Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Scenic views in Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Scenic Views and Rock Formations

This collection highlights prominent geological features and vantage points within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and the surrounding Mojave Desert. It includes natural sandstone sculptures like Elephant Rock, massive limestone cliffs such as the Stewart Cliffs and Hemenway Wall, and elevated overlooks providing views of the Colorado River, Black Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. These sites showcase the region’s arid landscape, volcanic history, and the dramatic intersection of desert terrain with the reservoir's shoreline.

Scenic Views and Rock Formations — Map

A

Elephant Rock

Natural red sandstone formation shaped like an elephant, located near the east entrance of Valley of Fire State Park.

B

Lakeview Overlook

Elevated vantage point near Boulder City offering panoramic views of the Boulder Basin and the surrounding desert mountain ranges.

C

Grand Canyon

Massive geological canyon carved by the Colorado River, featuring layered bands of red rock and extensive hiking trail systems.

D

Lake Mead Viewpoint

Roadside overlook providing views of the reservoir's expansive water surface and the rugged shoreline of the National Recreation Area.

E

Black Canyon Overlook

Viewpoint overlooking the steep volcanic walls of Black Canyon and the Colorado River downstream from the Hoover Dam.

F

Center Point

Prominent cliff formation located along the northern reaches of Lake Mead’s Overton Arm.

G

Cormorant Cliffs

Steep rock faces along the shoreline, often used as nesting sites for local water birds.

H

Stewart Cliffs

High limestone cliffs situated on the western side of the Overton Arm, visible from the water.

I

Big Gypsum Ledges

Distinctive geological terraces composed of gypsum deposits, located within the eastern portion of the recreation area.

J

The Temple

Massive rock monolith rising from the Virgin Basin, a prominent landmark for boaters on Lake Mead.

K

The Pillars

Vertical rock formations located near the Callville Bay area, showcasing the region's unique erosion patterns.

L

The Cliffs

Steep geological escarpments overlooking the western basins of Lake Mead.

M

Hemenway Wall

Large rock face near Boulder Beach frequently used for technical rock climbing and bighorn sheep sightings.

Other Lists

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