Cathedral Gorge State Park

Best known for its buff-colored cliffs and cathedral-like spires, Cathedral Gorge became a state park in 1935. The land as we know it today was created by violent eruptions that occurred over tens of millions of years during the Piocene era, depositing layers of ash hundreds of feet thick. About five million years after the eruptions had ended, block faulting occurred and shaped Nevada's mountains and valleys. Over time, Meadow Valley filled with water and became a fresh-water lake. More block faulting occurred and water drained from the lake, exposing the land as it is now. The area was once home to the Fremont, Anasazi and Southern ...

Best known for its buff-colored cliffs and cathedral-like spires, Cathedral Gorge became a state park in 1935. The land as we know it today was created by violent eruptions that occurred over tens of millions of years during the Piocene era, depositing layers of ash hundreds of feet thick. About five million years after the eruptions had ended, block faulting occurred and shaped Nevada's mountains and valleys. Over time, Meadow Valley filled with water and became a fresh-water lake. More block faulting occurred and water drained from the lake, exposing the land as it is now. The area was once home to the Fremont, Anasazi and Southern Paiutes, and now 2,000 acres of this land composes the state park. The campground contains an RV dump station and 22 sites, each with table, grill and shade ramada. The day-use picnic area has a large shade ramada with three picnic tables. Still in use today, the original picnicking facilities were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. Recreational features include hiking trails for exploring the recessed nooks and crannies. Nature study, photography and ranger programs add to the popular park's appeal. Cathedral Gorge is located 165 miles northeast of Las Vegas (Interstate 15 N and U.S. Highway 93).

About the Expert

Connie Emerson is the author of more than a dozen books, including The Cheapskate's Guide to Branson, Missouri and Eyewitness Top Ten Travel Guide – Las Vegas.