spring mts/mt charleston hiking question

Can anyone recommend some day hike trails in the Spring Mts/Mt Charleston area? I'm hoping to divert some non-climbers who will be visiting and have done a little research online so far. Its hard to tell which trails are most recommended for scenery, strenuousness, flora/fauna, etc. Thanks for the help....Bernard

Bernard,

I highly recommend Bristlecone Trail (Lee Canyon/Mt. Charleston) as a good introduction to the area. For avid hikers, it's probably considered an easy hike (elevation gain of 600 Ft.) but it's generally rated as moderate. Either way, it's a totally worthwhile nature hike; all the friends, and children I have brought along on this hike seemed to have enjoyed it.

If you are looking for a steeper, more strenuous (elevation gain of 1000 Ft), but not too lengthy hike with beautiful views then I'd check out Cathedral Rock in Kyle Canyon/Mt Charleston.

If you are interested in seeing wild horses, and possibly some herds of Elk, and are up for a beautiful, but fairly strenuous hike(2300 Ft. elevation gain), and a long day, then consider Bonanza Peak (Cold Springs/Spring Mt. Range).

If you are feeling really energetic,(4000 Ft. elevation gain) have all day, and want to hike to the highest point in Southern Nevada, which rewards you with awesome panoramic views for hundreds of miles, then Charleston Peak is the answer, but here's quite a bit of snow up there right now. I have done that hike in knee deep snow (took 12 hours round trip; 3-4 extra hours more than usual, due to snow) via North loop trail, and I wouldn't recommend it in those conditions; the trail was not visible.

The most popular "touristy" hikes up at Charleston, besides Bristlecone, and Cathedral Rock:

Fletcher Canyon (great for flora, and fauna)
MaryJane Falls (seasonal waterfall)
and Big Falls(seasonal waterfall)

If you need more hikes listed, then holler. : )

Thanks ya'll.......the info is perfect. I'll search for maps/directions and trailhead locations. You are very gracious.
-Bernard