Clark County Wetlands Park, a 2900 acre park, is the largest park in Las Vegas. Established in 1991, the park parallels the Las Vegas Wash and provides hiking, wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities. The Wash is an "urban river", it's flow a combination of urban runoff, reclaimed water, shallow groundwater and storm runoff. The wetlands associated with this park act as filters which clean the water, creating an aesthetic environment for outdoor activities and enhanced wildlife habitat.

The 14 mile "Wetlands Loop" trail travels along the north side of the Wash (approx. 6 "river" miles) ultimately crossing then returning along the south side. Although not a true loop, the trail is accessible from multiple trail-heads, all but 1 lying south of the Wash. These trail-heads provide access points with picnic facilities and restrooms. Unpaved sections of this trail allow hiking and equestrian activities, with all sections permitting hiking, bike riding and leashed dogs.

The Wetlands Park Nature Preserve (210 acres) lies within and on the westerly side of the Clark County Wetlands Park. The preserve features 3 miles of paved accessible pedestrian paths, including a self-guided tour route (not fully paved). Within the preserve are a half-dozen named ponds, many accessible via the paved pathways. On the northeast side of the preserve, the "Weir Bridge" crosses over the Las Vegas Wash providing views of the area and access to the "Wetlands Loop" trail.

  

The preserves' "Nature Center" features an Exhibit Hall, Auditorium, Restrooms and a Indoor Picnic Cafe' (nice on hot days). Here you can get maps, brochures and information from staff members. The "Nature Center" is open 9am - 4pm (closed some holidays) with the preserve open daily dawn to dusk. Additional picnic facilities with restrooms and bicycle access to the "Wetlands Loop" trail are available in the "Neighborhood Park" area on the southwest side of the preserve.

Within the preserve hiking is your only option (ADA accessible options are available). No bicycles, horses or dogs are allowed (with the exception of bicycle access from the "Neighborhood Park" area to the "Wetlands Loop" trail). Avoid drinking, touching or wading in the parks streams or ponds as water within the park is from reclaimed urban sources and not for human contact.

The "Wetlands Park" area boasts ample wildlife viewing opportunities. Species include: wetland birds such as Great Blue Heron, Mallards and American Coot along with desert bird species including Sparrow, Finch, Quail and Dove. Look to the skies for Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Harrier, Turkey Vulture and Swallows. Mammals include Cottontail, Jackrabbits and Ground Squirrels (Raccoon and Beaver are around, this being the only place to see them in the Vegas area). Other animals of note: Soft-shell Turtles, Sliders, Crayfish and Tropical Aquarium Fish (some Bluegill and Bass) can be seen in the parks waters. Lizards and Dragonfly are also abundant. If your lucky, you might see a Roadrunner or Coyote.
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Wetlands Park Map: click here
  

Tips:
Best wildlife viewing in early morning or late afternoon / early evening. Bring your camera with a telephoto lens if available. Wear comfortable shoes, have sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Remember water and keep snacks / food off the trails of the "Nature Preserve".
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nearby: Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve

Address:
7050 E. Wetlands Park Lane
Las Vegas, Nv.

Directions:
From S. Las Vegas Blvd (the Strip) head east for 7.9 miles on E. Tropicana Ave. Turn left on E. Wetlands Park Lane traveling 0.4 miles to the end of road and a cul-de-sac. Veer left into the Wetlands Park Nature Preserve Visitor Center parking area. Return by reversing route.