|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
![]()
Reporter |
Summary: The Corn Creek field station is NOT a challenging hike. There are some really nice meandering trails which take you over and along the creek, several ponds, by some historic ranch buildings, and under shady trees. This is a pastoral area, which was inhabited in the 1700's by Paiute Indians, by Mormon settlers in 1850's, pioneers and ranchers in 1900's (wagon/stage stop), and purchased by the Govt in 1936. Corn Creek is a nice little destination for children, older adults, and anyone who may not be aware of life in Southern Nevada beyond the neon. This peaceful little stop may not hold your interest for long, but be sure to SIGN THE REGISTER, even if you're headed into other parts of the Wildlife Range. The Desert Wildlife Range is more than 1.5 million acres and Corn Creek is the main entrance/access. The western half of the range is used by the U.S. Air Force (Nellis AFB) as a test/training area and is closed to the public. Know the boundaries ! Trailhead: From Las Vegas, take U.S. 95 North towards Reno or the Mt. Charleston area. Traveling on 95, drive past the turn to Mt. Charleston (Kyle Canyon Rd.), and continue on the freeway, while looking for the small brown sign CORN CREEK and a row of mailboxes on the R or E side, which is where you turn and head east. (If you reach Lee Canyon Rd on 95, you've gone too far -- turn around and look for the sign again). Once you've turned off the freeway, you'll go 4 miles on a gravel road to the Corn Creek field station. Do NOT take the right fork on the gravel road -- this will take you to the community of Corn Creek (horse ranches, trailers & a few residences). After you've enjoyed the trails and sanctuary at Corn Creek field station, try either the Alamo Road or Mormon Wells Road (both gravel) for a full day 4wd exploration trip of the Sheep Range. Popular hikes emanating from these roads are Hidden Forest, Joe May Canyon, Gass Peak, Hayford Peak, Cabin Springs, etc. (Lat:36.43845 Lon:-115.3583) Trail Guides for Corn Creek (Desert National Wildlife Range): Free brochure from U.S. FWS Desert Natl Wildlife Range by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Red Rock Audubon Society) Hiking Around Las Vegas by Jim Boone (Jim L. Boone) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Horses, Ranger Contact: USFWS - Desert Natl Wildlife Refuge Complex (702) 879-6110, 1500 N. Decatur, LV Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Kat Green, who has posted 86 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review I took my two boys (aged 1.5 & 11) at the end of summer and they both loved it. It was cooler, but still warm and very humid. The trail was interesting but a tad difficult for my toddler. We saw huge cranes, lots of colorful birds, frogs, large dragonflies, and even a coyote (who thankfully kept his distance). Fantastic oasis away from the ugliness of Las Vegas Great birding The desert national wildlife refuge contains many wonderful and diverse areas for which to explore, but unfortunatly many people assume that because you are so far away from people and the mess of the city that a piece of trash or two does not make much of an impact. I CAN ASSURE YOU IT DOES!!! As the picnic tables came into view I was disgusted to see that some careless idiot had left all of thier picnic trash everywhere, what kind of person does that? I have personally been enjoying the peace and quiet that the refuge provides for almost a year now, and have hiked out with others trash more times than i'd care to recall. in closing, you MUST see the refuge for yourself,it is pristine,and awe inspiring,but,PLEASE TAKE YOUR TRASH WITH YOU! Wonderful birding on the edge of the Desert National Wildlife Refuge. Lots of birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles to be seen. Easy, well-maintained trails. All of this within 30 miles of Vegas! Very nice scenery. Definately would not reccomend the roads for a car. It is definately made for 4wd vehicles. It is possible to take a car (we did today) but not highly recommended. Nice place to go with the family for a quiet day away from the city. To NWG ... Call or stop by the US Fish & Wildlife Office (now combined with USFS & BLM on N. Torrey Pines Blvd in Las Vegas) if you really can't find Corn Creek. It shows on every map I've found including mapquest, expedia, state transportation maps, plus the sign right on US 95. Again, it's between Kyle Canyon and Lee Canyon -- only sign and turn off the highway on east side besides the Indian Reservation between Las Vegas and Indian Springs. If you follow the directions I have described in this hike report, call the USFWS or search Corn Creek NV on the internet, I can't imagine how you could miss the signed turn. It's not a numbered freeway exit so it won't show on a freeway only map. Could not locate, road(s)and area not shown on latest state map!!! To Laura... picnic tables remain. Go approximately 1/4 mile north from Corn Creek Station. Turn right to Mormon Well Road. Turn left to the large cottonwood tree sheltering 2 picnic tables. Secluded and shaded, plus close to toilet facilities and visitor center/bookshop (open Fri-Sun, 8AM-1PM). 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||