Cathedral Rock Trail
- Physical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
- Technical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
This stunning, popular hike in the Spring Mountains leads up a handful of switchbacks to a rocky promontory, granting sunning panoramic views of the park. The wide, well graded trail is easy to follow.
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Route Description for Cathedral Rock Trail
The trail begins between the upper and lower parking areas, besides the large informational sign. Immediately the trail begins to slowly gain elevation. You will pass by a handful of beautiful wooden signs – always follow the arrow pointing towards Cathedral Rock.
As the path continues you will start to switchback and gain more elevation. The trail will soon enter an avalanche chute with many young trees. When we last did the hike (early in the season), there was a ton of deadfall scattered over the trail. That being said, this never made the path hard to follow.
After switchbacking up for a ways, the trail will traverse to the right and you will continue towards the clear rocky promontory. As you approach the point you will have only a handful of more switchbacks to do before cresting the summit.
From the top of the climb, you will feel like you are able to see the entire park! Looking down you can see the quaint Old Town, and Charleston Peak will dominate the view to your left. To your right, you will see the valley and the road you came in on, as well as the desert in the distance. Additionally, behind you to your right you can see Griffith Peak. Rest here before making your way down to the car.
Check out more amazing hikes around Las Vegas:
Insider Hints for Cathedral Rock Trail
- This hike can be very snowy in the early season. Phone the visitor centre before committing to the drive from Las Vegas.
- Certainly not a hike to forget your camera for!
Getting to the Cathedral Rock Trail Trailhead
From Las Vegas follow Route 95 North until just after you pass the city limits. From here watch out for signs towards Nevada 157 and Mt. Charleston. Turn left here and continue along this gradually climbing road for just over 33.8 km, almost till the end of the road. Turn right into the Cathedral Rock Trailhead (signposted as such) to find the large paved parking area.
Route Information
Cathedral Rock Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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