We were excited to check out White Owl Canyon at Lake Mead based on the photos we found online, but they really didn’t capture the splendor of this hidden gem.
Our verdict is that this is arguably the most unique hike in the Lake Mead area. It’s the perfect blend of a manageable distance and an ever-changing landscape with a variety of fun obstacles like towering slot canyons and industrial tunnels to keep you entertained the whole way through.
Is hiking the White Owl Canyon Trail worth it?
What we liked:
- The expansive views of the Lake Mead Area, including a few spots you can still see the lake
- The slot canyons were fun to explore (though hard to photograph)
- There’s a few creepy tunnels you must traverse to keep going on the journey, it’s a unique experience
- Finding seashells along the trail is an unexpected treat
What we didn’t like
- The trail was a bit challenging to follow and we recommend taking an offline trail map with you (we use Alltrails, but there are many options)
- We didn’t get to see any wildlife or owls on our visit
Trail Details and Route Description
The trail starts at the first parking lot to your left as you enter the 33 Hole Road. You’re first met with a picnic area and some warning signs about the trail (not to mention a fabulous view of the canyon).
Even though this trail is rated as moderate, there’s only a couple spots on the trail that give hikers a pause, and the first is the steep trail down to the Valley floor. It’s slick due to the loose gravel and steep incline. Watch your footing as you head down.
After making your way down the steep incline, the path widens out and takes you towards the first set of canyons this trail is known for.
The first set of canyons you’ll come across is arguably the most impressive. Towering above you on all sides, the path slopes gently through the canyon
Asian Clams at White Owl Canyon
You may be surprised to find hundreds of white shells dotting the landscape throughout your hike.
The shells are a type of Asian fresh water clam that were thought to have been accidentally introduced to Lake Mead back in the 1960s. The clams are believed to have been transported to the U.S. over 100 years ago and slowly spread across the country. They are considered an invasive species.
At one point, much of the White Owl Canyon trail was underwater and as the lake receded the clam shells were left behind. You can read more about the clams arrival here.
Spotting the elusive Great Horned Owls
A huge draw to visiting the canyons is a chance to spot see some great horned owls (or barn owl), which make their home in the area.
Unfortunately, no owls were out and about the day we were there, but you can see a great horned owl we found in Floyd Lamb Park.
Culverts on the trail
Throughout the trail you’ll find several culverts that go underneath the main road in the area.
For anyone who has seen the classic horror movie “The Cube” that came out in the late 90s, you’ll know you’re finally going to make it out of the maze. Just walk into the light…
At least this tunnel has a happy ending, as it leads to a gorgeous canyon of red rocks!
When you see the red rocks on your left, be on the look out for a nondescript rock arrow on the ground. When you see the arrow, follow it!
We saw a couple standing by the arrow (which leads uphill to towards a bike path), and they looked pretty tired. We found out instead of turning at the arrow, they kept going straight towards some hills. They ran into a dead-end and had to back-track.
After heading up the hill, you’ll intersect with a very nice bike path (which traces Lake Mead). Be sure to turn left (North East), which is a little counterintuitive.
You’ll only be on the bike path about 0.25 miles before hanging a right to get back on the main trail.
Once you’re back on the trail, you get to enjoy the second set of canyons. This one includes some rocky terrain and an area where you have to climb down a 8-10 ft rock wall (this is the second area that makes this a moderate hike). It was pretty easy to navigate, but may give some less nimble hikers a bit of trouble (unfortunately I missed getting a picture of the area).
On the back side of the trail, you’ll be met with an expansive view of the valley with Lake Mead in the background and large rock formations.
The final stretch of the trail leads back to join the original path. In the distance is the final path that leads back to the parking lot.
What to Expect on the Trail
Trail Stats
| Round Trip Mileage | ~3.6 Miles |
| Elevation Gain | ~225′ |
| Parking Lot | Owl Canyon Trailhead, Boulder City, NV 89005 |
| Highest Elevation | 1425′ |
| Average Time | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Entrance Fees | $25 Day pass or America the Beautiful Pass (Pricing subject to change) |
Related: Watch the video of our experience at White Owl Canyon.
Know before you go
- The trail is not well marked and it’s easy to get turned around. We recommend downloading a map you can use offline with GPS coordinates to ensure you don’t go off route. Alltrails.com has a great app you can use. Some features are free to use and others require an annual subscription. The free version worked for us on this trail about 50% of the time. The cell service was spotty and we needed that to see the map.
- The parking lot was about 25% full when we arrived around 10 a.m. on a Saturday. We believe the distance from Vegas, the national park fee and the cooler weather kept the crowds down.
- Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they are kept on a leash (no more than 6 feet long). Keep in mind if you take your pup, they may struggle on a few areas of the trail that required a moderate scramble down a 8-10 foot rock wall.
- There are no services nearby this trail, so be sure to bring your own food, water and the 10 hiking essentials.
How to get to the Trailhead
The White Owl Canyon Hike is located at: 33 Hole Overlook, Boulder City, NV 89005, inside the Lake Mead National Park.
The trailhead is approximately 29 miles from the Las Vegas strip and can be reached in about 35 minutes.
You’ll need an America the Beautiful Pass to enter the park or pay the $25 entry fee for a day pass (good for 7 days).
Activities Nearby
- Nevada: The Best Hikes near Lake Mead
- Nevada: Exploring the Liberty Bell Arch near Lake Mead
- Nevada: Best city view hiking trail near Las Vegas
- Nevada: Reasons to visit the Historic Railroad trail hike on Lake Mead
- Nevada: Beyond the strip, a nature lovers guide to Vegas
- Nevada: A Local’s Guide to Hiking in Las Vegas