A desert canyon hike known for its ancient petroglyphs, dramatic rock formations, and rugged terrain tucked within the mountains near Laughlin.
How to Get There
From Laughlin (7–8 mi): Take NV‑163 west from Laughlin, then turn onto Christmas Tree Pass Road. Drive north on the unpaved road for a short distance and follow signs to the Grapevine Canyon trailhead and parking area.
Overview
The Grapevine Canyon hike offers a compelling mix of natural beauty and cultural history, set within the rugged desert terrain of the Newberry Mountains. The journey begins along a sandy wash that leads to the canyon’s entrance, where one of Southern Nevada’s most impressive collections of Native American petroglyphs can be found etched into the rock walls. These intricate carvings, some dating back centuries, provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s indigenous heritage and remain one of the primary draws for visitors to the area.
While many hikers stop after a short walk to view the petroglyphs, the canyon extends much farther, rewarding those who venture deeper with boulder scrambling, seasonal water features, and striking geological formations. The terrain transitions from an easy, family-friendly stroll into a more rugged experience as the canyon narrows and climbs, with occasional pools, granite cliffs, and desert vegetation adding to the sense of exploration. Despite its relatively short distance, Grapevine Canyon delivers a dynamic and memorable desert adventure shaped by both time and nature.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for Grapevine Canyon, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
