A view of Mount Charleston from Mary Jane Falls
Las Vegas is a city full of excitement, after all it is the city of entertainment. Everyday Las Vegas holds the key to many wonderful shows, dining options, and recreational activities throughout The Strip. For many people, The Strip is all they think about when they think about Las Vegas but what about everything else this city has to offer. We are so oblivious to the fact that this city is home to one of the most beautiful sights this state has to offer, Mount Charleston.
Over the past few years, I have become obsessed with taking random hiking trips to Mount Charleston and recently I hiked to Mary Jane Falls. This trail has become one of my favorites. The trail travels through ponderosa pines, aspens, white fir, and cascading waterfalls offering many hikers a unique sight. During my recent trip to Mount Charleston I was able to capture many of these scenic views and even some cave writings from previous hikers.
Cave writings from previous hikers at Mary Jane Falls
After viewing these photos you might be wondering, "What does it take to see these sightings first hand?" And to answer your question, it just takes a passion to see something new and exciting. Here are some tips for your next or your first hiking trip. First of check out, Hiking Las Vegas, a blog that provides different tips, clothing, shoes, trails, and photographs of hikes throughout Las Vegas. Find of group of friends to go hiking with. Hiking is always more fun when you go with a group of friends, together you can experience the thrill of completing a hike and enjoy what nature has to offer. A day trip to Mount Charleston is a great way get some exercise, build relationships, and most of all see some amazing sights.
Prepare for your next trip by having the right gear and supplies. Mary Jane Falls is a short but strenuous hike therefore, make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Hiking shoes are preferable but tennis shoes will also do the job. Wear a comfortable pair of pants or shorts, the last thing you want to be worried about is your clothing. Take a light jacket with you during the spring and summer months. Make sure you packs lots of water and some energy bars or some fruit to keep you energized. You have to stay hydrated throughout the hike if you don't this it will only make the hike painful instead of enjoyable. And most of all enjoy the trail. It isn't always about the finish, everything leading up to the finish should also be a part of the experience that's why it's called a "hike" to the top, not just the finish at the top.
If you end up loving hiking just as much as I do, take the next step and join Meetup Group. Meetup Groups allow hikers alike to go experience the wilderness together. These groups do a lot crazy and insane hikes but it is a great way to network with people who love to explore Las Vegas outside The Strip.