BOULDER CITY, Nev. - To help keep visitors safe, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area is instituting seasonal closures to some areas and trails from May 15 to Sept. 30, 2021. The temporary closures are in response to serious safety concerns related to summer heat effects to visitors. Excessive heat is the #1 weather-related killer in Arizona, Nevada, and California.
The closed areas are remote with little or no shade and the closed trails have sections of strenuous hiking with some requiring bouldering and climbing. Closures in the park effective on May 15, 2021 are:
• Goldstrike Canyon
• White Rock Canyon and White Rock Canyon Trail
• Arizona Hot Springs and the Arizona Hot Springs Trail
• Liberty Arch Trail
During the closure, visitors can still access the hot springs near White Rock Canyon that are accessible from the Colorado River. The River Mountains Loop Trail and Historic Railroad Trail are remaining open.
“People can miscalculate their ability to hike these strenuous trails in the summer, which may put themselves and rescue personnel at risk if they need help," said Mike Reynolds acting superintendent, Lake Mead National Recreation Area. “These areas will re-open in the fall, when temperatures are cooler."
Hiking is discouraged during the summer months. Those who choose to hike are encouraged to follow summer safety tips found online at http://www.nps.gov/lake/planyourvisit/summer-hiking.htm.
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Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the only national park minutes from Las Vegas that offers Joshua trees, slot canyons and night skies illuminated by the Milky Way. The park’s rocks are as red as fire and the mountains are purple majesties. Lake Mead is the country’s first and largest national recreation area and the fifth most visited national park in the country. Follow us at www.nps.gov/lake or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
