Adventure brief
Big Dig Excavator
Take control of massive excavators in Las Vegas with Dig This. Learn to operate heavy machinery, dig trenches, stack tires, and even play Excavator Basketball — all in a safe, climate-controlled setting.
In the heart of Nevada’s Mojave Desert near Las Vegas, Dig This offers a hands-on adventure unlike any other. More than a thrill ride, the Big Dig Excavator experience puts you in the driver’s seat of some of the largest excavators in North America, including machines named Jake and Thor. This isn’t just about heavy equipment; it’s about mastering the controls, feeling the power of hydraulics, and moving massive objects in a way few get to try.
Set on a sprawling 7-acre outdoor site, Dig This operates large machines in a safe and climate-controlled environment. Each 90-minute session begins with a safety briefing, ensuring every participant, from age 12 and up, understands the basics before stepping into the cab. Once behind the joystick controls, you’ll tackle tasks like digging trenches, stacking 2,000-pound tires, and even competing in “Excavator Basketball” – a unique challenge that turns earth-moving into a game.
The area around Dig This is defined by its stark desert landscape, where rugged terrain and open skies stretch wide. Operating these mechanical giants here contrasts sharply with the neon-lit cityscapes of nearby Las Vegas. This experience blends outdoor adventure with machine mastery in an unexpected way, offering city visitors a chance to engage with the natural environment through purposeful, hands-on work.
What sets Dig This apart is its commitment to accessibility and expert guidance. No construction background, driver’s license, or previous machine experience is needed. Your instructor stays connected via headset throughout, coaching every move and ensuring safety.
Climate control in the cabins offers comfort regardless of Nevada’s seasonal extremes. For those seeking something off the beaten path beside hiking and climbing around Vegas, the Big Dig Excavator experience adds an industrial twist to outdoor recreation. It’s a place to challenge yourself, build confidence, and leave with genuine achievement — plus a story few can match.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear Closed-Toe Shoesessential
Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is required for safety while operating the excavators.
- 02No Driver’s License Neededinfo
You don’t need prior licensing or construction experience to participate.
- 03Stay Hydratedwarning
Nevada’s dry climate can dehydrate you quickly, so bring water before your session.
- 04Use Headset Communicationessential
Communicate clearly with your instructor via wireless headset for smooth guidance and safety.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Closed-Toe Shoes
Protect your feet and meet safety requirements while operating heavy machinery.
EssentialLight Jacket or Layer
Bring extra layers for cooler desert mornings or evenings, especially outside the cab.
fall|winter|springWater Bottle
Stay hydrated in the arid desert climate before and after your session.
summer|spring|fallEssentialSunglasses
Protect your eyes from the bright Nevada sun when outside the climate-controlled cab.
summer|spring|fallLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Nearby Sunset Park for lightweight hiking and picnics, The Springs Preserve for local desert ecology exhibits
Local fauna
Desert cottontail rabbits, Roadrunner birds
Historic heritage
The area around Las Vegas has a rich history of mining and earth-moving industries, which inspires the heavy machinery theme at Dig This.
Mindful exploration
Dig This maintains sustainable site practices by minimizing environmental impact and educating visitors on safe equipment handling.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From the operator cabs for close-up machine shots, Overlook areas surrounding the site for wide desert landscapes, Pit edge where tire stacking takes place
- Subjects
- Heavy machinery close-ups, Operator interactions, Desert terrain and sky
- Best times
- Golden hour at sunrise or sunset, Late morning for vibrant light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need any prior experience to operate the excavators?
No experience or driver’s license is required; expert instructors guide you throughout the session.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 12 years old to join the Big Dig Excavator experience.
Are the excavators comfortable to operate in extreme weather?
Yes, the cabs are climate-controlled with heating and air conditioning to keep you comfortable year-round.
How long does the experience last?
Each session is 90 minutes, including safety training, operation time, and a graduation ceremony.
Is this activity suitable for groups or families?
Yes, groups of 2-3 can operate side-by-side with headset communication, making it a great family or group outing.
What should I wear during the experience?
Closed-toe shoes are mandatory; comfortable outdoor clothing and layers are recommended for weather variations.