Prospect Trail, NV

The south end of Prospect Trail is on the north side of Valley of Fire Highway, just east of Atlatl Rock.


The first half of the Prospect Trail, to the first of the dryfalls, alternates between jeep trail and foot trail. It’s the same path, it just gets wider and narrower at different points. Probably due to erosion. Whether foot trail or jeep trail, the surface is rarely an issue. If it wasn’t chained off, you could probably drive it in your car.

From the pump house access road, Prospect Trail begins a gradual climb of 200 ft. in ¾ of a mile. As you get closer to the saddle, the main orange cliff / mountain gets closer to the trail. Wild orange outcroppings are closer yet.

I've been to Valley of Fire twice, and have seen Bighorn Sheep both times. Keep an eye out!

The first dryfall is two miles north on Prospect Trail. It is so small — maybe three feet — that it hardly counts. Yet, it is noted on the park maps.

Over the next 1.5 miles, the Prospect Trail alternates the occasional dryfall with wash walking. There are only two real dryfalls: The first, just after entering the wash, at 10-12 ft., is smaller & trickier than the second. It is bypassed to the right, via some rather slippery slick rock. The second, about 18-20 ft., could be downclimbed by an experienced hiker, but there is an official white pole bypass to the right.

The wash walking varies from usually gravelly, to sandy or rocky. There are a number of side washes, but you should rarely be out of sight of the next white guide pole.

Past the larger dryfall, the orange formations generally give way to white and mustard rock, often laced with pink and purple bands.

4.4 miles into the hike, turn right / east into a short slot canyon. You will probably hear voices, and soon see many signs. That is White Dome Loop, and the end of Prospect Trail.

Check out the Official Route and Triplogs.

Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.

2018-12-29 kingsnake