With a population size increase of more than 90,000 people over the last ten years, Enterprise is one of the fastest-growing communities in the country, and certainly in Nevada. Although its population size matches that of a big city (over 100,000 residents), Enterprise is still an unincorporated community. It is located in the Las Vegas Valley, which is a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Enterprise's History
Modern-day Enterprise was settled in the early 1900s. However, historical evidence shows that Native Americans, most likely the Paiute tribe, were in the area before settlers arrived. The first settlement in the area was the town of Arden, which was initially a mining community. Members of the community worked in the nearby gypsum mines. Although the area wasn't officially named until later in the 1900s, the unofficial name of "Enterprise" was chosen by settlers around 1918 because the name sounded encouraging and inspiring.
While most towns and municipalities in the area established themselves as cities in the later half of the 20th century, Enterprise went in the opposite direction. In 1996, its town residents chose to officially establish Enterprise as a rural area. This was mainly done to protect and preserve its rural heritage. To residents' relief, the area was allowed to stay in its incorporated state. Its governing body is the Clark County Commission, and it is part of Las Vegas Township for government purposes.
Area Attractions
Considering that its residents fought to retain Enterprise's rural character and natural landscapes, it comes as no surprise that there are many exciting and interesting things to do in the area that revolve around the environment. From parks to recreational areas, here are some of the best places to explore in Enterprise if you're looking to spend some time outdoors.
Seven Magic Mountains
You only need to travel 15 minutes away from Las Vegas to reach this attraction in the Mojave Desert. The Seven Magic Mountains are a towering fixture on the desert landscape. What is perhaps most surprising is that the "mountains" are all man made. The Seven Mountains come with an audio guide and tour that visitors can access through their cell phones. Interpretive signs are also available to describe the exhibit to those who don't have phones on hand.
Spring Mountains Recreation Area
The Spring Mountains are located about an hour north of downtown Las Vegas. One of the things that surprises visitors most about the mountains is that despite the surrounding area's hot, desert-like climate, the mountains actually get snow in the winter. They are, on average, about 20°F cooler than temperatures in the surrounding Valley region. In the wintertime, the area opens for a season of skiing and snowboarding. In the summertime, it's a great place to go if you want to escape the searing desert heat that can sometimes exceed 115°F.
Red Rock Canyon
Of all the natural places to visit in the Las Vegas Valley, one of the most spectacular and well-known is Red Rock Canyon. Red Rock Canyon is maintained by the Bureau of Land Management. It covers thousands of acres and contains a network of trails that start from its visitor's center. There are also campsites available for people looking for a real getaway from city life. A scenic driving loop that extends more than 12 miles and a series of trails are other highlights of Red Rock Canyon. Horseback riding, hiking, and even ATV rides are all modes of transportation through Red Rock Canyon. The area is home to many different types of wildlife and plant life, which means that visitors can look forward to spotting lizards, jackrabbits, eagles, and other forms of wildlife. Some of the most popular recreational activities at Red Rock Canyon are bouldering and bird-watching.
Nature isn't just a commodity at Enterprise, it's a fact of life. Residents of this affluent community are so concerned about their connection with the natural world that they voted to stay unincorporated, even at a time when many other municipalities in the Las Vegas area and around the country are trending towards identifying as cities and urban areas. If you live in Enterprise, it's only fitting then that you also take pride in your property. From gardening to landscaping, there are many ways you can create a beautiful lawn that makes Enterprise proud. For assistance with lawn care, just contact Lawn Love, Enterprise's local lawn care professionals.
