Valley of Fire State Park

Red sandstone, an hour from the Strip

Hours: Park until sunset; visitor center 9am-4pm
Address: Valley of Fire Highway, about an hour by car from Las Vegas

An hour by car and the desert turns red. Sandstone glows orange and crimson in the sun, and short walks from roadside pull-offs lead to rock arches and old petroglyphs. Early autumn to spring is best for walking. Midday has almost no shade, so carry plenty of water.