7 MAGIC MOUNTAINS PUNCTUATE VEGAS DESERT

You’re driving north along Interstate 15, excited to finally be about a half hour from Las Vegas when seemingly out of nowhere, you glance to your right and see something other than a billboard promoting the latest Sin City nightlife. Seven totems of colorful rocks, resembling bean bag chairs, punctuate the barren desert. Must be the unforgiving heat. You’re imaging things. But you’re not. In fact this is what Swiss artist Uno Rondinone imagined when he created this one-of-a-kind art installation. He sees it as physically and symbolically representing mid-way between the natural environment and the artificial one. The seven 30 to 35 foot dayglow towers are made from painted, locally-sourced boulders. They were installed in 2016, intended for a two-year run but still drawing crowds.

The exhibit is free to visit, plenty of parking and there’s usually a food truck selling water and ice cream. Pets are allowed but no climbing the structures. The closest restrooms are about 5 miles away in Jean, Nevada. Technically the site is open 24 hours but you’re not going see the much at night since it’s not spotlighted. Bring water and sunscreen. You’ll probably be there a half hour or so, mainly for photos. If you’re with kids plan on a bit longer as they enjoy darting between the towers. It can get busy so best to visit earlier in the day, especially if it’s summer and you prefer avoiding the soaring temps.

If you’re driving from Las Vegas take Sloan Rd off the I-15 S and turn left to Las Vegas Blvd. Make a right and you’ll head about 7 miles south before you see it on the left. If you decide to stop once you’ve noticed it from the freeway, you’ve probably passed the nearest exit. Otherwise when you’re driving by very small Jean, NV, turn right on NV-161 toward Las Vegas blvd and head north about 5 miles. Can’t miss it. Honestly this isn’t something you want to plan your whole day around, kind of a one and done attraction. If you don’t have a car your best bet it to take a guided day tour of popular Vegas area sites, this among them. If you have a car there are a couple other attractions not too far, even a Starbucks! If you need a coffee or some shade, when you exit the parking lot, head south on Las Vegas Blvd for about 6 miles. Just before the Terrible Herbst Truck Plaza turn right on Goodsprings Rd. Cross over the freeway and you’ll see Starbucks on the right.

If you’re looking for a bit of western history, stay on Goodsprings Rd and drive about 10 min further to Pioneer Saloon, opened in 1913 and considered the oldest bar in the Las Vegas area. It’s been used in film shoots, music videos and TV shows. The general store next door is small, selling t-shirts and souvenirs. Steeped in history, the bar offers food and a solid selection of booze. The town of Goodsprings is home to about 200 residents. More on the Pioneer in a separate article.

When you’re headed back to Vegas, if you’re hungry, consider stopping at the South Point. This hotel/casino is right off I-15 and offers a decent buffet. Take the Silverado Ranch Blvd exit. It’s the first major hotel you’ll see when headed into town.  If you’re with energetic kids or grandkids, visit the upstairs 64-lane bowling center, open until 2am. Parking at this 60 acre property is free. Enjoy your day!