Searchlight is just a pit stop for many travelers — a place to fill up on gas while driving to or from Las Vegas on U.S. Route 95, then moving on. With a population of roughly 300, Searchlight is known as a living ghost town. It was the birthplace of Nevada’s most influential U.S. senator, the late Harry Reid, who referred to himself as a “Son of Searchlight.” But, I found lots to do in the earea. Here’s a list, ranked from most to least favorite.
Hike Grapevine Canyon
The area around Searchlight is the ancestral homelands of the Mojave, Chemehuevi, and Southern Paiute people. Just southeast of the town is a sacred holy site, Avi Kwa Ame National Monument, also known as Spirit Mountain.
From Searchlight, head south to Nevada State Route 163, then go east. Take Christmas Tree Pass Road to Grapevine Canyon Road. Once you park, the canyon is a quarter-mile west. To your right are boulders with petroglyphs and pictographs dating back to 1200-1800. Take your time looking, but do not climb on or touch the boulders. Continue through the canyon and you’ll find amazing rock formations, along with pink, purple, and yellow flowers and grapevines growing along the base of the mountain.
Stargazing Cottonwood Cove
Once it gets dark, head east to Cottonwood Cove Road, then take it down to Cottonwood Cove, on the Colorado River. By that time, you should be able to skip the toll, and you’ll be just far enough in to stargaze on the pier. I liked a spot just in front of the café. Face your folding chair away from the lights of Las Vegas to enjoy constellations such as Orion’s Belt and the Big and Little dippers next to the calm water.
View Walking Box Ranch
West of Searchlight is Walking Box Ranch, where famous silent film actors Clara Bow and Rex Bell built their home without a phone to escape Hollywood. To visit, plan ahead — the ranch is usually only open on the first Saturday of the month. (Check the Friends of Avi Kwa Ame events page to see when the ranch is open.) Tours are typically combined with another event. The ranch is in the process of adding original furniture back to the Spanish Revival home, which should complete the experience.
EatTerrible’s Casino
“Best pizza in town” claims a banner on the Terrible’s casino/McDonald’s/gas station. To get some, make your way to the bar on the casino floor, past Terrible himself. The effort is worth it; it’s a good pizza. You can add most toppings for 75 cents each — but skip the pickle chips. Enjoy the nine TVs in the lounge while you eat.
Stay BV Motel
To check in at the BV you’ll have to stop by Room 7. At least, that’s what the sign at the front office advised when I stayed there. Just be sure to check your rooms. Some might come with an open bottle of tequila … or tenants. I recommend looking for a place to camp.
