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Cool Off at Lake Mead

by Heather on June 2nd, 2008

We had a wonderful break in our weather last week - it actually got pretty chilly again! But now we’re back up where we’re supposed to be this time of year and many locals and visitors are starting to think of ways to keep cool.

One popular destination is Lake Mead, located just 30 miles southeast of the Las Vegas valley. Lake Mead is the reservoir created by the Hoover Dam and is the largest man-made lake in the US! It straddles both Nevada and Arizona and extends over 100 miles behind the dam.

Lake Mead has made the news over the recent years for its shrinking water supply and is currently holding only half of its intended capacity. The white line you see in the picture is referred to as a bathtub or tub ring and shows how much the water level has dropped over the last twenty years.

There’s still a lot that can be done on the lake, though. One popular attraction for our kids is the Lake Mead Cruises. We’ve been on the adorable Desert Princess Too and had a lot of fun on our little two hour ride. My husband and I each had a daiquiri from the refreshment bar on board, and the kids got little ring pop candies and juice.

Moving over the water, even in the dead of summer, is a wonderful way to cool down. You don’t even have to get in - just the breeze created by the boat and the reservoir itself are refreshing and remind you that summer doesn’t last forever!

Of course there’s the standard water fun as well: Kayaking, water skiing, boating and swimming are still options despite the levels, though you might have to trek out a little further to the docks! Many marinas also rent out house boats for weekend fun without a lot of work. Who says you have to stay in a hotel when you come to Vegas?

If you are in the mood for a hotel off-strip, though, there are several options available as well. Lake Mead Lodge, Temple Bar and Echo Bay Resort all offer lodging and you can get great food at Lake Mead Marina, Las Vegas Boat Harbor, Callville Bay (which also offers shower and laundry facilities), Echo Bay, Overton Beach and Temple Bar. Groceries and equipment (including fishing gear), service stations and gas are all available at the marinas.

And don’t forget to just stop and enjoy the scenery, too!

Lake Mead
~ Directions: Take U.S. 93 south through Boulder City toward Phoenix, approximately 30 miles.

~ Hours: Recreation areas are open daily, 24 hours. Visitor center is open 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

~ Cost: General entrance fee (1-5 days): $5 per vehicle; $3 per individual (applies to motorcycles, bicycles, hikers). $20 for annual passes; $10 for Golden Age Passport (62 or older) $50 for National Parks Pass. Lake use (1-5 days): $10 first vessel; $5 each additional vessel. All major credit cards accepted, as well as cash and check.

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POSTED IN: Attractions, Family Fun, Great Places to Unwind, Must-See Sights, Photos, Scenic & Short Trips