Away from clusters of city lights, Nevada has vast open spaces, and they contain some amazing gems that many have yet to discover. In a remote area of the desert, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, is a fascinating archaeological area called Grimes Point. Though desolate now, this site has some well-preserved remnants of an ancient community in the Great Basin. These petroglyphs in Nevada give visitors a glimpse into the lives of indigenous people who called this place home thousands of years ago. If you love a sense of adventure, we think you’ll be interested in learning more about one of the best hikes in Nevada.

Grimes Point is located just east of Fallon, off of US-50, the so-called "Loneliest Road in America". This explains why so few have gotten to know about this amazing historical site despite its easy access from the road.
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This petroglyph hike in Nevada is short and fairly easy. Although it's just under half a mile, it does require an adventurous spirit to make the trip to see them.
If you venture out to visit Grimes Point and go on one of the best hikes in Nevada, you will find a paved parking area, with visitor information, a shaded sitting area, and a restroom.
Anitha Kapu/Google Local
This Nevada petroglyphs trail is well-maintained and marked, making this a relatively easy and enjoyable hike. Of course, you can hike beyond the petroglyphs too.
Kat Clement/Google Local
Petroglyphs are drawings or symbols carved, etched, or pecked into the surface of rocks and boulders. Many of the rocks themselves have a dark, polished look which is a phenomenon known as “desert varnish,” a natural occurrence resulting from a combination of minerals and the desert climate.
Tyler Martin/Google Local

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Explaining more than just the history of humans in this remote place, or at least what is known of it, signs along this petroglyph hike in Nevada also help visitors visualize a very different landscape that once existed here.
Tom/Google Local
Signs along what's considered one of the best hiking trails in Nevada have also been put in place to guide the way and provide a little education that truly adds to one’s appreciation of the well-preserved rock art in this place, as well as the scientific efforts that have been made to learn about the people who made it.
Archaeologists have identified these Nevada petroglyphs as drawings rather than a form of writing. While these ancient etchings have been preserved, their meanings are a mystery to modern explorers.
John “Wally”/Google Local
As you explore the area around the trail, you discover drawings scattered on rocks and boulders throughout the area, so keep your eyes peeled.
While imagining the lives of the people who inhabited this area a long time ago, you just might catch sight of some of the area’s current residents.
Gavin Clark/Google Local
There is also another trail to the “hidden cave,” an ongoing dig site that was apparently an ancient Paiute-Shoshone storage site. Visitors can view the cave opening from the trail or explore the cave on one of the Bureau of Land Management’s free tours.
Jody Kale/Google Local

While looking at these ancient petroglyphs in the Great Basin, can you imagine the lives of this land’s early inhabitants? Did you know these Nevada petroglyphs were here? Have you had the chance to see them? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the following comments section.

If you’d like to explore some more, we suggest checking out these best hikes in Nevada. We also recommend referencing AllTrails when you’re wondering, “Where can I find the best hikes near me?” Our ultimate packing list will help you prepare for your next outdoor adventure, too.

 

 

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Best Hikes in Nevada

Marla S. | February 15, 2024

What are some of the best hikes in Nevada?

Here are some of the best hikes in Nevada:

  • Monkey Rock near Incline Village-Crystal Bay: Enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Lake Tahoe when you hike this 2.6-mile intermediate-level trail.
  • White Domes Trail in Overton: Explore this looped mile-long trail when you're planning to spend time in Valley of Fire State Park. Your leashed dog is welcome to join you too!
  • Van Sickle Rim Trail Connector in Stateliness: As you hike this popular out-and-back trail, you'll see wildflowers, wildlife, and epic views of Lake Tahoe.

 

To help you get the most out of your hiking adventure, we suggest taking a look at our ultimate hiking guide for tips and ideas on what to bring on your next outdoor outing.

What are some of the best family-friendly hikes near me?

Take a look at some of the best family-friendly hikes in Nevada:

  • Floyd Lamb Tule Springs Park Trail in Las Vegas: As you stroll along this looped trail that's just under a mile, enjoy watching people fish at the ponds along the hike.
  • Mountain View Nature Trail in Great Basin National Park: This short and sweet trail is a great spot to introduce your children to nature.
  • Cave Rock Trail in Glenbrook: Kids of all ages seeking adventure will love climbing up this trail that leads to epic views of Lake Tahoe.

 

 

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