If you look at my Instagram feed, you’ll notice that many of my travel shots are taken at sunrise. This isn’t because I love waking up early, this is because there is something magical about that morning light. And also… the other tourists aren’t up yet, making it a great time to get some one-on-one time with your destination. Even if you’re not planning on taking pictures on your trip, it’s nice to experience destinations without loads of other people around you. When you look at the Seven Magic Mountains on Instagram, most photos are populated with people in the background.
If you decide to visit the Seven Magic Mountains, please leave no trace.
About the Seven Magic Mountains
First things first, this is not just a bunch of colorful rocks someone put in the desert. It’s actually a very thoughtful art installation. The art piece was constructed by Ugo Rondinone. This piece is a critique on destinations such as Las Vegas and was placed midway between the artificial (Las Vegas) and the natural world (the desert).
The piece, as colorful and beautiful as it is, clearly acts as an invasive opposition to the natural surroundings. You’ll read many reviews claiming the art installation is an eyesore on the natural landscape, but isn’t that what all cities are? As beautiful as a city can be, every city is mankind’s scar on the surface of the Earth. This piece acts as a reminder that humans have left many marks on the natural surface of our beautiful Earth. Perhaps this will it inspire you to only purchase from brands that are eco-friendly, or that give back to repairing our Earth.
How to Get There
There are no restrooms on site, so just be prepared if you're shy about peeing in the bushes. There is also no place to get water onsite, make sure you bring lots! Remember this public art piece is in the middle of the desert, you’ll want to stay hydrated.
From the parking lot, there is a dirt path that leads you to the sculpture.
Driving There
From Las Vegas: Follow I-15 S to Sloan Rd (exit 25). Turn left (east) to Las Vegas Boulevard. Drive approximately 7 miles south on Las Vegas Blvd. and the artwork will appear on your left (east).
From Los Angeles: Drive north on I-15 to Jean, NV (exit 12). Turn right (east) on NV-161 toward Las Vegas Blvd. Drive approximately 5 miles north on Las Vegas Blvd. and the artwork will appear on your right (east).
Please park in the onsite parking lot. Street parking is discouraged. No public transportation is available to the installation site.
What are your thoughts on this art installation?
Travel on lovelies,
Nikki