We had previously hiked Anniversary Narrows and were happy to return to this scenic little limestone slot canyon. This time we added on Anniversary Peak and made it a loop hike of around 9 miles and 1,800 feet elevation gain (Anniversary Peak’s summit is 3,045 feet). This hike is located in the Muddy Mountains Wilderness area about an hour northeast from Las Vegas and contained partially within the Lake Mead Recreation Area. From the BLM website about the Muddy Mountains: “a magnificent range of rugged limestone cliffs and canyons along the north shore of Lake Mead. A thrust fault layers limestone over sandstone, with a “window” eroded through to reveal sandstone underneath at the Bowl of Fire and Hidden Valley.” Between the cool slot canyon and great views from the peak - it is definitely a geologically interesting and beautiful area.

We parked in the lot just off of Northshore Road at mile marker 16. The last time we were here a higher clearance/more rugged vehicle was needed to drive to the second parking lot, so we just went ahead and parked in the first lot. This time around, the road was better graded and I think it’s easier now to reach the second parking lot. At any rate, we walked the roads (Callville Wash Road and Anniversary Mine Road) to get to Lovell Wash (under 2 miles). These roads are here from the mining activity and other evidence of past mining is evident in the wash and surrounding area. We entered Lovell Wash and walked around half a mile or so to get to the entrance of Anniversary Narrows, a lovely slot canyon with interesting colors and erosion patterns. This slot is easy to navigate and there are many spots to stop and marvel at the beauty. I think it’s about another 0.5 miles through the slot until it opens up again into Lovell Wash.

We continued up the wash and we used the track we downloaded to help navigate, as there is no defined trail. We did see cairns here and there and once we left the wash and climbed through the mud hills, we did hit upon a herd path that led us to a saddle on Anniversary Ridge. Looking behind us, the views of the Muddy Mountains kept getting better as we climbed and when we reached the saddle, the Bowl of Fire came into view on the other side - gorgeous! This bowl of red sandstone looks very similar to the landscape of Valley of Fire and was a good excuse to stop and admire the views while we caught our breath before making the final push to the summit. This involved some places we had to use our hands, but it was straightforward. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this hike - but it definitely wasn’t such amazing views from the summit - I was wowed by the 360 views and scenery. Luckily it wasn’t windy or cold at the top and we sat there for a long time soaking it all in. This was definitely one of the highlights of our week!

In retrospect we decided it might have been better to do this loop the other direction or return the same way we came because there were some spots descending down the other side that were a hassle due to loose rocks on steep slopes. Once done with those sections and off the ridge, it was pretty easy cruising back to the road and our car. We really loved this hike with its variety and beauty and it was a standout of our week of hiking in Vegas. We finished up our day with Sushi Fever and dessert at Patisserie Manon.