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Backpacker Magazine Las Vegas, NV: Mary Jane Falls 

Escape the heat of the Las Vegas Valley by trekking through a forested alpine canyon en-route to a waterfall, caves, and stunning vistas on this out-and-back 3.5-mile hike.


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Author: Backpacker Magazine
Date: 11 Nov 2008 11:09:26 PM
Activity: Hiking
State: Nevada (NV)
Distance: 3.5 mi  (Change units)
Difficulty: 5 / 10
USGS Topo Map: Charleston Peak
Tags: Las Vegas, Nevada, Mt Charleston, Waterfall Hikes
Rating:   2 rating(s) Rate it

There's more to Las Vegas than just bright lights and $8.99 surf-and-turf specials. Just 45 miles north of town, immerse yourself in the spectacular natural beauty of the area by hiking to Mary Jane Falls. This moderately strenuous, out-and-back trail culminates at a 50-foot waterfall (and several caves) and offers views of the regal Mount Charleston.

The well-marked trail starts by winding through a deep canyon lined with ponderosa pines, mountain mahogany, white fir, and aspens. Around mile 0.75, the trail delves into a series of sharp switchbacks that offer magnificent views of Kyle Canyon.

Following the switchbacks, gray limestone cliffs form the backdrop for Mary Jane Falls, which are fed by springs and snow. Though the falls are most vibrant in early spring, it's best to explore the caves once the snow has melted in the summer.

Even miles away from Las Vegas, it's likely you'll run into other groups on this well-traveled trail. And though hikers of all fitness levels can complete the hike, be prepared for the challenge of climbing nearly 1,000 feet in under two miles. Expect cooler weather beginning in October, and look out for snow and ice on the trail during the winter and early spring.

-Mapped by Chelise Simmons

TO TRAILHEAD: Take US 95 N to Kyle Canyon Rd./NV 157. Turn left onto Kyle Canyon Rd./NV 157 (marked with a sign for Mount Charleston). In 20.3 miles, bear right onto Echo Way. In 0.4 mile, continue straight on NV 11/Kyle Canyon Rd. Go 0.2 mile to the parking area at Mary Jane Falls Trailhead.

Position Format: Datum:
Tracks

Mary Jane Falls

Distance: 1.67 mi Points: 104
Total Time: none Speed: 0.0 mph Pace: 0:00 / mi
Active Time: none Speed: 0.0 mph Pace: 0:00 / mi

Points of Interest

MJF001

Location: 36.266872, -115.661964
From the Mary Jane Falls Trailhead follow the gravel path to the northwest; it's a steady climb ahead.

MJF002

Location: 36.274033, -115.671036
The trail grade increases on the switchback climb.

MJF003

Location: 36.276421, -115.670811
As the trees thin, the first views of the cave appear ahead. Look to the southeast for impressive views down Kyle Canyon.

MJF004

Location: 36.276109, -115.670258
The trail meets the limestone rock face. Continue straight at the switchback onto a small spur trail for a different perspective overlooking Kyle Canyon.

MJF005

Location: 36.275461, -115.669770
This vantage point offers more views into Kyle Canyon. Next, return to Waypoint 7 and bear right, heading north toward Mary Jane Falls.

MJF006

Location: 36.276217, -115.670248
The switchbacks give way to rock stairs as the trail meets the limestone headwalls. The terrain levels ahead.

MJF007

Location: 36.278436, -115.671573
Mary Jane Falls: Depending on the season, you'll find either a stream or a sprinkle of water trickling down the limestone wall. Behind the falls, you'll catch awe-inspiring views of Mount Charleston and a glimpse of nearby Big Falls. (Mount Charleston, covered in snow until late May, is the highest peak in southern Nevada's Spring Mountain Range.) Explore the caves around the falls, then hike west on the narrow, gravelly path to visit a larger cave.

MJF008

Location: 36.278146, -115.673348
This larger cave marks the end of the trail. When you're finished exploring, turn around and head back to trailhead.

Trailhead

Location: 36.266880, -115.661842
© Chelise Simmons

Path

Location: 36.267728, -115.662979
© Chelise Simmons

Aspens

Location: 36.268428, -115.664020
© Chelise Simmons

Limestone Rock

Location: 36.271144, -115.667431
© Chelise Simmons

Kyle Canyon View

Location: 36.275452, -115.669652
Looking down the canyon. © Chelise Simmons

Cave View

Location: 36.276412, -115.670747
© Chelise Simmons

Mary Jane Falls

Location: 36.277242, -115.670393
© Chelise Simmons

At the Falls

Location: 36.278419, -115.671455
© Chelise Simmons

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