Small Waterfall – Cathedral Rock Trail loop from Mount Charleston
Small Waterfall – Cathedral Rock Trail loop from Mount Charleston
4.9
(4260)
11,702
hikers
Small Waterfall – Cathedral Rock Trail loop from Mount Charleston
01:30
4.44km
230m
Hiking
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Spring Mountains National Recreation Area
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
311 m
South Loop, Echo Canyon, and Cathedral Rock Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
1.54 km
Small Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
2.24 km
Cathedral Rock Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
4.44 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.13 km
237 m
Surfaces
3.80 km
307 m
237 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 25 June
23°C
14°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a high-reward, low-effort escape from the Las Vegas heat, the Small Waterfall – Cathedral Rock Trail loop from Mount Charleston is one of the most popular trails in the area. This easy hiking route covers 2.8 miles (4.4 km) with 748 feet (228 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, making it an excellent choice for a quick, scenic outing.
What to expect on Small Waterfall – Cathedral Rock Trail loop from Mount Charleston
The trail begins with a steady incline through fragrant pine forests, gradually revealing panoramic views of Kyle Canyon and Charleston Peak. As you ascend towards Cathedral Rock, you'll encounter some switchbacks and loose rock, but the path is generally well-maintained. The highlight for many is the detour to Little Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall nestled in a narrow, shaded canyon, offering a refreshing contrast to the higher, exposed sections. This route is perfect for hikers seeking diverse scenery and a good workout without extreme technical challenges, and it's often recommended for altitude conditioning.
Planning your visit
The trailhead is conveniently located about an hour from Las Vegas, offering a high-elevation escape from the desert heat. You'll find restrooms and a large parking lot at the start, though it's always wise to arrive early on busy weekends. This trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option for hiking with your canine companion. Always check current conditions before heading out, as severe weather can impact the trail, and the waterfalls flow strongest in spring and early summer.
Trail details
- Distance: 2.8 miles (4.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 748 feet (228 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 30 minutes
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