Mary Jane Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
700 ft
About Mary Jane Falls
Mary Jane Falls is a popular waterfall located in the Spring Mountains near Las Vegas, Nevada. The falls are fed by snowmelt and are most prominent in the spring and early summer. The area offers scenic views, cooler temperatures compared to the Las Vegas valley, and a rewarding hike to the falls.
The Setting
Mary Jane Falls sits at 8,986 feet within Toiyabe National Forest, in the high alpine of Nevada.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Mary Jane Falls (#25159), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 700 feet of elevation gain with grades of +12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
MARY JANE FALLS #25159
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
1.52 miTrail Description
The trail to Mary Jane Falls is a well-maintained path that begins with a gradual incline through a forested area. After about a mile, the trail becomes steeper with switchbacks leading to the falls. The waterfall is seasonal and may be reduced to a trickle in late summer or fall. The area around the falls features a small cave and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Mary Jane Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mary Jane Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Mary Jane Falls is in the spring or early summer when the snowmelt creates a stronger waterfall flow. Fall is also a good time to visit for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September). Check with Toiyabe National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The trail can be steep and rocky, so proper footwear is essential. Be cautious of loose rocks and uneven surfaces. During winter, snow and ice can make the trail hazardous. Always carry enough water and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day in summer.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 21 miles away
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 38 years of record
2.62 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Mary Jane Falls is located in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, about an hour's drive from Las Vegas. From Las Vegas, take US-95 North to State Route 157 (Kyle Canyon Road) and follow it to the Mary Jane Falls trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking lot at the Mary Jane Falls trailhead. Parking is free, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
Elevation
8986 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.279480° N, -115.671249° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early in the day to avoid crowds and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be exposed to the sun. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be rocky and steep in sections. Check weather conditions before visiting, especially in winter, as snow and ice may make the trail more difficult.
This trail sits at 8,986 ft — the air is noticeably thinner
High AltitudeSome visitors experience headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath at this elevation. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and consider supplemental oxygen if you're coming from a lower altitude.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Boost Oxygen 10L Canister (2-Pack)
Portable supplemental oxygen for quick relief from headaches and shortness of breath.
Altitude Rx OxyBoost Complex
Antioxidant formula designed to support your body's natural altitude acclimation.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.4 miles and 700 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pahrump by IHG
The Retreat on Charleston Peak
Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Casino
Best Western Pahrump Oasis
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
FOXTAIL GRP PICNIC AREA
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Overview Foxtail Group Picnic Area is located in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, just 47 miles from downtown Las Vegas. Visitors enjoy hiking, mountain biking, scenic driving, and winter snowplay in this forested desert oasis.Recreation Hiking and mountain biking are popular activities on the 1.3-mile Sawmill Trail and the 6.2-mile Bristlecone Trail. Both begin just a short drive from Foxtail. When there is at least 12 inches of snow on the ground, Foxtail becomes a winter playgrou
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Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include Cathedral Rock, Fletcher Canyon, and the Mount Charleston Scenic Byway.
Wildlife
The area is home to wildlife such as mule deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds. Be cautious of snakes and other desert wildlife.
Cities near Mary Jane Falls
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