyotes, golden eagles, and various bird species. Owl Canyon is named for the barn owls that nest within its crevices. Keep an eye out for these creatures, particularly during dawn and dusk.
Are there facilities for camping or RVs?
Yes, Lake Mead offers extensive camping and RV sites. There are over 900 sites available throughout the recreation area, providing diverse options for overnight stays with scenic lake and desert views. Popular locations include Boulder Beach, Callville Bay, and Echo Bay, offering convenient access to the lake and other attractions.
What are the options for water sports and recreation?
Lake Mead and Lake Mohave are central to water-based recreation. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities including boating, jet skiing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For certified scuba divers, there are intriguing underwater sites, such as a crashed World War II Boeing B-29 Superfortress and a 'sunken city' that occasionally becomes visible during low water levels. Katherine Landing and Willow Beach on Lake Mohave are popular spots with facilities for rentals and water sports.
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