Take a break from Las Vegas to enjoy what nature has to offer

Recently, I had the chance to tackle the Goldstrike Hot Springs Trail, located just downstream from the Hoover Dam. This 5.5-mile out-and-back hike offered a mix of the mundane, the challenging, and the rewarding. It made for an overall worthwhile adventure, though not without its quirks.

To get to Goldstrike Hot Springs, take Interstate 11 east out of Las Vegas toward Boulder City. Exit right before you cross the Colorado River at Hoover Dam. Then, make your way to the parking lot off to the right. There are two lots – a lower and an upper parking lot. Don’t worry about find a spot. There is plenty of space.

The First Impression

To be honest, the trail’s beginning left a lot to be desired. Starting out under a towering highway bridge didn’t exactly scream “natural escape.” But as the trail wound its way down into a dry wash, things began to improve. The landscape narrowed, towering canyon walls rose around me, and the fun truly began.

Boulders, Ropes, and a Hint of Adventure

This trail is no walk in the park—literally. The path requires a fair bit of scrambling over and around massive boulders. Thankfully, ropes installed along the trail act as handholds to help navigate the tougher sections. While this adds a sense of adventure, it’s worth noting that this isn’t the most family-friendly hike unless your crew is strong and comfortable with a bit of climbing.

The Hot Springs

After the effort of scrambling, arriving at the hot springs felt like hitting a jackpot. The pools were warm and inviting, a perfect spot to soak and take in the beauty of the canyon. The springs weren’t overly crowded during my visit, but it’s clear this is a popular spot. Graffiti and general wear and tear on the trail speak to its frequent visitors.

Beyond the Springs: A Rewarding Finale

If you have the energy, hiking a little farther brings you to where the hot spring waters flow into the mighty Colorado River. This spot felt like a hidden gem. The views of the Colorado River were simply stunning.

Final Thoughts

Goldstrike Hot Springs Trail was an enjoyable hike with moments of frustration (looking at you, highway bridge). The climbing and scrambling kept things interesting, and the springs themselves were a delightful payoff. Overall, I’d rate this trail a solid 3.5 stars out of 5. It’s worth doing if you’re up for some boulder-hopping and don’t mind the signs of heavy use. No special gear is necessary, but be prepared for some physical effort.

Would I do it again? Yeah, probably. It’s a hot spring after all!

Photos of Goldstrike Hot Spring Trail