Elephant Rock

Elephant Rock is a beautiful red sandstone arch right at the West Entrance of Nevada's first state park, The Valley of Fire.

Elephant Rock is easy to find. From I-15 take exit 75 and travel west. The exit is easy to find and there's an indian smoke shop and casino. If you forgot to get supplies you can stock up on snacks and drinks there. Follow the road west for about 17 miles until you get to the west entrance of the park. Park at the self pay station. For Nevada residents entry is 8 dollars, everyone else pays 10. It's a state park so your national park pass won't get you in.

At the fee station you'll find easy parking with bathrooms, park info, and maps of the park's trails. The trail head to Elephant Rock is also here. Follow the signs for about a 1/2 mile and you will end up at the rock. It's an easy hike with a great view especially at sunrise.

During the day the arch is popular with visitors so I'd recommend photographing it at sunrise or at night. Sunset also works but I like sunrise there. While the park is technically closed at night, the park's rangers are great and allow photographers in. Please be courteous and respectful so we don't lose this privilege.