Need some help from Western folks

[Hutch]

In the past few TAMS I have either organized or participated in trips outside the Strip in Las Vegas. But having seen Hoover Dam, Red Rocks, and the Grand Canyon in the past several years, I would like to branch out and see something I haven't seen, something that can be done (or at least sampled) on a 1-day excursion.

Looking at the map I see 4 sites that look interesting and are less than 200 Miles from Las Vegas. They are (in no particular order):

1. Zion National Park
2. Death Valley National Park
3. Mojave National Preserve
4. Joshua Tree National Park

Trouble is, I have never been to any of these places and have no idea which would be the best "value for time". Like I said, this would be a 1-day shot, leaving about 6am on the Monday after TAM and getting back to Vegas whenever.

Any thoughts, opinions, or facts would be welcome. And since I'll have a minivan, anyone who wants to lobby for a location (as long as they get to ride along)...is welcome.

Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[Hokulele]

I took my Dad and brother to Death Valley during TAM 5, and it was an easy day trip. However, June is a completely different kettle of horses of a different color from January. You may want to stick closer to the car (and A/C) than we did, and keep plenty of water on hand.

It is certainly well worth the trip!

Other recommendations for things to do close to town include Bonnie Springs (Old West show, horseback trailrides, and petting zoo) and Mount Charleston (hiking, biking, and getting out of the heat).

 

[DiskoVilante]

Oh jeez Hutch...they're all beautiful locations.
Maybe you should flip a coin?

 

[TsarBomba]

I have always wanted to take a tour of the Atomic Test Site. The tours are always on Wednesdays, but unfortunately they have a tour on the Wednesday after TAM. In case anyone is interested, here is a link to the DOE's website: http://http://www.nv.doe.gov/nts/default.htm