ATV Tour of Lake Mead and Colorado River from Las Vegas

A High-Octane Day Out in the Desert and Beyond

If you’re craving a break from the neon glow of Las Vegas and want to explore the rugged beauty of the American West, this ATV Tour of Lake Mead and the Colorado River offers a memorable mix of adventure, scenery, and local sights. For $250 per person, and lasting about six and a half hours, you’ll hop onto an ATV, traverse the Lake Mead Recreation Area, snap photos of the Colorado River, and finish with a ride on the World’s Largest Monster Truck Limousine.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour: first, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor—making sure everyone feels comfortable and well-informed. Second, the scenery is consistently described as stunning, from sweeping desert views to the impressive Hoover Dam. These are the highlights that make this tour stand out.

However, a couple of considerations are worth noting. Some reviews mention that the actual stops at Lake Mead and Hoover Dam are not part of the itinerary, which might disappoint if you expected to spend a lot of time there. Also, the roughness of the trail could challenge less experienced or less mobile travelers.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and don’t mind a bit of dirt and rugged terrain. It’s geared for those aged 18+ who want a full day of exploration and excitement, with the safety and comfort of guided support.

Key Points

• Authentic adventure: Ride an ATV through scenic landscapes and see the Colorado River.
• Professional guides: Well-reviewed guides make the experience informative and safe.
• Includes transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easier.
• Scenic views and photo ops: Plenty of chances to capture the rugged beauty.
• Well-rounded experience: Combines off-roading, sightseeing, lunch, and a one-of-a-kind monster truck ride.
• Some expectations may vary: Stops at Lake Mead and Hoover Dam are not guaranteed, so set your sights on the stunning landscape instead.

Exploring the ATV Tour of Lake Mead and the Colorado River

What this Tour Offers and Why It’s Special

This six-and-a-half-hour adventure takes you out of the bright lights of Las Vegas and into the heart of Nevada’s rugged outdoor scenery. For just $250, you receive all necessary gear, a guided ATV ride, hotel transfers, and a lunch that includes a burger, fries, and soda—perfect for refueling after a morning of off-road fun.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the guides are highly recommended, thanks to their detailed knowledge and friendly approach. Many reviews highlight guides like Brett, Ely, Steve, and Herb, who excel at making the trip informative and enjoyable, whether explaining the terrain or sharing local stories. Second, the scenery along the trail is consistently described as breathtaking, with some reviewers noting the “beautiful landscape” and “amazing views” that make the ride memorable.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins bright and early at 7 am, with pickup from selected Las Vegas hotels, a convenience that many travelers appreciate. The first stop is the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, where you’ll spend about four hours exploring. This includes a drive through the park to the Colorado River, with photo opportunities and the option for a splash in the water during summer — a highlight for many, especially those who enjoy a little cooling off in the desert heat.

The next stop is the Colorado River, where you’ll pause to take pictures and potentially enjoy some water fun if visiting during warmer months. According to several reviews, the scenery here is “absolutely beautiful,” with one visitor calling the Colorado River “cool and inviting.” But it’s worth noting that some travelers mention the stop at Lake Mead isn’t always as extensive as they hoped, and the Hoover Dam visit is not guaranteed.

Following the scenic rides, your group will head back to the Las Vegas ATVs site for a well-earned lunch featuring their signature burger, fries, and soda. Many reviews rave about the food being “delicious” and “a perfect way to cap off the adventure.” The tour ends with a ride on the World’s Largest Monster Truck Limousine, a true spectacle and a fun way to finish the day.

What You Can Expect During the Ride

The ATV trail winds through dirt, rocky patches, and desert terrain, offering plenty of opportunities for off-road excitement. Many reviewers mention the trail being “rough” but manageable, even for first-timers, thanks to the helpful guides. The ride is approximately 2.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery and challenge yourself without feeling rushed.

The equipment provided includes helmets, goggles, and gloves, which help keep you safe and comfortable. The minimum age to drive is 18, but younger participants (ages 6-17) can join as passengers in a 6-seater UTV, as some reviewers have done with their families. Most travelers find the guides accommodating and eager to assist, especially those new to ATV riding.

Authentic Experiences: What Travelers Say

One of the most praised aspects is the knowledgeable guides. “Brett was an excellent guide with extensive knowledge about the area,” says a reviewer. Many mention the guides’ willingness to stop for pictures and their explanations of local history and scenery.

Reviewers also highlight the scenic beauty—“the scenery is amazing,” “beautiful views,” and “the Colorado River is cool and inviting”—making the ride more than just a thrill. Several describe the monster truck ride as “awesome” and “the best part,” a fun, unexpected bonus.

However, some travelers express mild disappointment when the stops at Lake Mead and Hoover Dam are not as extensive or as frequent as expected. A few mention the trail being excessively rough at times, which could be uncomfortable for some or might limit the experience for those with mobility issues.

Practicalities and Value

The price of $250 covers nearly everything: equipment, guides, transfers, lunch, and the monster truck ride. This all-inclusive approach makes planning straightforward and ensures no hidden costs—something many travelers appreciate.

The hotel pickup saves you from navigating to a meet-up point, and the group size is capped at 14 people, maintaining a personal feel. The timing early in the morning helps beat the crowds and makes the most of the day.

Considering the reviews, most find this tour excellent value—a full day of adventure, scenery, and fun for a reasonable price. The combination of off-road riding, sightseeing, and entertainment offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to those seeking a taste of the wild west.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers eager to explore Nevada’s natural beauty from a different perspective. It’s perfect for first-time ATV riders thanks to the guides’ support, but experienced riders will also enjoy the challenging terrain and scenic routes.

Those who love photography will find plentiful opportunities to capture stunning desert and river landscapes. Families with older children (over 18 to drive) can enjoy a fun day out together, especially if they’re comfortable with some physical activity and dirt.

If you’re after a relaxing sightseeing tour with lots of history and museums, this isn’t it. But if you want thrills, scenery, and a taste of the wild with a friendly guide, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This ATV Tour of Lake Mead and the Colorado River offers an energetic and visually stunning escape from the Las Vegas strip. You’ll love the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, making the off-road ride more engaging and informative. The views of Lake Mead, the Colorado River, and the surrounding landscape are truly memorable, making it worth every penny for lovers of nature and adventure.

The inclusion of lunch and a monster truck ride adds extra fun and value, transforming this from a simple outdoor activity into a full-day experience. While it’s not a sightseeing tour with extensive dam or lake visits, the scenic views and off-road thrills compensate well.

This tour is a great choice for those wanting an active, authentic outdoor experience with a touch of Vegas’ unique entertainment flair. Just be ready for some bumps, wear closed shoes, and bring your camera—you’ll want to remember this day.

FAQ

Will I be picked up from my hotel for the ATV Tour of Lake Mead and Colorado River?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for most Las Vegas Strip hotels. Just let the provider know your hotel during booking, and they’ll coordinate with you.

Can two people ride on the same ATV during this tour?
No, only one person is allowed per ATV. However, children ages 6-17 can ride as passengers in a 6-seater UTV.

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
No, a driver’s license isn’t required, just a valid photo ID or passport. You’ll need to be 18+ to drive an ATV yourself.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a photo ID, sunglasses, hat, and perhaps a small backpack for personal items. Dress comfortably and wear closed-toe shoes.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Many reviewers mention that guides help beginners feel comfortable, and the terrain is manageable for first-timers.

What if I want to go swimming?
You can bring a swimsuit if you plan to swim in the Colorado River, which is available during summer months. Don’t forget your towel!

How long is the ATV ride?
The off-road portion lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with scenic stops along the way, making it a good mix of activity and sightseeing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel within that window.

Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, fantastic scenery, or a fun family outing, this ATV tour offers a well-balanced mix of all three. It’s a lively, engaging way to see some of Nevada’s most impressive natural sights without the crowds—and with plenty of opportunities to take home great memories.