Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Lake Mead Train Trail Hike - Boulder City, NV

View of Lake Mead from the Train Trail Hike

Introduction


After running the St Patrick's Day Half Marathon I knew I had to get some pictures (and video) of the second half of the race.  There were just so many fantastic views and unique rock formations and to capture all of them would've really slowed me down.

So I made a note to myself that I would take a run in the morning and capture all the beauty.

However, after eating and crashing on my bed in my hotel room I began tossing and turning.  The pool was closed, I couldn't sleep in my over-caffeinated state and I really wasn't sure what I felt like doing.  I was just exhausted and dehydrated.

Then just as I was falling into a semi-fitful sleep I got a knock on the door.  It was house keeping.  So rather than watch them work, I filled a Gatorade bottle up with water, put it in a tote bag and headed out.

Staying at the Hoover Dam Lodge, I was fortunate enough to have direct access to the Train Trail.  The Train Trail was constructed at the time that the Hoover Dam was being built.  Trains filled with supplies came via this route to supply the workers.  Once the dam was completed, the tracks were removed and now a well groomed running, walking and biking trail exists -- along with some stunning views.

Best of all, the hike is absolutely free and if you are able to, allows you stress-free access to the Hoover Dam (i.e. no traffic or parking woes)


The Hike


From the parking lot of the Hoover Dam Lodge, it probably took me just under 2 hours to make it to the Hoover Dam.  I was taking video and photos along the way and while the temperature was about 88 and sunny, it wasn't too bad.  

There are two drinking fountains (mostly close to the dam) and one restroom (other than at the dam).   Along the way there are also 5 tunnels.  Each are less than a hundred yards (or so) and on the Saturday afternoon I was hiking there was no shortage of other people out.

There are some information signs as well telling you about what you are seeing and I even stumbled upon some elusive Big Horned Sheep.  They weren't shy at all and I was very surprised to see them.  I've hiked a lot of Nevada but have never come across them.

In short, these is an easy hike but best to do it in the early morning or in non-summer months.

Enjoy the photos:

View from the Hoover Dam Lodge


















Desert flowers














Big Horn Sheep

Big Horn Sheep

Big Horn Sheep

Big Horn Sheep







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