It’s peak hiking season in southern Nevada — the sun is out, but it’s not blazing hot yet. As people head outside, some trails will get crowded. The Outdoor Industry Association’s 2025 report showed that outdoor recreation participation grew 3% last year, to 181 million participants — a record high.
With so many people sharing the trail, who’s getting out there? And how can longtime hikers welcome them?
To discuss it, KNPR talked to Reannon Muth, an author, frequent contributor to our magazine, Desert Companion, and leader of groups focusing on family recreation; and Penny Harvey, associate professor of sociology at the California Institute of Integral Studies and the volunteer camp director for the nonprofit group Camp Pride Tree.
Muth and Harvey gave a variety of tips for attitudes and behaviors that can make hikers of all backgrounds and skill levels feel welcome. By and large, they added, there's great diversity Nevada's trails, where a spirit of inclusivity dominates.
Hikes they recommended include ...
For families:
North Ash Grove Loop at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
Lost Creek Trail, Red Rock
For easy to moderate hikers:
First Creek Canyon Trail at Red Rock
Calico Basin Trail at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
For anyone:
Valley of Fire State Park
Groups and activities to check out ...
Silent Hikes
Las Vegas Overweight Hikers for Health
Black People Hike LV
Camp Pride Tree
Guests: Reannon Muth, hiker, author and regular contributor to Desert Companion; Penny Harvey, camp director for The Pride Tree
