Frommer's Las Vegas 2004

202
CHAPTER 7 . WHAT TO SEE & DO IN LAS VEGAS
Tips
Desert Hiking Advice
Except in summer, when temperatures can reach 120°F (49°C) in the
shade, the Las Vegas area is great for hiking. The best hiking season is
November to March. Great locales include the incredibly scenic Red
Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire State Park (see chapter 11 for details
on both).
Hiking in the desert is exceptionally rewarding, but it can be dangerous.
Here are some safety tips:
1. Don’t hike alone.
2. Carry plenty of water and drink it often. Don’t assume spring
waters are safe to drink. A gallon of water per person per day is
recommended for hikers.
3. Be alert for signs of heat exhaustion (headache; nausea; dizziness;
fatigue; and cool, damp, pale, or red skin).
4. Gauge your fitness accurately. Desert hiking may involve rough or
steep terrain. Don’t take on more than you can handle.
5. Check weather forecasts before starting out. Thunderstorms can
turn into raging flash floods, which are extremely hazardous to
hikers.
6. Dress properly. Wear sturdy walking shoes for rock scrambling,
long pants (to protect yourself from rocks and cacti), a hat, sunscreen,
and sunglasses.
7. Carry a small first-aid kit.
8. Be careful when climbing on sandstone, which can be surprisingly
soft and crumbly.
9. Don’t feed or play with animals, such as the wild burros in Red
Rock Canyon. (It’s actually illegal to approach them.)
10. Be alert for snakes and insects. Though they’re rarely encountered,
you’ll want to look into a crevice before putting your hand
into it.
11. Visit park or other information offices before you start out and
acquaint yourself with rules and regulations and any possible hazards.
It’s also a good idea to tell the staff where you’re going,
when you’ll return, how many are in your party, and so on. Some
park offices offer hiker-registration programs.
12. Follow the hiker’s rule of thumb: Take only photographs and
leave only footprints.
TENNIS Tennis buffs should choose one of the many hotels in town that have
tennis courts.
Bally’s (& 702/967-3380) has eight night-lit hard courts. Fees per hour
range from $10 to $15 for guests, $15 to $20 for nonguests. Facilities include a
pro shop. Hours vary seasonally. Reservations are advised.
The Flamingo Las Vegas (& 702/733-3444) has four outdoor hard courts
(all lit for night play) and a pro shop. It’s open to the public daily from 7am to
7pm. Rates are $20 per hour for nonguests, $12 for guests. Lessons are available.
Reservations are required.