Very, very steep indeed.  Just take your time and bring hiking poles...if ever a hike was appropriate for them it is this one.  I only fell once.  A friend might not hurt too.  Seriously, this hike is for people who like the torture of serious uphill and find satisfaction in incredible views in all directions.  This is a pivotal spot to get your bearings in Las Vegas.  You park on the south side of Lake Mead Boulevard at a shut gate that is basically just trying to keep trespassers from driving up (even the lazy want to see good views).  It is the most obvious, straight uphill fire road in the area.  It was worth my effort and took no more than 4 hours total with lots of stopping.