Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail
The Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail follows the original rail grade blasted through Black Canyon to supply materials for the construction of Hoover Dam — a 7.5-mile round-trip hike that passes through five hand-cut tunnels and delivers sweeping, unobstructed views of Lake Mead at every turn. It is history you walk through, literally.
The Trail & the Tunnels
An old railroad grade built for the construction of Hoover Dam is now a recreational trail featuring several tunnels and sweeping views of Lake Mead. The path is mostly level, following the original rail bed along the canyon walls, which makes it accessible for most fitness levels despite its length.
Each tunnel is a cool, dark passage blasted through solid volcanic rock in the early 1930s. Carry a small torch for the longer tunnels, and pause inside to appreciate the extraordinary feat of hand-drilling that made them possible — and to escape the desert heat for a blissful minute.
Views & the Dam Spur
The trail ends near Hoover Dam itself, and a short spur off the main path near the dam end offers what many hikers call the finest panoramic view of the entire route — the dam face, the bridge, the canyon, and the lake all visible at once. Plan to linger here.
On a clear winter morning the light bounces off the white dam face and the lake turns a deep cobalt blue. Bring more water than you think you need: the canyon walls reflect heat even in mild weather.
Getting There & Logistics
The trailhead is at the end of Lakeshore Road near the Lake Mead Visitor Center. The path is unpaved but well-graded dirt, and the only significant elevation change is the descent to the dam itself and the climb back up — manageable for most walkers.
The trail is part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, so the $25 vehicle day pass applies. January through March is the sweet spot: cool temperatures, low crowds, and the chance to walk from Nevada into Arizona and back in a single morning.
Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail on video
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