Welcome to the Lake Mead Hoover Dam Tour
Discover the majesty of Lake Mead Hoover Dam with this self-guided driving tour! Take in vibrant rock formations millions of years in the making! Hike fantastic desert trails. Uncover the history of ancient tribes and their strategies for survival. Witness the Colorado River’s force and learn about the ongoing struggle surrounding this life-giving source of water. All from the comfort of your own vehicle!
About the Tour
The journey begins at the Lake Mead Visitor Center. From there, you’ll pass the Lake Mead Marina, a vibrant hub of recreational activities. As you drive on, take in the array of colored rocks along the cliffs! You’ll learn about the area’s fascinating geologic history which encompasses billions of years. Then delve into the Colorado River Tribes and find out how they survived in such a harsh climate. You’ll even pass the hot springs which ancient Paleo-Indians found therapeutic and sacred!
Discover tales of lawlessness and murder which played out during the region’s Wild West days, then continue on to the Wetlands Trail, packed with diverse wildlife. Stop by the Northshore Road Overlook for majestic views, then hear the fascinating story of explorer John Wesley Powell.
You’ll also hear about steamboats and how they served as a vital form of transportation until the railroads came to the area. Plus, find out about Elwood Mead and why this famous lake bears his name. Discover the geological wonder of the Hamblin-Cleopatra Volcano and the drowned archaeological marvel of the Lost City.
Then hear about the devastating Mega Drought and the ongoing fight over Lake Mead’s water. Next, head into Valley of Fire State Park, home to blazing rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, unforgettable hiking trails, and some proper Wild West history. Your tour concludes here.
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Where To Start?
Start your tour at Lake Mead Visitor Center: 10 Lakeshore Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Welcome
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Geology
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Colorado River Indian Tribes
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Hot Springs
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Hatchery Saddle Point
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Sunset View Scenic Overlook
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Beavers
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Owl Canyon Trail
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El Dorado
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Ahvote’s Grudges
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The Ute and Paiute People
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Wetlands Trail
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The Las Vegas Wash
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Golden Eagles
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Northshore Road Overlook
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Powell’s Expedition
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Steamboats On the Colorado River
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Elwood Mead
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The Imperial Valley Disaster
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Harry Thomas Cory
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Callville Wash Trail
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Mesquite Trees
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Anniversary Narrows Trail
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Hamblin-Cleopatra Volcano
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White Gold
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Hoover Dam
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Northshore Summit Trail
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The Lost City
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The Puebloans
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The Most Repulsive Tree
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A Most Peculiar Specimen
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Rattlesnakes
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Redstone Dune Trail
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Mountain Lions
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Monster of the Lake
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Dinosaur Fossils
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How Do Fossils Form?
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Suckers!
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Water Wars
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Echo Bay
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B-29 Crashes into Lake Mead
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Hidden Horrors of Lake Mead
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Rogers Spring
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Blue Point Spring Trail
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Historic St Thomas Loop Trail
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Valley of Fire
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Elephant Rock Overlook
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Historic Cabins
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Seven Sisters
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Detour: Arch Rock
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Atlatl Rock
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Fire Cave and Windstone Arch
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Mouse's Tank and Petroglyph Canyon Trail
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Silica Dome Trail
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Cactus Wren
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Kangaroo Rat
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Coyotes
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Pastel Canyon
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Fire Wave Trail
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Lights, Camera, Action
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White Dome Trail
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Lake Mead is famous for being one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States, formed by the Hoover Dam, and for its recreational activities.
Lake Mead is named after Elwood Mead, the Bureau of Reclamation commissioner during the construction of the Hoover Dam.
Yes, Lake Mead is safe for swimming and offers various water-related recreational activities.
Yes, Lake Mead is safe for swimming and offers various water-related recreational activities.
No, Lake Mead and Hoover Dam are not the same. Lake Mead is the reservoir created by the Hoover Dam.
Yes, Hoover Dam impounds the Colorado River, creating Lake Mead as a result.
Lake Mead serves as a water supply and provides hydroelectric power, while Hoover Dam controls flooding and generates electricity.
Lake Mead can reach depths of up to 500 feet (150 meters) near Hoover Dam.
Yes, you can bring pets to some areas of Lake Mead, but they must be on a leash and follow park regulations.
Driving around the entire Lake Mead can take several hours, depending on stops and route choice.
Yes, some areas of Lake Mead are accessible at night, but it’s important to follow park hours and regulations for safety.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
