About
McCullough Hills Trailhead is one of the perfect family-friendly outdoor activities in Henderson, Nevada. The trails are part of the City of Henderson Parks and Recreation, and it offers something for everyone with its various amenities like:
- Bike trails
- Educational kiosks
- Hiking trails
- Horse tie-ups
- Interpretive signage
- Picnic tables
- Restrooms
- Unpaved trails
Visitors can use the lighted trails from 5 AM-11 PM, while unlit trails are open from dawn to dusk. And with so much to see and do, visits can last anywhere from one to three hours to all-day adventures. Trails are ideal for people of all ages and abilities since some are paved and flat. More challenging terrain is available, and all trails give hikers and bikers alike a grand view of the Las Vegas Valley.
The McCullough Hills Trailhead, also known as Trail 601, is about 8.5 miles long through the rolling hills of the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. Visitors will see Mojave Desert scrub vegetation like creosote and white bursage. Two shaded rest areas are at mile markers 3 and 5.9.
There are two access points to the McCullough Hills Trailhead. The eastern access is at the McCullough Hills Trailhead on Mission Drive, where you’ll find plenty of parking, a covered picnic table, and restrooms. The western entrance is at Anthem Hills Trailhead but adds additional mileage to your trek.
McCullough Hills Trailhead is a popular Henderson, NV attraction for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and those wanting to see geological features and desert scrub.
Fun Facts & Cool Features
While vacationing, I wanted to find an outdoor activity in Henderson, Nevada, where I could do mountain biking and hiking. I discovered the McCullough Hills Trailhead and went to explore.
Due to the heat, I decided to try mountain biking first, so I arrived at daybreak to tackle the trail. As others have commented, the trail traverses the rolling hills of the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area with some spectacular views of the Las Vegas Valley. The course isn’t too technically challenging, but be careful on the hairpin turns with loose dirt and gravel. I found a few short manmade jumps on the trail that allowed me to get some air, but you can steer around them if you’re not daring.
After my bike ride, I refueled at the picnic table in the parking area and cooled down in its shade. Having the restrooms close was also convenient, especially since I needed to change out of my sweaty biking kit.
Once in my hiking gear, I checked the map on display near the picnic area. With my bearings, along with snacks, water, and headgear for the sun, I began my hike. If I’m honest, hiking in deserts doesn’t thrill me like adventures in the mountains or forests, but the sweeping views and the park’s keynote signs along the way were educational. I stopped at the rest benches at mile three to enjoy snacks, shade, and the views.
I enjoyed the solitude of the area both while biking and hiking. If you’re looking for rewarding Henderson, NV attractions, I highly recommend exploring the McCullough Hills Trailhead. It’s perfect for adventurers and nature lovers of all levels and ages.
Getting There
- From Henderson, NV, follow E Lake Mead Pkwy and turn left onto W Atlantic Avenue.
- Follow Atlantic Avenue to Pacific Avenue and take E Horizon Ridge Parkway to E Mission Drive
- The destination is 295 E Mission Drive
Local Tips
- The trails are exposed with no shade, so bring water and wear appropriate attire
- Horses and bikes are on separate trails and won’t interfere with hikers
- For the best views, access the eastern side of the trai
- Check out their website for additional trails in the area
