The best running trails in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
65
runners
12
runs
Jogging in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument offers a unique experience through a prehistoric landscape now characterized by Ice Age badlands and modern Mojave Desert terrain. The region features dry washes, ridges, and yellow mud hills interspersed with gray limestone alluvium. Runners can explore diverse desert scrub habitats and enjoy panoramic views of the Las Vegas, Sheep, and Spring Mountain Ranges. This undeveloped historic landscape provides a sense of vastness, revealing evidence of an ancient ecosystem.
Best jogging routes in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
- The most popular jogging route is Tule Spring – Tule Springs Ranch loop from Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs, a 3.4 miles (5.5 km) trail that takes about 37 minutes to complete, traversing varied desert terrain.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Running loop from Iron Mountain Ranch, a moderate 3.3 miles (5.3 km) path, offering views of the surrounding Mojave Desert scrub habitat.
- Local runners also love the Running loop from Ice Age Fossils State Park, a 7.9 miles (12.7 km) trail leading through Ice Age badlands and dry washes, often completed in about 1 hour 18 minutes.
- Jogging in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument is defined by Ice Age badlands, Mojave Desert scrub, and views of mountain ranges. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 50 runners have used komoot to explore Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 11, 2026
11
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
5.32km
00:33
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
12.7km
01:18
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
runners
12.3km
01:17
50m
50m
The Upper Las Vegas Wash Trail offers a consistent and accessible jogging experience on a wide, paved asphalt path. You'll follow a drainage canal, enjoying a blend of urban scenery and pleasant desert landscaping, with occasional views of the Las Vegas valley. It's a smooth, mostly flat route, ideal for those seeking an easy and reliable place to run.
Planning your visit is simple, with good parking access and amenities like restrooms and drinking fountains at trailheads such as the Centennial Lawrence Trailhead. This 7.7-mile (12.3 km) route has a minimal 167 feet (51 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes, making it a moderate effort. Remember to bring plenty of water, especially if you're jogging in the warmer parts of the day.
This multi-use trail is recognized for providing an "urban river experience through a unique desert landscape," making it a notable feature in North Las Vegas. It's a popular spot for jogging, walking, and cycling, and is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your leashed companion along for the workout. The trail also features quarter-mile markers to help you track your distance.
24
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
Tips from the Community
Cottonwood Lake is one of several lakes in Floyd Lamb Park. There is a path that circles the water and some benches if you want to take a break from your run to enjoy the park.
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The Tule Springs Ranch in the Floyd Lamb Park was built in the early 20th century and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Ideally situated by a natural spring, this historic ranch is a great place to explore when visiting the park. There are informational signs by all the buildings, which are mostly whitewashed brick, which help keep them cool in the Las Vegas summers.
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The Las Vegas Wash Trail is a multiuse trail that follows the Las Vegas Wash, an urban river to leads into Lake Mead. The trail is completely paved and traffic free.
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Tule Spring in the Floyd Lamb Park is an oasis in the desert! Tule Spring, a natural perennial spring feeds several small ponds in the park and has allowed people to live here for centuries. This verdant spot by largest pond in the park is a great place to relax by the water and look out for all types of waterfowl and insects as well as peacocks that roam the park! You might see people fishing in the pond as well.
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The Tule Springs Ranch in the Floyd Lamb Park was built in the early 20th century and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Ideally situated by a natural spring, this historic ranch is a great place to explore when visiting the park. There are informational signs by all the buildings which are mostly whitewashed brick, which help keep them cool in the Las Vegas summers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument?
There are over 10 dedicated jogging routes within Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the unique desert landscape.
What kind of terrain will I encounter on the jogging trails?
You can expect a diverse range of terrain, including 'Ice Age badlands,' dry washes, and ridges. The trails feature surfaces of loose gravel, compacted desert soil, and some paved sections, traversing yellow mud hills interspersed with gray limestone alluvium and Mojave Desert scrub habitat.
Are there any family-friendly running paths in the monument?
Yes, the monument offers several easy to moderate options suitable for families. For instance, the Aliante Loop Trail is an easy 2.5-mile path with minimal elevation change, perfect for a leisurely family run. The Tule Spring – Tule Springs Ranch loop from Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs is another popular choice, offering varied desert terrain over 3.4 miles.
Can I bring my dog on the jogging trails in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument?
While the monument is generally welcoming, it's always best to check the most current regulations regarding pets on trails directly with the National Park Service. Typically, dogs are permitted on trails but must be kept on a leash. For specific guidelines, please refer to the official NPS website for Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see while running?
As you run, you'll experience 'Ice Age badlands' and diverse Mojave Desert scrub habitat. Many trails, like the Durango Loop, offer panoramic views of the Las Vegas, Sheep, and Spring Mountain Ranges. The landscape itself is a significant feature, revealing evidence of an ancient ecosystem and its paleontological significance, with opportunities to observe exposed sediment layers.
Are there any circular running routes available?
Absolutely. Many of the routes in the monument are designed as loops, providing a continuous running experience without retracing your steps. Examples include the popular Running loop from Iron Mountain Ranch and the Running loop from Ice Age Fossils State Park.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument?
The cooler months, specifically fall, winter, and early spring, are highly recommended for jogging. This avoids the intense desert heat of summer, making for a much more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available at access points to the monument's trails. While there are no established visitor centers, the monument is designed for accessibility, and you'll find designated areas to park your vehicle before heading out on your run.
What makes running in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument unique?
Jogging here offers a unique blend of physical activity and a journey through time. You'll run through a prehistoric landscape that was once a lush wetland, now a diverse desert environment. The undeveloped nature of the monument provides a sense of vastness and connection to nature, with the added intrigue of its paleontological significance and Ice Age history.
Are there any self-guided tours or educational elements along the running paths?
Yes, some trails enhance the running experience with educational context. The Durango Loop Trail features a self-guided tour, and the Aliante Loop Trail offers a science-themed self-guided audio tour, allowing you to learn about the area's history and ecology as you jog.
How difficult are the running trails in the monument?
The trails range from easy to moderate difficulty. For example, the Upper Las Vegas Wash Trail is a moderate 7.6-mile route, while shorter, easier loops are also available. The monument caters to various fitness levels, with options for both casual jogs and more challenging runs.
Most popular routes in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
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