As the country’s largest man-made reservoir, Lake Mead is a jewel of southern Nevada, drawing millions of visitors each year. The lake exists thanks to the construction of the Hoover Dam which straddles Nevada and Arizona on the mighty Colorado River. The creation of the dam and the lake were key in helping southern Nevada grow to what it is today. To learn more about the story of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, head to Boulder City just outside Las Vegas. Boulder City has a robust equestrian community and is home to the historic railroad tunnel trail where you can ride right through the region’s history.
As the name implies, the trail follows an old railroad bed that was built in the early 1930s. It was used to haul materials and equipment from Boulder City during the construction of the Hoover Dam. At the height of its activity, trains ran 24 hours a day. The last train ran in 1961 and the tracks were dismantled the following year. Today, the 3.7 mile (one way) trail leads through five tunnels. Each is approximately 25 feet wide, 30 feet high, and 300 feet long.
Between the tunnels, you get views from above Lake Mead with interpretive signs that explain the local history and wildlife. After the tunnels, the trail leads through the dam’s warehouses, machine shops, and substation, as well as the “boneyard” with remnants of original equipment brought in by the railroad. The trail ends at the Hoover Dam parking garage, where people can see the historic dam.
There are some important things for equestrians to know before heading out to ride this trail.
Tunnel Access
The tunnels themselves are dark but wide so most horses should have no problem going through them. However, shipping containers have been added to two of the tunnels as a safety measure against rock falls. (see photos above) Trail users must walk through the shipping containers. Riders should use extreme caution, as the metal containers are narrow, loud, and have ramps at each end. It’s doable but some horse’s might not like it.
Hoover Dam Access
Horseback riders cannot access the Hoover Dam viewing area. The trail ends at the Hoover Dam parking garage where there are signs that say no bicycles beyond this point. While the signs don’t mention horses, there are narrow steps down to the garage, which is very busy with traffic and people. It’s not horse friendly. Without a view of the dam, the payoff for the end of the trail may seem a little underwhelming. Riders may choose to just ride through the tunnels and back, foregoing the dam portion.
Overall Access
Observant trail users may notice a small sign at the parking lot that says horses are not allowed. We emailed the National Parks Service to ask for clarification and received written confirmation from Lake Mead National Recreation Area officials that the trail is open to horses “with the understanding to pick up after yourself and the horse as well as be considerate of hikers and bikers on the trail.”
With all of that, the trail is worth riding just to say you did it! The trail itself is flat with hardpacked fine gravel and well maintained. Temperatures can soar here and there is no shade (outside the tunnels) so it is best to ride in the fall, winter, and spring. The trail is very popular. Expect hikers, runners, dog walkers, bicyclists, families with kids and strollers, tourists, and so on. Almost everyone will want to stop to chat and pet your horse so give yourself extra time to complete the ride. Due to the popularity of the trail, please kick manure off the trail and pick up any in the parking lot. There is a water fountain and a small rest area with bathrooms after the last tunnel.
Getting Here
Where to Park: While there are large bus/trailer spaces, the parking lot is small and due to the trail’s popularity, fills up fast. Come early on a weekday for your best chance at squeezing in and bring a small trailer. If the spaces are full you can park on the edge of the lot.
