Most often, when tourists think of Las Vegas, only one image comes to mind: lavish casinos, beautiful dancers, and over-the-top shows. Las Vegas is known as a place of hedonism, spectacle, and extravagance, and the reputation is well-deserved. However, that is not all that Las Vegas is. You don't have to drive out to Zion in Utah or Death Valley in California just to get a taste of the outdoors. The city of Las Vegas has a quieter, more natural side - one that is definitely worth exploring.

Aside from the many public parks scattered across the city, the foremost place for enjoying the outdoors in Las Vegas is Red Rock Canyon, also known as Red Rocks. Just under 20 miles west of the famous Las Vegas strip, as you drive towards W. Charleston Blvd, the canyon is a beautiful range of jagged crimson peaks jutting out into an amazing blue sky. Here you can watch various reptiles scamper along the crevices of the giant rocks, marvel at the unique and stunning desert vistas, and maybe even spy a few wild burros or Desert Bighorn sheep as you make your way.

This national park has many hiking trails to choose from; there is sure to be one to fit any level of expertise. Easy trails are safe for children and involve nothing more than walking on fairly flat ground. Moderate trails may demand a bit more in terms of levels of fitness. Some of the more advanced trails may also require some rock scrambling and bouldering knowledge. Note that trailing distances in the canyon can range from a half-mile jaunt to a 15 mile march. If you need advice on what trail is right for you and your companions, it's a good idea to stop at the Visitor's Center before you embark on your exploration of the Las Vegas wilderness. Remember to ask how long the trails are and prepare accordingly.

As for the climbers, Las Vegas is a veritable haven. The sport is very popular in the city, and newbies can get trained at any of the many climbing gyms that have sprouted in the area. Climbing walls are accessible from Henderson to Summerlin, and both instruction and gear are widely available for rent and sale.

For the experienced looking for a natural rock climb, however, Red Rocks, again, is the place to go. A nice drive into the park's "Scenic Loop" will reveal intimidating rock walls of at least 30 feet high, each with varying degrees of difficulty. On most weekends, there will already a gathering of climbers at the base by 7 am, all waiting to take their turn. Climbing itself is free, although you may have to pay for entrance as well as parking fees.

Be advised that some climbs will not be available in certain parts of the year due to the weather. To be sure, inquire at the Visitor's Center or contact a reliable climbing guide. The Red Rock Climbing Center (702-254-5604) and Sky's The Limit (1-800-733-7597) are two reputable climbing centers.