Drive or take tour bus to Hoover Dam

WE are renting a car when we head to Vegas. Is it a good idea to just drive there for a tour of Hoover Dam, or should we get on one of those tours that pick us up at the hotel.

Thoughts?

Drive or take tour bus to Hoover Dam

Its a very easy drive there. However, we timed it to be there when everything opened (gift shop, tours) and within an hour of being there, there was a traffic jam coming into the place. Parking relatively close to everything is limited, so get there early.

Drive or take tour bus to Hoover Dam

As long as you have rented the car already... drive out to Hoover Dam on your own. I thought it was cheaper to rent a car even for one day than it was for two or more people to take the tour bus. Take a picnic lunch and visit Valley of Fire after Hoover Dam, both can be visited in one day. Valley of Fire is a beautiful drive even if you don%26#39;t want to get out and do some hiking. Some tour buses go here too. Food is not available in the Park but there is a Park staffed info. center with restrooms.

Taking the tour, you are on their schedule - not yours! What if on the way you see a great site you wish you could stop at (and you will) Enjoy the day - don%26#39;t run on anyone elses schedule but your own - rent a car, and call Hoover Dam scheduling to arrange your own time to tour the dam. You will enjoy it more.

Another stupid question... Can you do the Hoover Dam and REd Rock Canyon in one day? Is it far between the two?

Is it probable - as long as you have your running shoes on and don%26#39;t plan on staying at any one place long. Hoover Dam traffic can get backed up -especially if they are running security checks at the time.