MJF001
Location: 36.2668724, -115.6619644
From the Mary Jane Falls Trailhead follow the gravel path to the northwest; it's a steady climb ahead.
MJF002
Location: 36.2740333, -115.6710362
The trail grade increases on the switchback climb.
MJF003
Location: 36.2764205, -115.6708109
As the trees thin, the first views of the cave appear ahead. Look to the southeast for impressive views down Kyle Canyon.
MJF004
Location: 36.2761092, -115.6702584
The trail meets the limestone rock face. Continue straight at the switchback onto a small spur trail for a different perspective overlooking Kyle Canyon.
MJF005
Location: 36.2754605, -115.6697702
This vantage point offers more views into Kyle Canyon. Next, return to Waypoint 7 and bear right, heading north toward Mary Jane Falls.
MJF006
Location: 36.2762173, -115.6702477
The switchbacks give way to rock stairs as the trail meets the limestone headwalls. The terrain levels ahead.
MJF007
Location: 36.2784358, -115.6715727
Mary Jane Falls: Depending on the season, you'll find either a stream or a sprinkle of water trickling down the limestone wall. Behind the falls, you'll catch awe-inspiring views of Mount Charleston and a glimpse of nearby Big Falls. (Mount Charleston, covered in snow until late May, is the highest peak in southern Nevada's Spring Mountain Range.) Explore the caves around the falls, then hike west on the narrow, gravelly path to visit a larger cave.
MJF008
Location: 36.2781461, -115.6733483
This larger cave marks the end of the trail. When you're finished exploring, turn around and head back to trailhead.
Trailhead
Location: 36.2668798, -115.6618416
Path
Location: 36.2677275, -115.6629789
Aspens
Location: 36.2684282, -115.6640196
Limestone Rock
Location: 36.2711443, -115.6674314
Kyle Canyon View
Location: 36.2754518, -115.6696522
Looking down the canyon.
Cave View
Location: 36.2764119, -115.6707466
Mary Jane Falls
Location: 36.2772422, -115.6703925
At the Falls
Location: 36.2784185, -115.6714547
There's more to Las Vegas than just bright lights and $8.99 surf-and-turf specials. Just 45 miles north of town, immerse yourself in the spectacular natural beauty of the area by hiking to Mary Jane Falls. This moderately strenuous, out-and-back trail culminates at a 50-foot waterfall (and several caves) and offers views of the regal Mount Charleston.
The well-marked trail starts by winding through a deep canyon lined with ponderosa pines, mountain mahogany, white fir, and aspens. Around mile 0.75, the trail delves into a series of sharp switchbacks that offer magnificent views of Kyle Canyon.
Following the switchbacks, gray limestone cliffs form the backdrop for Mary Jane Falls, which are fed by springs and snow. Though the falls are most vibrant in early spring, it's best to explore the caves once the snow has melted in the summer.
Even miles away from Las Vegas, it's likely you'll run into other groups on this well-traveled trail. And though hikers of all fitness levels can complete the hike, be prepared for the challenge of climbing nearly 1,000 feet in under two miles. Expect cooler weather beginning in October, and look out for snow and ice on the trail during the winter and early spring.
-Mapped by Chelise Simmons