Want to escape the heat and hustle of the Vegas Strip? Within an hour’s drive of Vegas, you can find yourself surrounded by bountiful nature on Mt. Charleston. Cathedral Rock on Mt. Charleston is the perfect hike to connect with nature and experience gorgeous views.
About an hour from the heart of Las Vegas, this trail is high in the mountains above the heat of the desert and is an easy to follow trail that most levels of hikers could complete.
The summit boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below.
I’ve hiked Cathedral Rock multiple times and led group hikes here. It’s one of my favorite things to do when I visit Las Vegas.
I’m happy to report that everybody that I ever brought on this trail, whether they had prior hiking experience or not, was able to reach the summit and complete the trail.
What Makes Cathedral Rock a Good Trail?
I recommend this hike to people visiting and have hiked it myself a lot for multiple reasons.
- There is a large parking lot and I’ve never had trouble finding a parking space.
- Bathrooms present at the trail head (always a plus).
- The trail is clearly marked and maintained.
- It’s dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends.
- The intensity is moderate with a 971-foot elevation gain, which isn’t too challenging for most people if you regularly walk/exercise.
Basics For Hiking Cathedral Rock on Mt. Charleston
Cathedral Rock on Mt. Charleston is a 2.7-mile trail that is ranked as moderately intense. There are parts of the trail towards the summit with loose rock and a steeper incline. Generally, it’s fairly easy to walk and navigate.
The location of the trailhead is approximately 7,600 feet above sea level and is physically located at 1208 Cathedral Picnic Area, Mt Charleston, NV 89124, which is approximately an hour drive from the Las Vegas strip.
When you drive to the trailhead, there is a clear sign on the road that indicates it is Cathedral Rock. The trailhead is well-marked and is adjacent to a parking lot. The parking lot has bathroom access and a water faucet.
The trail itself is well-marked.
There are a couple of places on the bottom of the trail where the path splits.
However, there are well-marked arrows that point to the Cathedral Rock trail. Follow the trail up the mountain. There are several benches along the way where you can sit and relax and enjoy beautiful views as you go up the trail.
The trail starts with a steady grade incline and then flattens out a bit towards the middle of the hike. The very end of the trail is a series of switchbacks that take you to the summit.
About halfway up the trail, you will notice an old road that splits to the left behind a bench. Per my research on the trail, there is a waterfall up that road. My group did not search for the waterfall, so I cannot say with any certainty if it is there or not.
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How Long Does It Take To Hike Cathedral Rock?
Generally speaking, I estimate it takes most hikers about 40-60 minutes to make it to the top of Cathedral Rock and less time to descend.
I would recommend spending at least 20 minutes at the top to check out the views and giving yourself around 2 hours to do the trail if you are a moderate hiker.
The trail time can definitely be shorter if you are in great physical shape or longer if you need to stop for more rest breaks along the way.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Hike Cathedral Rock?
Mt. Charleston receives snowfall, and thus the trail can be closed in the winter. Depending on the amount of snow, the parking lot may still be open, and you could hike with snowshoes/spikes. I tried hiking Cathedral Rock once in November and the trailhead and parking lot were closed entirely due to snow.
Typically, Cathedral Rock is accessible from June through November. This will vary based on the winter and snowfall levels. During a milder winter, you may be able to hike it in April and May.
What Should I Bring With Me To Hike Cathedral Rock?
- Water
- Snack
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Hiking Essentials Kit
- Head lamp, if hiking at night/dawn/dusk
- Poles, if wanted
High Elevation Consideration
The Cathedral Rock trail is generally easy to find, easy to follow, and not a hard incline or descent for experienced hikers.
The most challenging part of this hike physically may be the high level of elevation.
The trail begins at 7,500 feet above sea level, and you gain another 971 feet during the hike.
The high elevation causes the oxygen in the air to be thinner and can make it harder for you to breathe as you complete the hike.
This can lead to increased sun exposure and dehydration.
My recommendation is to drink water as you climb the hike and to bring extra water if you are not used to hiking in high elevations. Also, take your time and go at a comfortable pace.
Conclusions: Cathedral Rock on Mt. Charleston
Cathedral Rock on Mt. Charleston is a well-maintained, easy to follow trail located about an hour from the Las Vegas strip.
The views at the summit are beautiful and photo-worthy.
It is good for groups, dogs, and newer hikers who have good cardio endurance! It is not a technically challenging hike, although the high elevation and steady incline can be challenging.
Bring extra water and sun protection.
Enjoy and happy trails!
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