Valley of Fire State Park essentials

Valley of Fire State Park preserves 46,000 acres of Aztec sandstone and limestone formations dating back to the Jurassic period. This selection highlights key geological landmarks like the swirling Fire Wave and the White Domes, alongside ancient history at Atlatl Rock's petroglyph panels. The park also features Depression-era stone cabins and a visitor center detailing the local Mojave Desert ecology and the history of the Ancestral Puebloan people.

Frank Kovalchek / CC BY 2.0

Mouse's Tank

It is a short hike back into the rocks and red sand. It is quite a hard walk through the soft stone but it is worth it.

John Fowler / CC BY 2.0

Fire Wave

A sandstone formation characterized by undulating layers of red, pink, and white stripes. The 1.5-mile round-trip trail leads to this geological feature, which resembles a frozen wave of multicolored rock.

Stan Shebs / CC BY-SA 3.0

White Domes

A 1.1-mile loop trail featuring contrasting white sandstone peaks, a narrow slot canyon, and the remains of a 1965 film set. The area showcases a diverse range of rock colors and desert vegetation.

John Fowler / CC BY 2.0

Silica Dome

A massive white sandstone formation that contrasts sharply with the surrounding red rock. It represents a high concentration of pure silica and offers panoramic views of the park’s northern geological boundaries.

John Fowler / CC BY 2.0

Pink Canyon

A narrow canyon of soft pastel-pink sandstone. Located near the Fire Wave, the area features smooth, water-carved walls and fine pink sand.

Elephant Rock

A natural sandstone arch located near the park's east entrance that resembles an elephant. A short 0.3-mile trail provides access to this distinct formation.

The Cabins

Three historic stone shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Constructed from native red sandstone, they served as early camping facilities for travelers.

Fire Canyon Overlook

A viewpoint offering a vista of the jagged red rock meeting the white silica domes. It highlights the contact point between different geological eras and sandstone layers.

John Fowler / CC BY 2.0

Valley of Fire Visitor Center

Features exhibits on the park's geology, ecology, and history, including information on the Basketmaker culture. It provides maps, water, and educational displays about the Mojave Desert.

Atlatl Rock

A massive boulder featuring a high concentration of ancient petroglyphs, including depictions of an atlatl, or spear-thrower. A metal staircase provides close-up access to the rock art panels.

Beehives Rock Formations

Unique sandstone mounds shaped by wind and water erosion into layers that resemble traditional beehives. These formations illustrate the process of cross-bedding in ancient sand dunes.