Shoreline Trail

The Shoreline Trail is an out-and-back hike along a portion of the Lake Mead edge that was once underwater, but these days a use trail has carved out a moderately easy path that leads visitors past several rock stacks and a scenic bend in the Las Vegas Wash.

The trail can be accessed from either the Las Vegas Bay parking area or the westernmost of The Cliffs parking areas. The Las Vegas Bay area has shade and bathrooms, and the former marina area has been demolished due to the water receding so much.

Hikers can find the trail by walking down the slope of the former concrete marina and turning east just before the bottom of the slope onto a rock-lined trail. The trail tends to stay at a fixed elevation above the shoreline and follows the curves of the landscape. Several other park trails can be accessed by heading up the dry washes that the Shoreline Trail intersects with. 

The highlights of the trail are the first portion that follows the Las Vegas Wash, including a scenic bend with waterfall rushing through a narrows in the wash canyon before meeting Lake Mead. Several sizable rock formations called the Pillars dot the edge of the hike. Small spur trails allow hikers to climb and explore these formations as well. 

There are a couple small slopes and several dry washes that the trail crosses. Aside from these areas, the route is clear and straightforward. The washes may change seasonally if following wet conditions.

The turnaround point to the hike is the opposite parking lot. Both parking areas offer shaded picnic benches. From the turnaround points, hikers can retrace their route back to their starting point.

Cel service is weak in this area. There is very little shade and no water available on the hike or at The Cliffs parking area.

This hike lies within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and is subject to park entry fees and rules.