Blue Diamond Travel Guide

Planning to visit Blue Diamond, Nevada? This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the best places to visit, things to do, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Blue Diamond, a small town located in Southern Nevada, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its stunning natural scenery, historic museums, and exciting outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque region.

Introduction to Blue Diamond

Blue Diamond is a charming town surrounded by the Mojave Desert and the Spring Mountains, located just 26 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. This quaint village is an ideal destination for those who love tranquility and want to get away from the hustle and bustle of busy city life.

List of Places to Visit in Blue Diamond

Here are some of the must-visit places in Blue Diamond:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: known for its red sandstone peaks and colorful rock formations, visitors can hike, bike, and scenic drive.
  • Bonnie Springs Ranch Old Town: a postcard perfect Old West town with a zoo, horseback riding, a petting zoo, and a nightly gunfight show.
  • Spring Mountain Ranch State Park: a 520-acre oasis with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Clark County Museum: located in Henderson, a must-visit for history buffs, with exhibits detailing the rich history of the county.

Natural Attractions of Blue Diamond: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Wilson Trail: a challenging hike with stunning views of Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, and Lake Mead.
  • Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge: home to over 30 endangered species, and a popular spot for birdwatching.
  • Hoover Dam: located 45 minutes from Blue Diamond, this engineering marvel is a sight to behold.
  • Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail: a popular hike, with stunning views of the Colorado River and the Hoover Dam.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Blue Diamond

Blue Diamond has a plethora of hiking and biking routes, suitable for beginners to experienced hikers and bikers alike. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • Calico Hills: a moderate trail with stunning views of the red rock formations and the Las Vegas skyline.
  • Turtlehead Peak: a challenging climb, with panoramic views of Lake Mead, Las Vegas, and the surrounding mountains.
  • Ice Box Canyon: a trail with towering cliffs and a seasonal waterfall, suitable for moderate hikers.

Best Things to Do in Blue Diamond: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, there are plenty of other exciting activities to do in Blue Diamond:

  • Horseback riding at the Bonnie Springs Ranch Old Town: explore the old west on horseback.
  • ATV tours: Our ATV tour of the Mojave desert is a fan favorite,
  • Stargazing: the sky above Blue Diamond is perfect for stargazing, and there are several stargazing tours available.
  • Rock climbing: Red Rock Canyon is a world-renowned rock climbing destination, and there are several routes for different skill levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Blue Diamond

If you have a week in Blue Diamond, we suggest the following itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Explore the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and nearby Bonnie Springs Ranch.
  • Day 3-4: Hike the challenging Mount Wilson Trail, followed by a relaxing day at the hot springs.
  • Day 5-6: Horseback riding and ATV tours at the Bonnie Springs Ranch Old Town, followed by stargazing in the evening.
  • Day 7: Visit the Hoover Dam and catch a sunset at Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail.

Food and Drinks Scene of Blue Diamond

Blue Diamond has some excellent restaurants and bars that offer delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nevada’s signature dish: Basque cuisine with hearty stews and comfort food, served at the Omelet House.
  • Freshly baked artisanal bread and pastries at the Blue Diamond Bakery.
  • Burgers and fries at the Cottonwood Station Eatery and Saloon.

Local Beverages

  • Nevada craft beer at the Cottonwood Station Eatery and Saloon.
  • Freshly brewed coffee at the Blue Diamond Bakery.
  • Wine tasting at the Pahrump Valley Winery.

Where to Stay in Blue Diamond: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several motels and guesthouses in Blue Diamond, but most tourists prefer to stay in Las Vegas, which is just a 30-40 minutes drive away. Some suggested hotels are:

  • Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa: a luxury casino resort, with stunning views of the Red Rock mountains.
  • The Venetian Resort Las Vegas: inspired by Venice, this resort has top-notch amenities, including a spa, pool, and world-class restaurants.
  • Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino: a budget-friendly option, with easy access to all the popular attractions in Las Vegas.

What to Buy in Blue Diamond: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Whether you want to buy local crafts or souvenirs, Blue Diamond has lots to offer. Visit these shops for some unique mementos:

  • Blue Diamond Art Gallery: exhibits art and photography from local artists.
  • Overton Gallery: sells handmade pottery, jewelry, and other artisanal products.
  • Terrible’s Road House Gift Shop: sells Route 66 memorabilia and unique gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Blue Diamond

Respect for nature is a way of life in Blue Diamond. Visitors are expected to follow ecological standards and value conservation. Most locals practice a live-and-let-live lifestyle, so respect their space and do not disturb the peace.

Best Time to Visit Blue Diamond

The best times to visit Blue Diamond are from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. Avoid visiting during the hot summer months when the temperatures can soar to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Blue Diamond

Follow these do’s and don’ts during your trip to Blue Diamond:

Do:

  • Respect nature and the environment.
  • Carry enough water and supplies.
  • Enjoy the outdoor adventures.
  • Take a tour guided by locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash.
  • Smoke in unmarked areas.
  • Disturb the natural habitat.
  • Trespass or violate park rules.

Safety and Health

When visiting Blue Diamond, it’s essential to take measures to ensure your safety and health. Follow these tips:

Safety in Blue Diamond

  • Stick to marked trails and stay away from dangerous drop-offs.
  • Carry plenty of water and use sunscreen.
  • Always inform someone of your travel plans and itinerary.
  • Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Health in Blue Diamond

  • Stay hydrated and acclimatize yourself to the altitude.
  • Protect yourself from insect bites and mosquito-borne illnesses.
  • Avoid touching wild animals or plants.
  • Visit a doctor immediately if you experience any health issues or discomfort.

Getting to Blue Diamond: Transportation Options and Logistics

Blue Diamond is a 30-40 minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip via State Route 159 or State Route 160. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Blue Diamond

  • McCarran International Airport, Las Vegas: approximately 25 miles from Blue Diamond.

Bus Stations Near Blue Diamond

  • Greyhound Station, Las Vegas: approximately 26 miles from Blue Diamond
  • Megabus Las Vegas Station: approximately 24 miles from Blue Diamond

Other Options

  • Car rental services are available at the airport and in Las Vegas.
  • Several tour operators offer shuttle services to popular attractions in Blue Diamond.

How to Get Around in Blue Diamond

A car is the best way to get around Blue Diamond and the surrounding region. Car rental services are available at the airport and in Las Vegas. Taxis and ride-share services operate in the area, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Blue Diamond: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that you can explore after your trip to Blue Diamond:

  • Las Vegas: explore the entertainment capital of the world.
  • Red Rock Canyon: a short drive from Blue Diamond, offers excellent hiking trails and scenic views.
  • Lake Mead National Recreation Area: known for its boating, fishing, and scenic beauty.

Conclusion

Blue Diamond is a beautiful destination in Southern Nevada, offering an exciting mix of outdoor adventures, historic museums, and breathtaking natural scenery. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this hidden gem.