Lava Butte Road

Located just east of Vegas, in the Sunrise Mountain Special Recreation Management Area, Lava Butte is an 8-mile, point-to-point trail that slowly weaves through the scenic mountain and brightly colored canyon landscape formed by magma 13 million years ago. Despite the name, Lava Butte was not formed from a lava eruption but rather from a blister-like magma chamber that uplifted and became exposed due to erosion. The dark appearance of the butte is from desert varnish, a natural dark patina that forms from weathering and concentration of iron and manganese oxides on the rock's surface. The road surface is generally hard-packed clay with short sections of small rocks ranging in size from golf balls to baseballs. Along the drive, you will encounter several gradual grades that are prone to washouts during and after heavy rain events. Although a high clearance vehicle is recommended, 2WD is sufficient during dry conditions. This trail can be run in either direction and can be run by itself or combined with one of the other nearby roads to create a full loop.

Camping is prohibited along this trail or any road within the Sunrise Mountain Special Recreation Management Area. The closest camping resides east, within Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Large trailheads on each end of the trail provide great areas for trailer parking or airing up/down.