Las Vegas is known for its bright lights, casinos, and entertainment, but it also has a hidden gem in the form of Lake Mead. Lake Mead is a man-made lake located in the Mojave Desert, just a short drive from Las Vegas. It was created by the construction of the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River and is the largest reservoir in the United States. In this article, we will explore the history and features of Las Vegas Lake, along with the various activities available for visitors.
History:
Lake Mead was created in the 1930s as part of the construction of the Hoover Dam. The dam was built to provide hydroelectric power and irrigation to the surrounding areas. As a result of the dam, the Colorado River was blocked, and the water was diverted to create the lake. The lake was named after Elwood Mead, who was the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation during the construction of the dam.
Features:
Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the United States, covering over 248 square miles of water. The lake has a capacity of 26.12 million acre-feet and is fed by the Colorado River. The lake has several marinas and boat ramps, making it a popular destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The lake is also home to several islands, including Boulder Island, Sentinel Island, and the aptly named “Pirates Cove.”
Activities:
- Boating:
One of the most popular activities at Lake Mead is boating. The lake has several marinas and boat ramps, making it easy to rent a boat or bring your own. Visitors can enjoy water skiing, wakeboarding, or just cruising around the lake. The lake is also home to several coves, which are perfect for anchoring and swimming.
- Fishing:
Lake Mead is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and bluegill. Fishing is allowed in most areas of the lake, although there are some restrictions on certain species. Visitors can fish from the shore or a boat, and there are several fishing tournaments held throughout the year.
- Swimming:
Lake Mead is a great place to cool off on a hot summer day. There are several designated swimming areas around the lake, including Boulder Beach and the Las Vegas Bay Beach. Visitors can also swim from their boats in the coves.
- Hiking:
There are several hiking trails around Lake Mead, including the Historic Railroad Trail and the River Mountains Loop Trail. The trails offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains and are a great way to explore the area.
- Wildlife Viewing:
Lake Mead is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and desert tortoises. Visitors can view the wildlife from the shore or on a boat tour. The area is also home to several bird species, including the American white pelican and the bald eagle.
- Scuba Diving:
Lake Mead is a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. The lake has several dive sites, including the B-29 Bomber, which was sunk in the lake as part of a training exercise. The clear waters of the lake make it a great place to explore underwater.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding:
For a more low-key adventure, visitors can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters of the lake. The area around the islands is particularly scenic and offers great views of the surrounding mountains.
Conclusion:
Lake Mead is a hidden gem in the heart of the Mojave Desert, offering visitors a wide variety of activities and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re into boating, fishing, hiking, or just relaxing on the beach, there is something for everyone at Las Vegas Lake.