If you want to know how to find the Fire Wave in Valley Of Fire, you’re in the right place!
I recently visited this hidden gem on my road trip from Las Vegas to Zion National Park, and I highly recommend seeing it for yourself!
What Is The Fire Wave?
The Fire Wave is a beautiful sandstone formation located in Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park.
Valley Of Fire is named for its abundant, bright red Aztec sandstone nestled into surrounding limestone mountains.
The sandstone is so old, it’s actually from the Jurassic period. Crazy, right?!
It was formed from sand left behind after inland seas subsided, and the land rose.
And with its swirling patterns of red, white, and pink sandstone, the Fire Wave actually resembles an ocean itself!
Also, unlike many mega-popular wonders like The Wave in Arizona, the Fire Wave is relatively unknown.
You don’t have to hassle with a lottery and permit system like you do with The Wave, and you can enjoy smaller crowds!
Now let’s keep it our little secret!
Related: The Ultimate Grand Canyon South Rim Travel Guide
How To Get To The Fire Wave
Tucked away in Nevada’s Valley Of Fire State Park, the Fire Wave is about a 1 hour 15 minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip.
I highly recommend stopping by if you’re road tripping to Zion National Park from Las Vegas. It’s on the way anyways!
It also makes a great day trip from Vegas if you want a break from the city lights.
Once you arrive at Valley Of Fire, the entrance fee to the state park is $10 per vehicle.
The drive through the park is very scenic, and makes you feel like you’re on another planet!
After you arrive at the trailhead, you’ll park in the parking lot and get ready for a short hike to the Fire Wave.
The hike itself is fairly easy at 1.5 miles round trip, and takes you through some really cool, otherworldly rock formations.
If you want to know more about the trail, head over to AllTrails.
Related: The Ultimate Zion National Park Travel Guide
When Is The Best Time To Visit The Fire Wave?
Valley Of Fire is in the desert, so the best time of year to visit is generally the cooler months.
During the summer, temperatures easily get over 100° and there’s very little shade.
If you visit during this time, bring LOTS of water, sunscreen, and a hat. Also make sure to start out as early in the day as possible.
(In fact, the Fire Wave Trail will sometimes close in the heat of the summer, due to many visitors suffering heat-related injuries. If you want to visit during the summer, check Valley Of Fire’s website for up to date info.)
That said, if you visit in the cooler months, heat is less of an issue. But I do have some tips to get the best photos possible!
No matter what time of year, I recommend visiting the Fire Wave in the early morning, or early evening.
These times give the best light for taking photos, as the sun during the day can be pretty harsh.
Golden hour really brings out the beautiful pink and cream hues in the sandstone, and this is when the the Fire Wave will look the most beautiful.
Also, if you stick around as the sun goes down, you’ll be rewarded with a pretty stunning sunset!
Related: The Ultimate Northern Arizona Road Trip Guide
Happy Travels!
I hope this post inspires you to visit the Fire Wave and Valley of Fire!
Any questions? Let me know in the comments. xo
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