By Terrisa H. Meeks
May 6, 2010

Las Vegas, Nevada, is known for bright lights, slot machines, and showgirls. Thirty minutes from the Strip, Lake Mead offers visitors a more serene experience. Hoover Dam created the1.5 million acre reservoir of Lake Mead, which sits amid the red rock formations and multi-colored cliffs of the Mojave Desert. Secluded coves dot the lake’s shoreline, and miles of scenic roads skirt its edge. Dogs are welcome at Lake Mead, so you and your canine companion can explore it together.

Only a few miles from Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Loews Lake Las Vegas is a non-gaming, pet-friendly resort on a private lake. Their “Loews Loves Pets” program includes a gourmet room service menu for pets, dog massage, special bedding, and places to walk your dog on the resort’s grounds.

To fully explore Lake Mead’s 550 miles of shoreline, travelers may want to rent a houseboat. Dog-friendly Forever Resorts at Callville Bay Marina offers these floating homes, which can provide every comfort, including bathrooms and air conditioning. You and your dog can cruise the lake until you find the perfect beach. Drop the anchor, and catch some fish for dinner. At dawn and dusk, look for big horn sheep atop any nearby cliffs.

You’ll see another side of Lake Mead without a boat. Along the scenic drives of Lakeshore Drive and Northshore Road, you’ll find frequent turn-outs and overlooks. For a panoramic view of Lake Mead, take a hike on the Historic Railroad Hiking Trail that takes you through five locomotive-sized tunnels bored through the mountainside.

After the hike, stop for lunch in Boulder City. The town was built to house Hoover Dam’s workers, and it still has its 1930s architecture. You and your dog can stroll the small downtown, which is part of Boulder City’s Historic District. For lunch, try Milo’s Cellar Sidewalk Cafe, or picnic in one of the many parks.

This summer, Boulder City will become even more dog-friendly when the Boulder City Dog Park opens. This off-leash park will have benches, watering stations, and plentiful shade. Future plans include a clubhouse and an area for dog events and classes. Organizers intend to make it one of the best facilities for dog-related events in Southern Nevada.

Photos courtesy of Forever Resorts, Loews Lake Las Vegas, Adam Baker and Jessica B Photography