You can see Lake Mead without packing for a hike. From Boulder City, choose Lakeshore Road for water views, Northshore Road for a longer drive through desert rock formations, or Hoover Dam Access Road to visit the dam itself. Pick one first rather than trying to squeeze all three into a short afternoon.
Featured image: original editorial illustration.
- Lakeshore Road: lake-and-mountain scenery, with the visitor center near the Boulder City end.
- Northshore Road: a longer outing through red-rock country.
- Hoover Dam: use the signed access road; the highway bridge is a different crossing.
Which Lake Mead drive should you choose from Boulder City?
Start with Lakeshore Road if your main wish is to see blue water against desert mountains. It is our choice for a relaxed first drive from Boulder City. Northshore Road makes more sense when the drive itself is the outing and you want to spend longer among the rock formations.
The Lake Mead scenic roads are paved. Both pass through desert scenery, but you do not need to cover every mile to enjoy them. Choose a turnaround before leaving town, and use designated places to park when you want to get out.
Where can you stop before driving Lakeshore Road?
The Lake Mead Visitor Center is at 10 Lakeshore Road, just east of Boulder City. Stop there for a park map and help choosing your route. Inside, a large relief map shows the whole recreation area, which makes it easier to understand how much ground a longer drive would cover.
The visitor center also has exhibits about desert wildlife and a park store. For a family that wants scenery without a long walk, a visitor-center stop followed by part of Lakeshore Road is a simpler choice than committing to the full Northshore drive.
How long is Northshore Road?
At almost 50 miles long, Northshore Road runs through the northern part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area. That is the road’s length, not a round-trip distance from Boulder City. Choose it when you want a longer desert drive, and account separately for reaching it and getting back to town.
Northshore Road passes through changing geologic scenery. The stretch between Callville Bay and Echo Bay includes red boulders and rock formations. The extra distance changes our recommendation: for a short break before lunch in Boulder City, choose Lakeshore rather than the full Northshore route.
Can you drive across Hoover Dam?
Most passenger vehicles can cross Hoover Dam after inspection at the Nevada security checkpoint. To visit, follow Hoover Dam Access Road. Drivers continuing into Arizona must return to Nevada and use the highway bridge instead. A drive onto the dam and a through-trip across the river are different routes.
Use the official Hoover Dam directions to reach the visitor area. Vehicles cannot stop on top of the dam, so use a designated parking lot for a look around. Read the vehicle and parking information before bringing a trailer or an oversized vehicle.
What should you bring for a scenic drive?
Bring water and a park map, and check Lake Mead’s entrance fees before choosing a park drive. In town, pick up coffee at Dam Roast House or picnic groceries at Albertsons. If you would rather eat after the drive, leave time to return to Boulder City instead of adding another road.
Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore is a downtown coffee stop; Albertsons is an option for groceries. Our Boulder City things-to-do guide has ideas for the rest of your visit.
Before leaving, check current Lake Mead conditions and park fees and passes. Then take the road that gives you time to stop and enjoy the view.