Between Las Vegas & Zion Is A Desert City With Championship Golf, Red-Rock Views, & 58 Miles Of Trails

When it comes to traveling to Nevada, most people only focus on two cities: Las Vegas and Reno, aka an old-school American city with attractions that feel stuck in the 1980s. But these spots only represent one aspect of Nevada's appeal. While gambling is certainly a popular reason to visit the Silver State, its outdoor recreation opportunities are another draw.

One such place is the city of Mesquite. Easy to miss on the map, Mesquite is located about an hour northeast of Las Vegas and an hour and a half southwest of Zion National Park in Utah, which itself is full of scenic cliffs, canyons, and hiking trails. In fact, the city borders Arizona, making it easy to visit multiple states in a single trip.

But what is it about Mesquite that makes it travel-worthy? Well, it offers a little bit of both worlds. First, it's home to multiple casino resorts, so you can still indulge in a little gambling and high-end entertainment. There are also over 58 miles of hiking trails throughout the city, allowing you to marvel at the red rock environment, as well as Mesquite's "Little Mount Rushmore." On top of that, the city offers championship-level golf. Best of all, because of its relatively remote location, you don't have to deal with the crowds of Vegas or Zion. So, let's see what makes this travel destination such a hidden gem.

One of the best ways to experience the natural scenery of Mesquite is to stroll along the nearly 60 miles of trails that weave through the city. Most of these trails are paved, making them accessible to a wide range of visitors. One challenge is protecting yourself from the desert sun as you walk or bike from one place to the next. If you're trying to see as much of the city as possible, take the four-mile Roadrunner Trail, which circles the heart of the city.

While walking through town is appealing for some, others may prefer to take advantage of Mesquite's abundant golf opportunities. Despite its relatively small size, Mesquite has eight golf courses scattered throughout the area. One notable option is the Palmer course at the Oasis Golf Club, designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer. Similarly, the course at Coyote Springs Golf Club was designed by Jack Nicklaus. Or, if you're planning to stay at the CasaBlanca Resort, you can take advantage of its championship-level course during your visit. All of Mesquite's golf courses are open to the public, although Oasis Golf Club is semi-private and may require advance reservations.

Finally, while the red rocks surrounding Mesquite provide a scenic backdrop for golfing or hiking, you should also check out carvings made by local artist Pete Karns. Best of all, you can view these carvings from the car as you drive along Lower Flat Top Dr. Examples include Little Mount Rushmore, the Statue of Liberty, the Olympic rings, and Stonehenge. But if you're trying to capture photos, you might want to get out and walk so you can get up close.

Considering Mesquite's position at the southeastern edge of Nevada, the closest major travel hub is Las Vegas, aka "America's best city for recreation." Mesquite is about an hour and a half from Harry Reid International Airport. As we mentioned, the city is home to several casino resorts, including CasaBlanca, Virgin River, and Eureka. However, if you're not trying to gamble during your vacation, there are multiple chain hotels, motels, and vacation rentals to fit your budget. Even if you don't stay at a casino resort, you can still enjoy the resorts' entertainment options, such as concerts and live events. These spots also have some of the best restaurants in town, like the Town Square Buffet at Eureka, which offers surf and turf on Fridays and Saturdays, or Katherine's Steakhouse at CasaBlanca for an elevated dining experience.

Finally, besides golfing and hiking, what else is there to do in Mesquite? Well, if you're into museums and culture, check out the Mesquite Fine Arts Center, which not only showcases stunning artwork but also hosts classes and events. Nearby is the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum, where you can learn more about the region's history. Or, for a different educational experience, try the Donkey History Museum, which celebrates the humble animal and its contributions to building America.