LAKE MEAD NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

MARK HNAT BELIEVES the diversity at Lake Mead National Recreation Area makes it unique in the Park Service. Katherine Landing offers the stereotypical lake experience, with motorboats and Jet Skis, while those who want to avoid crowds head for Temple Bar. In between lie spots for fishing, hiking, canyoneering and backcountry driving. But Hnat’s favorite area is Lake Mohave, between Hoover Dam and Willow Beach. Though technically a lake, the dammed stretch of the Colorado River passing through Black Canyon is riveresque, with narrow passages and high canyon walls. “The thing that’s nice about that is you slow down the pace,” says Hnat, the park’s deputy chief ranger. Motorized boats are banned two days a week, making it easier to spot bighorn sheep and other wildlife. Side canyons — with thermal pools, warm waterfalls and a cave that glows like a jewel — provide highlights along the way.