The Escarpment Trail at the Spring Mountains

The Escarpment Trail is the first hike I usually post to start the hiking season at the Spring Mountains. In an effort to conserve fuel we’ll MeetUp near the Burger King at the Smith’s Marketplace (see pin map for directions), and carpool to the trailhead behind the Spring Mountain Visitor Center. We’ll visit the Spring Mountain Visitor Center prior to starting the hike, and what’s nice is there’s plenty of parking unlike other trails at the Spring Mountains. The Visitor Center usually has some cool T-shirts and other stuff for sale as one can never have too many outdoor theme T-shirts. It’s also no problemo if anyone wishes to meet us at the trailhead.

The trail entails a 4.5mi loop with a short but rather tough section at the start with an elevation gain of about 500ft. There’s also some elevation gain at the western part of the loop before getting to the upper portion of the ridge, but otherwise the trail is well defined and moderately strenuous for most hikers. The only detriment is there’s almost no shade and it’s the first hike to begin acclimating to the thin air of the higher elevation at the Spring Mountains. Be sure to bring adequate hydration in consideration of your BMI, and perhaps snacks, though I usually provide energy food (chocolate) for the general consumption. Hydration can also be purchased at the Visitor Center. Part of the Escarpment Trail is located where there was once a golf course not that many years ago, and the hike also includes some nice views of Kyle Canyon and Mt Charleston. Dogs and kids are invited to attend, provided they’re strong hikers, well behaved and their owner cleans up after them. I’ll email the weather forecast the day prior and make mention of the status of the hike. Lastly, please consider a small donation to Walking Las Vegas to help defray the cost of the annual fee of the MeetUp group. Happy trails…

Please be advised that Walking Las Vegas Organizers are not tour guides and are not park rangers. The purpose of these activities is to provide enjoyment of the outdoors through organized activities. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other outdoor activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. Each participant is expected to be physically and mentally capable of safely accomplishing activities and will follow all safety guidelines and use instructions associated with the event. Each participant is financially responsible for loss or damage to any equipment related to the event. The organizers of this group and current / former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant - including you - at any event. All attendees participate at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests. There may be times when a coordinator fee is assessed. By signing up for this event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising from or related to this Meetup event against the organizers of this MeetUp group. Be careful out there…