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Your ultimate destination.
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The
official Outdoor Nevada transport.
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Lava Butte & Sunrise Mountain Natural Area
Nestled behind Sunrise Mountain, this geocache is surprisingly close and very accessible. While just a short drive from North Las Vegas, the dramatic change of scenery from urban sprawl to remote wilderness is a welcome sight to anyone that doesn't want to spend the whole day driving.
Getting Started
Follow Lake Mead Blvd travelling East until you reach the edge of town. Continue driving for approximately 5.5 miles until you see a turnoff to the right leading into the foothills of Sunrise Mountain. (N36 11.149 W114 55.154). Lava Butte, the black-encrusted large peak over to your left is your ultimate destination, but feel free to explore the various backroads leading to Rainbow Gardens, and KodaChrome. They wind and twist throughout the area, allowing for exploration using almost any vehicle. Take note that roads can deteriorate over time with the heavy rains that sometimes frequent Las Vegas, so take care.
Continue veering left, and stay on the main road, which is the largest dirt road running mostly North-South. As Lava Butte nears, keep an eye out to your left. You will see a grouping of rocks on the side of a hill near the road which looks out of place in the surrounding desert. The geocache is about a 10 to 15 minute walk away in a large 5 gallon bucket. Be sure to sign the log book!
If you decide to go further, you WILL need a 4WD as the road goes from good to really bad very quickly past the Geocache location.
Other Great Spots!
If it's still early and you're looking for more adventure, check out some of these very interesting adventures nearby.
Gypsum Cave
N36 13.346 W114 54.054
An ancient cave formation and the location of many excavated fossils (like the three-toed sloth) near Lake Mead Drive. Take the Apex turnoff. Bring flashlights!
Hidden Picnic Tables
N36 07.461 W114 54.176
You can't see them from Lake Mead Drive, but they're there, and usually empty. An excellent spot for lunch during your geocache adventure.
Wetlands Hike
N36 12.399 W114 57.316
An excellent short hike within the Lake Mead area (access fee required). The Wetlands Hike permits viewing of a variety of wildlife, plants, and geological activity. Restrooms are available.
As always, when travelling anywhere in the desert, be sure to fill the gas tank, let others know where you are going, and bring plenty of water. Enjoy, and be sure to visit our website for more Outdoor Nevada adventures in the future!