Quick Facts:

Location: Valley of Fire State Park

Coordinates: 36.42896771770426, -114.45793210301908

Length: .3 Miles

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: Less than 50’

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

If you love unique rock formations, Elephant Rock Trail in Valley of Fire State Park is a must-see. This short and easy hike leads to one of the most famous natural landmarks in Nevada, a sandstone arch that looks just like an elephant! Whether you’re stopping for a quick photo or looking for a fun, family-friendly hike, this trail is one of the park’s most popular attractions.

It’s a perfect roadside adventure for anyone driving through Valley of Fire or visiting Las Vegas and looking for a quick escape into nature. The rock itself is a natural wonder, formed by centuries of erosion, wind, and rain shaping the red sandstone into an uncanny resemblance of an elephant with a curved trunk.

How to Get There:

Valley of Fire is located about 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas. Take I-15 North to Exit 75, then follow Valley of Fire Highway into the park. The entrance fee is $10 per vehicle for Nevada residents and $15 for out-of-state visitors.

Parking Information:

The Elephant Rock Trailhead is at the east entrance of the park, just after the Valley of Fire Welcome Sign. There is a small parking area right near the trailhead, but since this is a popular spot, it can fill up quickly. If needed, you can park at the East Entrance Station parking lot and walk a short distance to the trail.

The Landscape:

The Elephant Rock Trail takes you through a classic Valley of Fire landscape, with towering red rock formations, rolling sandstone hills, and vast desert views. The real highlight, of course, is Elephant Rock itself, a delicate arch perfectly shaped like an elephant’s head and trunk.

As you hike, keep an eye out for interesting rock textures, small desert plants, and the occasional wildlife sighting. The sandstone here glows in the sunlight, changing shades from bright red to soft orange, making it a photographer’s dream.

Trail Difficulty & Length:

This is an easy, 0.3-mile round-trip hike. The trail is mostly flat with some sandy sections, making it accessible for most hikers, including kids and beginners. If you want a slightly longer adventure, you can connect it to the Valley of Fire Highway Loop, making it a 1.2-mile hike with additional scenic views.

One thing to note, climbing on Elephant Rock is not allowed. The formation is delicate, and standing on it can cause damage over time. Stick to the trail and take your photos from a safe distance!

Dog-Friendly?

Yes, dogs are allowed on the Elephant Rock Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. The desert terrain can be tough on paws, especially in hot weather. If you bring your dog, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and bring plenty of water for both of you.

Rules & Regulations:

Since Elephant Rock is one of the most famous formations in the park, it’s important to follow park rules to help preserve this natural wonder. Do not climb on the rock, as it is fragile and could eventually collapse from erosion.

Drones are not allowed in the park, and all trash must be packed out. Stay on designated trails to protect the desert ecosystem, and always be respectful of nature.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you have extra time, check out some of the other fantastic hikes in Valley of Fire. The Mouse’s Tank Trail is an easy, sandy walk through Petroglyph Canyon, where you can see ancient Native American rock carvings. The Fire Wave Trail is another must-see, leading to a swirling, striped rock formation that looks like an ocean wave frozen in stone.

For a longer adventure, hike the White Domes Loop, which features towering rock formations, a slot canyon, and remnants of an old Hollywood movie set.

Non-Hiking Attractions:

If hiking isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Valley of Fire. Take a scenic drive along Mouse’s Tank Road, stopping at overlooks like Rainbow Vista and Fire Canyon for breathtaking views. Visit Atlatl Rock, where you can climb a staircase to see ancient petroglyphs up close.

The Valley of Fire Visitor Center is another great stop, offering exhibits about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history. 

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Elephant Rock Trail is from October to April, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable. If you visit in the summer, be prepared for extreme heat—temperatures often exceed 100°F. If hiking in warmer months, go early in the morning or around sunset to avoid the heat.