Blue Diamond, Nevada, is a one-of-a-kind location. It’s a must-see stop if you’re taking a road trip through the state. With history and natural beauty, you may spend more time in this small town than you planned.
Please keep reading to learn more about Blue Diamond and its top sights. By the end, you’ll see why we think this gem is worth a visit.
Let’s dig in!
About Blue Diamond, Nevada
Blue Diamond, Nevada, is a census-designated place with a population of about 200 people. That’s a small town! However, tucked away in a valley of the Spring Mountain Range in Red Rock Canyon, it’s a beautiful oasis only a short 20-mile drive from bustling Las Vegas.
Outdoor enthusiasts love to escape to Blue Diamond to be one with nature, even for a short time. There are many opportunities in the area for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. This gem of a town serves as a welcoming base.
Originally Cottonwood Springs, Blue Diamond was part of the Old Spanish Trail for traders in the mid-nineteenth century and a former mining town. The trail went from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to California. The Paiute people initially used the area around Blue Diamond for agriculture.
Then, in 1923, the Blue Diamond Materials Company bought the land and started mining for gypsum. Soon, the area was a company town to house miners and run their operations. In 1965, they began shutting down operations and selling the housing to the public.
What’s the Elevation Of Blue Diamond, Nevada?
The elevation of Blue Diamond, Nevada, is 3,383 feet. While it sits at the foothills of the Spring Mountain Range, it’s still at a significant elevation.
The mountain range averages around 5,410 feet high. Athletes and adventures appreciate the height and desert atmosphere for training and exercise. With the frequent sunshine in Nevada, you’ll find consistent opportunities to enjoy the land.
What Is There to Do in Blue Diamond, Nevada?
Blue Diamond, Nevada, is a tiny town, but there are still things to do. You can stay active in and around town, from excellent food to outdoor recreation.
Let’s look at five activities and attractions in Blue Diamond.
Breakfast At Cottonwood Station
Cottonwood Station is the perfect place to start your day in Blue Diamond, Nevada. The quaint eatery has excellent food and fantastic views of the Spring Mountains from its outdoor patio.
Cottonwood Station specializes in artisan pizzas, breakfast paninis, and homemade baked goods. Most of their ingredients are locally sourced.
We recommend stopping for breakfast and starting with a multigrain toast with fig ricotta cheese, apple slices, walnuts, and honey drizzle. Then, fuel up before a hike with their breakfast panini or pizza.
For ample protein, get the breakfast bowl with eggs, cheese, potatoes, and pico de gallo. And don’t forget the coffee!
Old Spanish Trail Hike
The Old Spanish Trail is a moderate 5.9-mile out and back hike. It starts in Blue Diamond and is an ideal way to explore the Spring Mountains. Since it’s an out-and-back trail, you can go as far as you want without doing the entire hike one way.
You can hike, bike, or run on the trail. The best time to use the Old Spanish Trail is September through May. The summer months tend to have grueling high temperatures.
You can leave on your hike after your breakfast at Cottonwood Station and return in time for a picnic at Blue Diamond Park in the afternoon.
Traveler’s Tip: Explore these hair-raising ghost towns in Nevada.
Picnic At Blue Diamond Park
Blue Diamond Park is the perfect place for a picnic. You might even spot some wild donkeys! The park has restrooms, picnic tables, open grass areas for sitting, a playground, a skate park, and a baseball field.
The park is an excellent place to stop for a rest as you explore Blue Diamond. It has views of the mountains and is only a short drive from Red Rock Canyon.
Visit Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is worth exploring on a visit to Blue Diamond, Nevada. Its geological wonders are viewable from a 13-mile scenic drive.
You’ll have incredible views of the rocks, plants, and wildlife. And Red Rock Canyon is a great place to hike and camp. In addition, there is a visitor’s center with exhibits and information on cultural resources and the area’s history.
Red Rock Canyon has multiple hiking trails for varying skill levels. One of the most popular is the Moenkopi Loop, an easy two-mile loop. It starts at the visitor’s center and takes you along a limestone ridge. You can see Triassic fossils and a variety of desert flora along the loop.
Shop At Cactus Joe’s Blue Diamond Plant Nursery
Shopping at Cactus Joe’s Blue Diamond Plant Nursery is an excellent way to meet locals and take home a souvenir. In addition to large plants and lawn accessories, they carry small cacti and unique items that will fit in your car or suitcase.
If you prefer not to purchase something, it’s worth walking around to see the wide variety of cacti and plants. You might even learn something new about desert flora.
Is Blue Diamond, Nevada, Worth Visiting?
Blue Diamond, Nevada, is a unique gem worth visiting. It exemplifies a desert small-town and may turn into your new retreat away from the city.
Plan a day trip from Las Vegas is possible, or if you’re passing through, explore the town for a few hours. At the very least, have a bite to eat at Cottonwood Station.
Will you add Blue Diamond, Nevada, to your road trip itinerary?
Valley of Fire on the east side of Vegas has more vivid color than Red Rock Canyon in my opinion.