|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
         
 Reporter |
Summary: The hike takes you to the highest point in southern Nevada. You’re almost 10,000 feet above Las Vegas. Once you reach the meadows, the hiking becomes easy. The last half-mile is very strenuous, but the views from the peak make it all worthwhile. The South Loop Trail climbs the steep slope to the ridge. It then heads west through the Meadows and into a forest. Near the treeline, the wind has reduced bristlecone trees to dwarf size. Once above the treeline, the trail traverses to the final push to the peak. Trailhead: From the Mirage on Las Vegas Boulevard (the Strip) go north 1.5 miles and turn left (west) onto Sahara. In less than one mile, turn right (north) onto I-15. Take I-15 two miles to US 95. Take US 95 north 14 miles to State Route 157. Go left on 157, drive 21 miles, and turn right into Cathedral Rock Picnic Area. The signed trailhead is located one-tenth of a mile past the fee booth on the right (west) side of the road. The entrance fee is $6 per car. Parking is available across from the trailhead; however, it may be full on weekends. If the parking areas are full, closed, or you don’t want to pay to park, parking is also available just before entering the picnic area on the right (west) side of the road. It is a quarter-of-a-mile walk to the trailhead from the entrance of Cathedral Rock Picnic Area. (Lat:36.25389 Lon:-115.64359) Trail Guides for Charleston Peak via South Loop Trail: Hiking Las Vegas by Branch Whitney (Huntington Press) Best Seasons: Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: US Forest Service Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Branch Whitney, who has posted 2 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Kris on 9/26/2007 If you plan on hiking to the top of Mt. Charleston then despite what the summary above states DO NOT park in the Cathedral Rock picnic parking lot as the gates are locked at 6:00 PM. Its unlikely a round trip hike can be completed prior to 6:00 PM and your vehicle will be locked in until the next morning. There is plenty of free parking just outside the gate in front of the pit toilets. The views and vistas on this hike are a treat and worth the effort. Although one day short of fall the aspen and birch trees at the lower elevations have begun to turn color and are striking against the back drop. The trail climbs steeply to about 10,000 feet and crosses over a ridge to a more southern exposure. 
Reviewed by Nicole on 12/17/2006 I LOVE this hike. It is an absolutely amazing experience. The views are spectacular. What I love about this hike is that although it is indeed challenging, it is possible due to the gradual ascent/descent. I would definitely recommend doing south loop up and back and camping overnight if you can.
Reviewed by A. Riedel on 6/29/2004 Incredibly amazing! This hike is a life experience. Do the loop, not just one side.
Reviewed by jsl on 6/28/2004 Trail climbs up from trailhead on a series of steep switchbacks with some shade. Upon reaching ridge, bristlecone pines are present along trail. Old plane wreck right below summit along trail. Don't count on finding any water on this hike. It is also possible to climb Charleston as part of a huge loop. 
Reviewed by kjg on 8/7/2003 Horses and stock are allowed the entire length of both south loop and north loop trails -- meadows at top of saddle make a nice rest area along south loop -- good trees for high picket line. Be sure horses are used to altitude. No water on south loop for horses - bring lots. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Nevada Hiking, Nevada Trails, Nevada Hikes, Clark County Hiking, Clark County Trails, Clark County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||