With near-perfect weather in Southern Nevada, experienced dirt bike riders are making plans to hit Las Vegas. There is only one licensed dirt bike tour company in Nevada, but the route is one of the most expansive anywhere in the American Southwest.

It includes an exhilarating ride though Hidden Valley, Jean Roach Dry Lake Bed, and the rugged McCullough Mountain Range. The McCullough range is unique in Nevada because it is one of the few that was created by volcanic activity.

"Riders can expect rounded and flat-topped peaks that provide sweeping views," says James Hoke, president of TourGuy.com LLC. "The eastern slope of the chain has a steep escarpment. The western side has a gradual slope. Personally, the dry lake bed is my favorite part."

Remote Dry Lake Beds.

At the Jean Roach Dry Lake Bed, there are 20 miles of trail, with a few hazards, small jumps, and steep hills. Mostly, this portion of the tour is considered novice terrain, allowing bikers to open up the throttle.

"Just less than ten years ago, one lucky visitor from California found a single, fusion-crusted and oriented stone, weighing 10.13 grams," said Hoke. "It was a meteorite. In fact, there have been about ten of them found out here, mostly between 1998 and 2002. I suspect there are more."

Hoke said that the area is especially exciting for riders who take in the sites. The entire area is home to desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, quail, and chukar. Depending on the elevation, riders will see plenty of Mojave scrub, yucca, Joshua trees, and even some Pinyon junipers. Some trails pass remnants of the Old West and signs of prehistoric people who lived in the area.

"Some people say they don't see much, but in such a great expanse with tours ranging from 20 to 50 miles, each group has totally unique experiences," said Hoke. "Most people go to ride and have fun, but you can find some amazing sights on the trail too. And you never know what you might find if you look closely enough."

Historic Race Tracks.

In addition to the locations above, most riders also travel along tracks cut out by two famous races in Nevada. These include the old Mint 400 and Primm 300 races. The Mint 400 was orginally sponsored by the Mint Hotel from 1968 through 1988 and included people like Mickey Thompson (who would go on to create S.C.O.R.E.), Bobby and Al Unser, and television stars James Garner and Lee Majors. The race is held every spring, organized by SNORE.

The Primm 300 was just recently held in the area. Many of the riders have one more race ahead from Ensenada to La Paz this November. Jesse Jones took first in class and first overall despite blowing a tire on the second lap.

Tour Information

The early half-day tour departs at approximately 9 a.m. in October and November and 10 a.m. in December and January. Afternoon tours are also available. Tours are generally five to six hours in length.

The excursion is meant for experienced dirt bike riders and they are encouraged to bring their own gear. (Goggles, gloves, and helmets are available.) Riders must be at least 16 years of age.

For less experienced riders, TourGuy.com offers other off-road adventures in Las Vegas. One of the tours includes beginner courses. For complete details, visit TourGuy.com