Clark County Wetlands Park sits on the east side of Las Vegas, between the city and Lake Mead. Reclaimed water feeds ponds, streams and wetland plants in this Mojave Desert setting, drawing birds and other wildlife to the Las Vegas Wash. Walk paved or unpaved paths through cottonwood groves, then head to the Upper Division Weir Bridge, known as Big Bridge, for views across the water. The visitor center has interactive exhibits about local wildlife. Admission and parking are free, so you can add a nature walk without an entry fee.
How wetlands formed in the Mojave Desert
Clark County Wetlands Park follows the Las Vegas Wash, between Las Vegas and Lake Mead. The park was created to manage treated wastewater and stormwater runoff. Reclaimed water flows through the area, supporting wetland plants and ponds in the dry desert climate.
As Las Vegas grew, more treated water was released from its wastewater treatment plant. Water moving toward Lake Mead carved out the wash, and porous dams called weirs were built to control its flow. Clark County turned the area into a refuge. The park covers about 2,900 acres, including a 210-acre nature preserve near the visitor center.
Trails, ponds and the Weir Bridge
Paths in the nature preserve pass cottonwood groves, ponds and other habitats beside the wash. Some are paved and others are unpaved. Boardwalk Pond, Cottonwood Grove, Vern’s Pond and Island are among the named places to explore. Big Bridge, the Upper Division Weir Bridge, is a popular destination; it is about 0.7 mile from the visitor center. One walking route goes to the bridge and returns by a different path, covering about 1.3 miles.
For a longer outing, the Wetlands Loop is a 14-mile multiuse route connecting trailheads farther east, including Pabco and Wells. It follows the Las Vegas Wash. The loop is paved from mile 0 to mile 11.5, and the park also has paved, accessible trails. The easy Nature Preserve Loop is about 2.1 miles and mostly paved.
Wildlife and the visitor center
The park’s wetlands and trees attract a wide range of birds. Species recorded here include cinnamon teal ducks, American coots, green herons and great blue herons; migratory birds also use the wash. Mammals and reptiles inhabit the park as well. Coyotes, beavers, rabbits and turtles are among the animals visitors may encounter, along with smaller wildlife such as dragonflies.
The visitor center has interactive exhibits about the park’s wildlife, and a pamphlet can help identify birds and animal tracks. Water refill stations and restrooms are available there. The nature preserve is closed to dogs, bicycles and scooters to protect its wildlife. Park areas outside the preserve may have different arrangements, so check the county’s park information before bringing a pet or bike.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Clark County Wetlands Park free?
Yes. Admission and parking are free.
How long is the walk to Big Bridge?
The Upper Division Weir Bridge is about 0.7 mile from the visitor center. A route that returns by another path is about 1.3 miles.
Are dogs allowed in the nature preserve?
No. Dogs, bicycles and scooters are not allowed in the nature preserve.
What can you see at Clark County Wetlands Park?
The park has ponds, streams, cottonwood groves and wetland habitats along the Las Vegas Wash. Wildlife includes many bird species as well as mammals and reptiles.
