In 1992, a simple UNLV student marketing project sparked the beginning of a remarkable journey for Jared and Heather Fisher. Tasked with creating a business concept for an untapped market, the Fishers’ idea has blossomed into Escape Adventures, a premier nature touring company based in Las Vegas. Specializing in guided mountain biking and hiking excursions through Red Rock Canyon, Lake Tahoe, and beyond, the company has become a local favorite over the past three decades.
From humble beginnings with just two bikes and a vision, Escape Adventures has evolved into a thriving enterprise with over 500 rental mountain bikes and a sister retail cycling shop, Las Vegas Cyclery, in Summerlin. Jared Fisher reflects on the remarkable growth of their business, estimating that they have led more than 100,000 individuals on unforgettable tours. Red Rock Canyon, often referred to as “the gem of Nevada” by Fisher, remains the most sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
“When I first started, it was already known as a world-renowned rock climbing destination, but mountain biking was kind of in its embryo stages,” Fisher recalls. “It was starting to become more popular in the early ’90s, but it hadn’t taken off too much yet. At the time, I saw it as a tourism need that we could fill.” With limited mountain biking trails at Red Rock, Fisher and his team collaborated with the Bureau of Land Management and local land managers to expand the network of trails. As Las Vegas experienced rapid growth, so did the outdoor recreation opportunities in the region.
Despite the increasing accessibility to outdoor spaces in Southern Nevada, Fisher remains a strong advocate for guided tours as the ultimate way to experience the beauty of Red Rock Canyon. “It sounds biased, but I honestly don’t think there’s a better way to do it,” Fisher asserts. “Having a professional guide takes away all the worrying and guesswork. They can give you a full education on the vegetation and geology you’ll see, all while taking you out on the best ride possible. And because you’re all taking one van and sharing bikes, it’s also a more sustainable experience.”
For those interested in embarking on a guided mountain biking adventure through Red Rock Canyon or other scenic locations, Escape Adventures offers a range of tour options. To learn more about their tours and booking information, visit their website at escapeadventures.org.
Preserving Natural Spaces
As the popularity of outdoor activities continues to rise in Southern Nevada, conservation efforts play a vital role in maintaining the pristine beauty of places like Red Rock Canyon. By adhering to the seven conservation principles of Leave No Trace, visitors can minimize their impact on the environment and ensure that these natural spaces remain unspoiled for future generations to enjoy. Escape Adventures prioritizes environmental stewardship and educates participants on responsible outdoor practices during their guided tours.
Expert Insights and Personal Touch
Tyler Schneider, a staff writer at Las Vegas Weekly, highlights the transformative journey of Escape Adventures and the enduring legacy of its founders, Jared and Heather Fisher. Schneider’s journalistic exploration delves into the passion and dedication that drive the Fishers to provide unforgettable outdoor experiences for their clients. Through expert interviews and personal anecdotes, the article captures the essence of Escape Adventures’ guided mountain bike tours and the profound impact they have on both individuals and the local community.
Tyler Schneider joined the Las Vegas Weekly team as a staff writer in 2025. His journalism career began with the…
