Mount Charleston National Forest

When most people think of visiting Nevada, the first places that come to mind are the big gambling Meccas, notably Reno, Laughlin and of course, Las Vegas. However, by venturing a little further from city limits, visitors to Nevada can enjoy the beauty of nature; for beyond the initial lifeless desert mirage lies a truly majestic landscape teeming with all forms of life.

Convenient location

Visitors headed to Vegas need only look 35 miles northwest to escape the bright lights of the city. Spanning the picturesque Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Mount Charleston Wilderness and the Spring Mountains National Park areas of southern Nevada, is Charleston Peak, locally known as Mount Charleston, and the highest peak in the Spring Mountain range.

A natural oasis

The Mount Charleston Wilderness is in the heart of the Spring Mountains, which get its name from the numerous natural springs found there. These important water sources have turned this area into an oasis from the surrounding desert landscape. Home to 18,000 acres of Bristlecone pine, this area also supports Rocky Mountain Elk, wild horses and burros, bear and any other species of flora and fauna.

Things to do

Find miles of trails perfect whether you are visiting for a day, or planning to stay longer. Over 200 campsites are available, as well as cabins if you prefer not to "rough it." Daytrippers can enjoy convenient picnic locations along a very scenic drive and anglers appreciate the multitude of locations where they can cast their lines. In the winter, Mount Charleston is a haven for the winter sports enthusiast, with locations for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowmobiling and even snowshoeing.

Whether you are a local to the area looking for a place to escape the city for the day, or an out-of-towner looking to experience Nevada away from The Strip, take the time to explore the natural wonder of Mount Charleston.