Last updated: March 22, 2025
Thing to Do
Hike the Historic Railroad Trail
NPS/A. Cattoir
In 1931, the federal government partnered with Six Companies, Inc., a group of six major western construction firms, to build nearly 30 miles of railroad connecting the Hoover Dam and Boulder City. The route was essential in the dam's construction as it allowed workers to move materials and resources from nearby cement mixing and gravel sorting plants and the quarry pits to build the dam.
The railroad tracks were dismantled in 1962. The current multi-use trail was established in 1992 and connection to the Hoover Dam in 2007. Today the trail, perfect for hikers and bikers, features incredible vistas of Lake Mead and Boulder Basin and five tunnels – each approximately 25 feet wide.
The trail is made of level hardpacked fine gravel. Due to high temperatures (100-115 degrees Fahrenheit/38-46 degrees Celsius) in summer and no shade for the first 1.5 miles, this trail is not recommended in summer.
Trail Information
- Trailhead: DIRECTIONS
- Parking: Parking lot located below the Lake Mead Visitor Center on Lakeshore Rd.
- Distance: 3.7-mile one way / 7.5 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 11 ft. elevation change
- Difficulty: Easy
- THIS TRAIL IS MAINTAINED
- Services: Accessible pit toilets at the trailhead, self-service bike repair station, trash/litter receptacles.
Details
Duration
1-4 Hours
Duration represents the time it would take to complete the entire trail roundtrip.
Activity
Front-Country Hiking
- Drinking water is available at the nearby Lake Mead Visitor Center.
Pets Allowed
Yes
- Pets must be kept on a leash not to exceed six feet in length at all times.
- Protect your pet's paws from the hot ground! On a sunny day if the air temperature is 85 degrees Fahrenheit, the trail surface will be about 135F which can cause burns to skin and paws. At 110F the trail surface will be over 160F!
- Pets should not be left unattended.
- We require that you clean up after your pet at all times.
Activity Fee
Yes
The Historical Railroad Tunnel Trail is in a fee area, like the rest of the park. Keep your park pass or proof of admission with your vehicle for rangers to inspect.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter, Spring, Fall
Remember heat kills, be summer-smart and opt to hike when temperatures are cooler. If you do choose to hike during the summer, rangers recommend starting early in the morning or later in the evening when the weather is slightly cooler. Remember to pack enough water for your entire trip.
Accessibility Information
This trail is considered accessible. There is no shade for the first 1.5 miles. The surface is level and made of hardpacked fine gravel that is easy for bikes and wheelchairs to roll on. There are shipping containers in two of the tunnels with short ramps at each end. They protect people from small rocks that infrequently fall from the ceiling.
Historic Railroad Trail
Map of Historic Railroad Trail and trail amenities.
Historic Railroad Trail Virtual Hike
Video Player is loading.
Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details
- Duration:
- 8 minutes, 6 seconds
The Historic Railroad Trail within Lake Mead National Recreation Area brings us into direct contact with the rich history of Hoover Dam and the creation of Lake Mead. It also provides some outstanding scenic views of the lake and its mountain setting. It is one of Southern Nevada's most unique trail experiences. Come along with us on this virtual hike. The history is as exciting as the recreation opportunities.
Related Information To Check Out
-
HikingMore hikes at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
-
Lake Mead Visitor CenterThe Lake Mead Visitor Center is the one-stop shop to get all of your information before you recreate in the park.
-
PetsPets are allowed in certain parts of the park.