Harder layers in colorful sandstone weather out as prominent “fins" and even more intricate and bizarre shapes.

An unusual slot canyon in the Aztec/Navajo Sandstone has a cross-section like an inverted old-fashioned keyhole.

An unexpected sinkhole in a desert flat within Gold Butte National Monument.

This Stonehenge-inspired solar calendar stands alongside a landfill, in the middle of the Nevada desert.

Preserving the remains of Native American cultures which otherwise would have been submerged behind Hoover Dam.

This massive geographical sculpture is so subtle, it's possible to pass by it without noticing.

This former Mormon settlement is reemerging from the receding waters of Lake Mead.

Nearly 300,000 acres of wildlife, natural splendor, and a hidden ghost town have been designated a national monument.

Named after an outlaw who used the basin as a hideout.

This hidden, women-built-and-operated Nevada temple on Shoshone Native American land is dedicated to the Egyptian lion goddess Sekhmet among other goddesses.

Formerly frequented by Hollywood stars and now open for tours.

A hidden slot canyon in the southern Nevada desert makes an unexpected oasis and scenic hike.

The wild west is still alive and well at this authentic mining town watering hole.

A mining town once rife with murderous disputes over its copious treasures now creates income as a popular spot for photo shoots.

The drama of nature in full effect in this Nevada State Park.

These markers are used to document elevation changes around the famed dam.

A Norwegian-born sculptor created these soaring guardian angels at the entrance to Hoover Dam.

Experience a charming 1930's version of "infotainment."

See Hoover Dam and the bypass bridge from a perspective usually off-limits to the public, and float the upper part of the Black Canyon National Water Trail.

Brightly colored 30-foot-tall totems light up the desert sky just outside Las Vegas.

An old railroad grade built for the construction of Hoover Dam is now a recreational trail featuring several tunnels and sweeping views of Lake Mead.

A lovely park home with a few interesting guests.

An ode to one of the dirtiest jobs during the construction of the Boulder Dam.

Improbably, the largest wildlife refuge in the conterminous 48 states sits just northwest of Las Vegas, Nevada.