Just a short drive west from Las Vegas are the dramatic landscapes of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. The red sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, Native American petroglyphs, and spectacular rock formations make for great photography, and there are any number of athletic excursions and group tours that you can embark on. Try a kayak, take a horseback ride, rent a mountain bike, or just go for a hike; even the least outdoorsy types will enjoy the natural beauty of this spot.