Seven Magic Mountains: The Ultimate Guide

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Just outside of Las Vegas, the Seven Magic Mountains tower above the desert floor against the backdrop of the McCullough and Goodsprings Mountains.

Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone the public art exhibit features seven thirty to thirty-five foot pillars of boldly colored boulders.

The exhibit unveiled in May 2016 was intended as a two-year public art project. But the popularity of the unique, unforgettable towers of vibrant color, persuaded the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to extend the permit through the end of 2021.

Seven Magic Mountains is an easy day trip from Las Vegas, family-friendly, pet-friendly, and Instagram worthy.

It’s also one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas.

Seven Magic Mountains Cost

Seven Magic Mountains is free and open 24 hours a day.

Pro-tip: You can listen to the free audio guide, available in English and Spanish, by calling 702-381-5182.

Parking at Seven Magic Mountains

Parking at Seven Magic Mountains is free. The parking lot is fairly large but it can get crowded during peak season. If you can’t find a spot, don’t park on the street because it’s not safe. Semitrucks travel that two-lane road. Better to wait until someone leaves and then take their spot vs chancing getting hit.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Seven Magic Mountains is early in the morning if you want to avoid crowds. If you want rich vibrant photos, visit in the late afternoon. And if you want the 7 Magic Mountains all to yourself plan your trip for early in the morning on a weekday in the off-season.

What to Know Before You Visit

There are no bathrooms or any type of services. The closest restrooms are 5 miles away in Jean, Nevada.

Flash floods and monsoons are possible from June to September so check the weather report before you visit.

Although the exhibit is open 24 hours a day, camping is not allowed.

Seven Magic Mountains is in the desert and there isn’t any shade. No trees, no large bushes. The only shade you get is what’s cast from the sculptures.

The sculptures are 100 yards or so, several minutes’ walk from the parking lot.

Pro-tip: Watch out for rattlesnakes.

What to Bring to Seven Magic Mountains

Be sure to include these items when you’re packing for your trip to Las Vegas.

Sunscreen & Hat

Be sure to wear and bring sunscreen and a hat or some type of covering for your head. The desert sun is brutal.

Water

You should bring plenty of water. The desert is dry and it gets very hot especially during the summer.

Camera or Phone

Whether or not you have an Instagram account, you’ll want to take a few photos so bring a camera or phone.

Professional photography gear such as tripods, external light sources, etc. aren’t allowed. Photography can only be taken for personal use.

Directions to Seven Magic Mountains

Here’s how to get to Seven Magic Mountains.

If you’re coming from San Diego or Los Angeles, take the 1-15 North to Jean, Nevada, exit 12. Turn right on Nevada 161 toward Las Vegas Boulevard. Then drive about 5 miles and the Seven Magic Mountains will be on your right.

If you’re coming from Las Vegas, take the I-15 South to Sloan Road, exit 25. You’ll turn left on Las Vegas Boulevard and drive about 7 miles. The sculpture is on the left side of the road.

Conclusion

Just outside of Las Vegas, Seven Magic Mountains is an easy day trip from Las Vegas, family-friendly, and Instagram worthy. It’s also one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas.

The seven brightly colored stacked boulder towers are free to visit and open 24 hours a day. When planning your trip, be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.

Have you visited the Seven Magic Mountains?

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