A particularly magnificent stretch of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is known as the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. Encompassing more than 316,000 acres, the region is ideally located just 30 minutes from downtown
Las Vegas. Best known to locals as Mount Charleston, which is actually one of three congressionally designated wilderness areas in the region, the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area is home to the snow-capped peaks of southern Nevada and serves as a quick getaway for
Las Vegas area residents and tourists alike. Both La Madre Mountain and Rainbow Mountain can be found in the area and are also congressionally designated wilderness areas, which combine with Mt. Charleston for a total of 79,500 acres.
The stunning Spring Mountains Recreation Area offers surprising diversity, thanks to its snowy mountaintops and hardy surrounding desert. The region includes all types of terrain, from low meadows to steep canyons to towering peaks. Dramatic elevations in the recreation area range anywhere from 3,000 feet to nearly 12,000 feet at the peak of Mt. Charleston. In addition to its native wildflowers, trees and shrubs, the unique landscape also boasts 58 plants and animals that can only be found in this beautiful, distinctive area. The region is also home to wild horses and burros, desert tortoises, deer, elk, coyotes, foxes and even bobcats, as well as songbirds, hummingbirds and various birds of prey. With its sprawling setting and fantastic location, the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area is a very popular spot for skiing and snowboarding, hiking, camping, climbing, wildlife and bird viewing and sightseeing.