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Mouses Tank (Valley of Fire State Park)


Highlights:

Popular short walk to tinaja through Petroglyph Canyon
Near:Overton, NV
Scenery:
Distance:1.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:240 ft
Hike Time:1 hours
Difficulty:Easy
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary: Mouse's Tank (tinaja) is reached by following the trail through Petroglyph Canyon. Turn left at the signed arrow and you will reach a natural basin in the rock where water collects after rainfalls, sometimes remaining for months. The tank may be dry in summer, and will definitely be hot. This is a fall/winter/spring hike unless you enjoy hiking in 120 degree weather. Mouse's tank is named for a southern Paiute renegade indian who used the area as a hideout in the 1890's. The entire canyon and this tank is a real treat to visit, but please take only photos. Sadly, people often try climbing the cliffs around the tank and don't even realize they've damaged the petroglyphs and native vegetation surrounding this area. If ever there was an area where "leave no trace" hiking should be observed -- this is it. The colors at the tank during sunrise and sunset are brilliant. You will not be able to reach the water in the tank and it is NOT suitable for human or canines.
Trailhead: There are 2 popular ways to reach Valley of Fire from Las Vegas. The faster and shorter route is 55 miles north via I-15 freeway, exit from fwy and entry to Valley of Fire is well marked, although the 2 lane paved entry road is 35 - 45 mph, curves, and can easily wash out during rain. The longer but more picturesque route is 60 miles from Las Vegas via Northshore Road. The Northshore Road is a main 2 lane paved road which winds you around Lake Mead, past Callville Bay, Bowl of Fire, several picnic areas, short hikes, Echo Bay, and finally past Overton Beach. Lake Mead is a fee area, but this fun (and more isolated) drive is a "must do" whenever I take visitors to Valley of Fire. It is a wonderful full day road trip to begin at Hoover Dam, follow Northshore Road, and end up at Valley of Fire; taking the I-15 freeway south to make a loop back to Vegas. Leave early in the morning in the summertime as the heat is intense, of course. RR at TH pkg, but no water. (Lat:36.4371 Lon:-114.50961)
Trail Guides for Mouses Tank (Valley of Fire State Park):
Free brochure for Valley of Fire State Park
by Nevada State Parks (Nevada Div. of State Parks)

Hiking Around Las Vegas
by Jim Boone (Jim L. Boone)

Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter,
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs,
Ranger Contact: Valley of Fire State Park (702) 397-2088, P.O. Box 515, Overton, NV 89040
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Kat Green, who has posted  86 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by David on 5/13/2007
Took our cub scouts on this hike. Alot to see. Make sure you climb up and over the mountain. It is when you get to Mouses tank. A different view point of the Mouse tank and a neat area to explore. Bring water!

Reviewed by Andrea Q on 5/6/2007
We saw dozens of petroglyphs! If you take it slow and look at the canyon walls, you'll see them. It's a sandy hike, but great for families with small kids.

Reviewed by VF on 5/1/2007
Be sure not to jump in the hole. It is much deaper than it looks! I would guess about 8 or 9 feet and wall as smooth and vertical. I had to be pulled out!

Reviewed by Jeff on 4/25/2007
I've hiked this trail twice now and it was a great hike both with kids and with my parents. There are many petroglyphs and quit a few lizards around as well. I have seen water in the tank both times, just be careful not to fall in!

Reviewed by Rohana on 12/6/2006
A decent hike, but not the best. There are a few petroglyphs, just before you get to Mouse's Tank - and probably others that I missed the first time in. It is another sandy hike though, and winds through redrock. Good for a light hike with the family.

Reviewed by linni on 10/24/2005
hello i am from germany. for us, who live in the lower mountain region with moderate temperatures it is an adventure to walk through red rocks, on sandy ground, imaging that this could be a place to live. its important to take with you enough water to trink, even in september. i love this place very much!!!!!!i would come again for sure. linni from germany


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

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