
Cathedral Rock Trail
Iconic red rock hike with breathtaking summit views, waterfalls, and a sense of spiritual energy.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Cathedral Rock Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic red rock hike with breathtaking summit views, waterfalls, and a sense of spiritual energy.
"Stunning views await at the top of this rewarding, moderate-plus hike."

💧 Hydration is Key
Pack more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months. Stay hydrated to enjoy the hike!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While some find sneakers manageable, hiking boots offer better grip and ankle support for this elevation gain.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.9 · 484 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Address
Website
gomtcharleston.comHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Summit Views
Top of Cathedral Rock
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the surrounding red rock formations and valleys. A true reward for your climb.

Cascading Waterfalls
Along the trail
Discover serene waterfalls that offer a refreshing sight and a chance to refill water bottles. A delightful surprise on your hike.

Avalanche Chute
Mid-trail
Witness the raw power of nature in the avalanche chute, a stark reminder of the mountain's dynamic forces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pack Smart for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Mt Charleston Hiking - First Timer Seeking Advice
Hey All. Lived in Vegas six years, but never hiked in the Mt Charleston area. Looking for advice. Mostly looking for trail recommendations (simple/beginner trails) but any other advice is appreciated! What to expect, other things to do, etc... Thanks!
💧 Hydration is Key
Pack more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months. Stay hydrated to enjoy the hike!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While some find sneakers manageable, hiking boots offer better grip and ankle support for this elevation gain.
Anybody know some good spots for hiking at Mount Charleston?
I just moved here, and I want to go out there soon. Has anybody gone on any good trails or routes and want to share? I would also enjoy some company, provided we can go on some tougher routes.
Tips for visiting Mt Charleston?
My husband and I want to take our 2 dogs up to Mt. Charleston to mostly see the snow and maybe a some hiking. We are new to Henderson (and Nevada). Is there a a drive or place I can put in my phone maps that anyone recommends? We just aren't familiar with the area or driving in…
⏰ Go Early or Late
To avoid the peak crowds and the hottest part of the day, start your hike at sunrise or a few hours before sunset.
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep this beautiful trail pristine by taking all your trash with you. Leave no trace!
Is Cathedral Rock hike-able in sneakers in late March?
Hi awesome locals! I want to take my friend hiking at Cathedral Rock in two weekends, but I've never been to Mt Charleston in the winter. I know the Cathedral Rock trailhead parking lot is closed in the winter, but the trail can still be accessed via Echo Trailhead. I am just…
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Hydration is Key
Pack more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months. Stay hydrated to enjoy the hike!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While some find sneakers manageable, hiking boots offer better grip and ankle support for this elevation gain.
⏰ Go Early or Late
To avoid the peak crowds and the hottest part of the day, start your hike at sunrise or a few hours before sunset.
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep this beautiful trail pristine by taking all your trash with you. Leave no trace!
🥾 Moderate Plus Difficulty
The elevation gain is significant. Take your time, use the benches, and enjoy the journey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cathedral Rock Trail for its absolutely stunning views and rewarding summit experience. The well-maintained path and the presence of waterfalls add to its charm. While the elevation gain is noted as challenging, many find it manageable with a steady pace and ample breaks. A common point of concern is the limited parking, which can lead to frustration for those arriving later in the day.
"Wonderful hike. Well maintained and marked path with stellar views through out. I am quite out of shape so the difficulty level was just right. Took my time with many breaks on the way up and it was a breeze on the way down."
Andrew Birch
"This is one of my favorite hikes. I found this hike to be moderate Plus. The thousand foot elevation gain is no joke. Take it slow and steady to enjoy the view and feeling of accomplishment. So many beautiful sights along the way. The path is lined with stones. Several benches for those needing an extra break. It rained about 20% up for us and the smell was out of this world. The sent of pine and flowers was strong. I brought a backpack with water, fruit, and a couple other small bites to have a nice small lunch at the peak. The last push there were lots of stairs at a hefty grade but it was well worth it. Please please please don't litter, on our way back we picked up numerous water bottles people just discarded. This hike is beautiful, we all need to pitch in and keep it that way. I highly recommend going."
Scott Burgess
"This is an amazing hike. The views are stunning on this hike, especially at the top. The hike itself isn’t too long, although there is lots of elevation gain. If it is hot in Las Vegas, it will be cooler here. There are also a few very big pine trees on this hike! Also, don’t forget to visit the waterfall, it is nice to see and maybe refill water bottle. Overall, very nice!"
Ryan Robertson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main Cathedral Rock trailhead parking lot can close in winter, requiring access via the Echo Trailhead. Always check current conditions. The trail is also accessible from the Baldwin Trailhead and Templeton Trailhead, offering different starting points for your hike.
Parking is available at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead, but it fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Consider arriving early or using alternative trailheads like Echo or Baldwin if parking is full.
Information on shuttle services can vary. It's best to check local tourism websites or park advisories for the most up-to-date shuttle options to the Cathedral Rock Trailhead or nearby access points.
The Cathedral Rock Trailhead is typically accessed via [Specific Road Name/Highway]. For precise directions, use GPS or a mapping app, and be aware that parking lot closures can affect the most direct route.
Generally, dogs are not permitted on the Cathedral Rock Trail to protect the fragile environment and wildlife. Always verify local regulations before bringing pets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, typically there is no admission fee or ticket required to hike the Cathedral Rock Trail. However, parking fees may apply at some trailheads.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific trailhead access might be restricted during certain seasons or for maintenance.
The trail is usually accessible year-round, but winter conditions like snow can make parts of it challenging or temporarily inaccessible. The trailhead parking lot may also close in winter.
For day hiking, permits are typically not required for Cathedral Rock Trail. However, if you plan on overnight camping in the vicinity, you would need to secure the appropriate permits.
Hiking the Cathedral Rock Trail itself is free. Parking fees may apply at the trailhead, so it's wise to have some cash or check for payment options.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Cathedral Rock hike is generally considered moderate to moderate-plus due to a significant elevation gain of about 1,000 feet over a relatively short distance. It involves some steep sections and rocky terrain.
The Cathedral Rock Trail is an out-and-back trail that is approximately 2.7 miles roundtrip. The length combined with the elevation gain makes it a good workout.
The Cathedral Rock Trail has an elevation gain of roughly 1,000 feet. This contributes to its moderate-plus difficulty rating.
Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding red rock landscape, valleys, and distant mountains are found throughout the trail, with the most spectacular vistas at the summit.
Restroom facilities are usually available at the main Cathedral Rock Trailhead, which is convenient for hikers before or after their trek.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography. The soft light enhances the colors of the red rocks and creates beautiful shadows.
The summit provides incredible panoramic shots. Other great spots include the waterfalls, the avalanche chute, and various viewpoints along the trail that capture the unique rock formations.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Cathedral Rock Trail. However, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can offer more flexibility for landscape shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits, so it's best to check with local authorities if you plan professional shoots.
At the top, you can capture sweeping vistas of the surrounding canyons, mesas, and the vast desert landscape. It's an ideal location for wide-angle landscape photography and capturing the scale of the environment.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit