Jason and I really enjoyed valley of fire state park, but by the time we actually got our shit together and drove down there it was noon and the sun was overhead and the lighting for my photos was pretty much crap.  So the next morning we all piled into mom’s Lexus (including the parents this time!) and drove there in the dark to catch the sunrise!

If you’re ever in Vegas and don’t want to gamble, this park isn’t far from there and more than worth the day trip for some hiking. (be sure to bring a LOT of water and sunscreen!)