Valley of Fire Fire Wave Sandstone Formation

The Fire Wave is a spectacular sandstone formation in Valley of Fire State Park where millions of years of wind and water erosion created undulating, wave-like patterns in brilliant red Aztec sandstone. The formation gets its name from how the striated rock appears to be frozen flames, especially during golden hour when the entire formation seems to glow from within. It’s a relatively easy 1.5-mile round-trip hike from the parking area.

Access is via paved park roads from Interstate 15, about 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas. The formation requires no permits beyond park entry, but gets extremely hot in summer with temperatures exceeding 115°F. Best photographed in early morning or late afternoon light. No shade on the trail, so bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Wave-like sandstone formations that glow like fire