Seven Magic Mountains

Seven Magic Mountains is one of the most recognizable roadside stops outside Las Vegas, but this route adds an off-road twist to the experience. Instead of taking the standard paved-road approach to the colorful desert art installation, this trail follows a more adventurous route through open Mojave Desert terrain before reaching the exhibit. The backway into Seven Magic Mountains trail is relatively easy and approachable for most high-clearance vehicles. Expect desert two-track, sandy and rocky sections, and a few loose rock hill climbs that add just enough challenge to keep the drive interesting. In dry conditions, the route is manageable for newer off-roaders, but drivers should still watch for soft sand, loose traction, and changing desert conditions after wind or storms. As the route moves across the desert landscape, it passes through the Jean/Roach Dry Lake area before connecting toward Seven Magic Mountains. The wide-open terrain gives the drive a remote feel, with long sightlines, desert mountains in the distance, and a much different perspective than visitors get from the paved access road. The destination is worth the dust. Seven Magic Mountains is a large-scale public art installation by artist Ugo Rondinone, featuring seven towers of brightly painted stacked boulders rising from the desert floor. First opened in 2016, the artwork has become a landmark for travelers between Las Vegas and Jean, Nevada, blending bold color with the surrounding Mojave landscape. This is a great route for off-roaders looking for an easy desert drive with a unique payoff at the end. Bring water, download your maps before you go, and be prepared for limited shade, high temperatures, and changing desert conditions. The exhibit itself can be busy, so expect more traffic near the paved access area and respect the artwork, other visitors, and the surrounding desert.