A short 20-mile drive out of Las Vegas, the skyline faded into my rearview mirror. I instantly noticed the scenery change from a barren desert to cooler temperatures and ribbons of lush grass growing within the mountain ranges. The city’s overstimulation washed away as I retreated into the mountains and toward Spring Mountain Ranch State Park.
Just outside Las Vegas lies Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, a hidden gem offering a glimpse into the state’s past alongside scenic hikes, the history of its famous owners, and a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Tips for Your Visit
- Park hours vary by season, so check before you go.
- Be sure to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
- Bring a blanket and food for a picnic under the trees.
- Closed-toe shoes are recommended for hiking the trails.
- Bring your dog. This is a pet-friendly place!
- Entrance fee: $10.00 per vehicle (Non-NV Vehicles: $15.00 per vehicle) Bike-in is $2.00 per bike.
A Ranch with a Colorful History
When I decided to visit Spring Mountain, my motivation extended beyond simply needing a break from Las Vegas. I was genuinely intrigued by the ranch’s rich history, particularly its association with notable figures such as the German actress Vera Krupp and the accomplished businessman and aviator Howard Hughes. I was eager to delve into the captivating stories and events that unfolded on the property, and I looked forward to immersing myself in its fascinating past.
Vera Krupp
The property’s ownership dates back to the early 1800s, and it has always been a place of natural resources and a working ranch. The original structures from the first ranch are still standing and are considered some of Nevada’s oldest buildings. However, my focus was solely on the history of its later residents. Prior to my visit, I hadn’t heard of Vera Krupp, or at least I didn’t think I had. I knew about the Krupp diamond somewhere in my brain but didn’t make the connection until I started walking the main house’s halls.
In 1955, Vera Krupp purchased the scenic ranch and gave it the name Spring Mountain. One of the most widely publicized events during her ownership was a daring burglary that resulted in the theft of the renowned Krupp diamond. Following her divorce from her fourth husband, Vera continued to proudly wear the impressive 33.6-carat blue-white diamond ring on various occasions. Even by today’s standards, wearing such a sizable diamond is certain to attract significant attention.
On the evening of April 10, 1959, as Vera and a ranch employee were enjoying dinner, three intruders forcibly entered the premises and snatched the diamond right off her finger. After a swift and thorough investigation by the FBI, the stolen diamond was successfully recovered in New Jersey six weeks later.
Howard Hughes
Due to failing health, Vera sold the property to Howard Hughes in 1967. I have come across conflicting reasons as to why Hughes bought the property. One reason cited was he was purchasing a lot of real estate in Las Vegas at the time, and this was just another property to add to his collection. Another reason was that the ranch was bought for his then-wife, Jean Peters, as she did not like staying in the Vegas hotels when she was in town. Although the main house features many photos of Howard Hughes, many historians of the property claim that he never actually visited the property.
As I strolled through the various rooms, I took the time to connect with the history and stories of the previous owners. What struck me the most were the women who had managed to acquire lavish gifts from their brief relationships. I couldn’t help but find it ironic and somewhat amusing that while I can’t receive a simple text back, these women had been showered with extravagant gifts like vacation homes and glitzy diamonds. If there was one takeaway from learning these stories, it was that I need to set the bar higher.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park offers five hiking trails ranging from 0.3 to 1.4 miles long. In my time exploring the area, I hiked the three shortest trails: the Lake Harriet Loop (0.4 miles), Overlook Loop (0.8 miles), and North Ash Grove Loop (0.3 miles). What struck me the most was the well-defined paths and the ease of walking on these trails, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the natural beauty surrounding me. This hiking experience was physically rewarding and captivated my senses as the abundance of greenery and life thriving in the heart of the desert.
Spring Mountain’s diverse landscape offers stunning views of the nearby Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. If these hikes aren’t long enough to exhaust all your energy, the hikes at Red Rock Canyon offer more extended hiking options.
Picnics, Theater, and More!
After an afternoon of hiking and exploring the area, relaxing on the expansive lawn is a perfect way to re-energize. Bring a picnic basket and enjoy a tranquil picnic under the shade of the many trees at Spring Mountain Ranch. Barbecue grills are also available to prepare hamburgers and hot dogs for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re visiting during the summer months, catch a show at the Spring Mountain Ranch Super Summer Theater. This local non-profit organization offers community theater performances under the enchanting night sky. Families can spread out a blanket on the lawn, share their picnic delights, and enjoy a magical theater production on the grand outdoor stage. You can easily access this information on their website for show schedules, dates, and times.
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park: A Perfect Day Trip
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is a perfect escape from the Las Vegas crowds. Whether you’re interested in history, hiking, or simply enjoying a relaxing day outdoors, this park has something for everyone. With its convenient location and variety of activities, Spring Mountain Ranch State Park makes for a delightful day trip for the whole family.
Craving an escape from the glitz and glam of the Las Vegas Strip? Nevada’s got a ton to offer beyond the casinos! From natural wonders to historic sites, there’s something for every adventurer. To delve into the incredible day trips and hidden gems near Vegas, head over to my other blog posts where I’ve explore the very best things to do outside Sin City!
The information in this article was accurate when published but can change without notice. Please confirm rates and details when planning your trip by following the links in this article. If you find out-of-date or inaccurate information, I’d love to hear about it to update the article. Use the comments section below. Thanks!
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