Indeed, in this arid land where summer temperatures limit some kinds of recreational pursuits, the desert offers a wider variety of activities during the cooler months of the year. To acquaint the public with such possibilities, National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management rangers and volunteers schedule an ambitious and interesting lineup of outings during the cooler months of the year. The advantages of joining an organized hike are many. These hikes are guided by expert leaders familiar with plants, animals, geological features and regional history. They acquaint participants with desert and mountain areas they might never attempt to find on their own.
Every effort is made to ensure a safe experience for all participants.
In upcoming outings during the holidays, hikers may explore various side canyons in the Red Rock area, several historic and scenic locations near Davis Dam and Katherine, Ariz., on Lake Mohave, ancient petroglyphs near Temple Bar, Ariz., on Lake Mead and hidden vistas reached from Lake Mead's scenic Northshore Road. On Monday, hikers in the Katherine area of Lake Mead National Recreation Area will climb Relay Hill by way of an old Jeep road. This moderately strenuous three-mile round trip climbs some 600 feet to spectacular views. On this eve of the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, hikers will follow the moon's silvery light along a well-maintained trail at a relaxed pace. Dress warm for this one.