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Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Categories: Active Life Parks Active Life Hiking Public Services & Government Landmarks & Historical Buildings Parks, Hiking, Landmarks & Historical Buildings [Edit]
W Charleston BlvdLas Vegas, NV 89161
(702) 515-5350
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 12 am - 12 am
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
227 reviews for Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Review Highlights
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"It's also a nice scenic drive and has fun places to hike." In 30 reviews -
"I am looking forward to heading back to hit the trails." In 63 reviews -
"The Visitor Center is great for kids." In 16 reviews
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227 reviews in English
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Review from Rochelle R.
Los Angeles, CA
5/10/2012 1 photo
Wow! I've been to Vegas a billion times and never even knew about Red Rock. My mister wanted to continue with our off the beaten path exploration of Vegas, so off we went to Red Rock.
After spending most of the day shopping, it was late in the afternoon, but we still headed out to Red Rock. Me and the little one were a bit tired and truthfully, I could care less if we saw Red Rock or not, but my mister was determined to see it. I searched for the location on my mister's iPhone. After about driving 20 or 30 minutes toward Summerlin, we got to what I thought was our destination...Red Rock Casino and Resort. My mister explained that he was looking for the state park. How was I suppose to know? So, I searched on the iPhone again and found the correct directions, but it looked like it might be closed already since it was 4PM. Not ready to give up, my mister wanted to pass by, just so we'll know where to go next time.
We arrived at the gate, and low and behold, they were still open. Since it's spring and the day is longer, the park doesn't close until 7pm. We paid the $7 entrance fee and my mister was happy as a clam and was proud of himself for his persistence and not listening to me. After driving toward the Red Rock, I was glad that my mister didn't give up so fast. The scenery was BEAUTIFUL! It was so surreal. I didn't realize there are trails that go through the park. It's very peaceful and it makes you just appreciate nature. We took the 13 mi scenic drive and stopped at the vista spots to take pictures. We had to be quick because the sun was going down fast.
We'll definitely come back. Maybe take a hike or have a nice picnic. -
Review from Tasha H.
Las Vegas, NV
I COME TO THIS PLACE OFTEN I STILL HAVEN'T GOTTEN A CHANCE TO DO ALL TRAILS.
There is something for everyone! Lil Kiddos the Discovery Trail is a hit! They even have a waterfall at the end of it, depending on the time of the year. but its for sure one of Vegas MUST sees. They go from East to Strenuous, and as long as you have the map it lets you know as well as when you get to the trial. They have not only Red rock Canyons here but White too... and with those ones you can see as years have passed... it all tells a story. The scenic loop, takes close to an hour to pass thru, don't rush thru it you never know what you might see. Great sunset spots! An absolutely beautiful spot!
** Entrance Fee is $7/vehicle... so i recommend meeting at the shopping centre close by and car pooling if possible. its what i usually do. -
Review from Richard T.
Bellevue, WA
5/3/2012
My gf decided to bring me here since I have never been here and it is very interesting with all the big red rock formations. It looked like a small version of the Grand Canyon. There are also numerous hiking trails that can last for miles if you have the time. The entrance fee to the park is $7 per vehicle.
The drive is about 30 minutes from Las Vegas and be sure to look out for the turnoff to the canyon or you will drive right past it like I did. Lol. You want to look for the route 159 sign by a gas station in the middle of nowhere.
They have a newly built visitors center that you can visit with interesting facts and also picture vistas if you do not want to take the scenic drive around the canyon. The drive around the canyon is about 15 to 20 miles so it can take awhile to visit if you stop at every point possible to take in all the natural beauty. Once you start the scenic drive you have to drive all the way around as the road only goes one direction until you get to the end. I also saw that you can have a picnic along the way. -
Review from Kimberly V.
Arlington, VA
5/1/2012 1 photo
DOS MIO! After my 800th trip to Vegas I didn't think I could see anything more beautiful than the all you can eat buffet at the Bellagio but I was wrong -- Red Rock Canyon totally takes the cake.
You can pay $7 to take a 13-mile scenic drive that takes you through red, white, and sandy colored canyons or you can hop out of your car and jump on one of their trails for a hike (ranging from easy to hard). I went on the Calico trail where I had fun scrambling over rocks and bravely peering over boulders. We got lost so our .9 mile walk ended up going a little bit longer than expected but we didn't mind one bit since everything was so beautiful.
A few helpful tips:
- Wear layers, the weather would be windy and cold one minute to sweltering hot the next. My cousin told me that there are random blizzards all the time!
- Don't wear flip flops like me!
- Take the chance to dip your feet in the red clay sand. It feels heavenly.
- Watch out for tortoises! -
Review from Peter S.
Las Vegas, NV
4/29/2012
REF: http://www.redrockcany...
Red Rock Canyon is a favorite for locals and tourists of all ages for hiking, biking, running, rock climbing, or simply just enjoy (and be awed by) the magnificent natural beauty of the enormous Red Rock Canyon! Yes, you can stay for just a few hours or spend an entire day! Once you come, you'll be hooked, and will want to keep coming back for more!
It is a gigantic natural preservation for (1) sight-seeing along a 13mi scenic drive, which is used for biking and running as well; (2) learning in a fun way about nature at the spectacular newly rennovated Visitor Center, which has a gorgeous open-air fun museum, a gift shop, etc., (3) hiking on some of its numerous trails, and for (4) rock climbing!
Tourists can either rent a car, or join a tour, such as those offered by "RedRockCanyon-Tours".
- Check out its website for more details:
http://RedRockCanyon-T.... (I have no personal experience with it, however.)
My wife and I, as well as many of our smart friends, enjoy hiking here year round, well, EXCEPT during the hot summer months, (when we'd go to the cooler, tree lined Mt. Charleston, less than an hour drive away from the strip - that's another review, of course.) - Yes, we often bring our out-of-town guests to Red Rock for a nice hike and a picnic! And they always love the experiences!
By the way, the admission charges are $7 per car; $2 per hiker/biker (no car); seniors FREE (65+ with a National Gold Pass, $10 Life Time per card).
Peterskis, Apr 2012
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Review from Kate L.
4/13/2012 1 Check-in Here
How can you not give Mother Nature 5 stars?
The whole place is beautiful. It is amazing that such colors and formations occur naturally as a result of geological events and weather. The "desert meets mountains" look has always been a favorite since I grew up in Phoenix.
There is scenic loop that does cost about $7 to access - but it is the main road to get to the numerous different trails that the park offers. And each trail has a different level to it, so you don't have to be a hardcore outdoorsy type to enjoy it. We stopped and hiked a couple of different trails - and each had unique features. Some have flat square rocks left over from the quarry days, and other trails had the finest sand I have ever seen (so fine, it made it into my socks!
While we didn't get to see any wildlife, there are plenty of rumors about mountain sheep, tortoises and wild burros. And waterfalls. I will definitely be coming back next time I am in town to try to catch a glimpse of something. :)
And as always, be prepared when you are out hiking. Dress in layers, bring plenty of sunscreen and lots of water. Don't forget to let someone know where you are going.Listed in: 100 in 2012
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Review from Jess P.
5/10/2012 1 Check-in Here
I've been hiking here a couple times and I love it!! This is a great park for families with little ones because there are a bunch of trails of different difficulties. I like the scenic driving loop for the lazy hikers. HAHA! Anyways, this is a great park and I highly recommend it! Don't forget to bring your national parks passport and get your cancellation!
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Review from Lisa C.
4/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
Finally on this trip to Vegas, we got a chance to enjoy a great scenic drive and a refreshing hike.
Located just 30 minutes outside of Las Vegas, this place is a must for those who want to get away from the light and noise of the city. You don't have to be a hardcore hiker or rock climber to enjoy a variety of trails here at Red Rock Canyon. There are 19 trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Some are as short as a quick 55 min hike while others can be as long as 3.5 hours.
We did the Lost Creek hike, which was relatively easy (I'm far from a pro hiker). Only took about an hour and was able to do it in my regular sneakers. At the end of the trail, we were rewarded by a mini waterfall. Part of the trail was shaded by trees, bushes, and rocks, so we weren't in the sun the entire time. As we were hiking, we probably ran into 5 groups so the trail was not crowded at all.
In order to reach the trail (as well as a majority of the trails) we had to take the 13-mile scenic drive. The drive is one way only, so make sure you drive slowly enough so that you may take in everything. There are parking areas / turnouts all along the scenic drive so that you can park and get some up close photos of nature at its finest.
For $7 per car (cash and check only), how can you beat that! We will definitely be back to hike some of the other trails :D
FYI: 13mile Scenic Drive, Red Rock Overlook on State Route 159 and Red Spring
Nov-Feb 6am - 5pm
March 6am - 7pm
April-Sept 6am - 8pm
Oct 6am - 7pm -
Review from Mimi C.
2/20/2012
There are ~19 trails in Red Rock Canyon ... and they range from easy peezy (0.4 miles) to difficult (10+ miles). All the trails are connected to one another along the 13 miles of scenic drive. The drive is a loop, so if you get lost, then you must've really done something wrong.
Much of the hiking consists of scrambling amongst some very tiny rocks, so bring pants
and sturdy shoes. Some areas actually have waterfalls (small, puny ones). Valleys are very picturesque ... and you might even spot interesting wildlife (tortoise!)
If you've done 3, you've done a good number as they start to look a like.
We started out at Calico tanks (scramble scramble), then to a few overlooks, a waterfall area. Each area has its own parking lot and bathroom -- which are nicely kept.
To enter -- pay $7 at the entrance ... it's for all day and really worth it.
They even have a visitor's center that has really nifty information and guides to help you on your way.
Don't forget to bring water and sunblock! Don't want you dying out there. -
Review from Chris W.
Escondido, CA
2/24/2012
One of the best things you can do in Las Vegas is to visit Red Rock Canyon. Take a break from losing your money at the casinos and take a drive to one of the most beautiful areas in the country. There is so many breathtaking views and trails that you can experience, there is something for everyone.
Grab some food and have lunch out in the Canyons. If you don't have a car, rent one for the day and get out this area...it's well worth it and one of the many things that will stick in your mind about Vegas for years to come. -
Review from Rosemarie Y.
Las Vegas, NV
1/11/2012 2 Check-ins Here
I really wanted my 100th review to be someplace special. Well, since I'm not going to Joel Robuchon until February and I have a long queue of review drafts, I finally decided that Red Rock Canyon was worthy of this honor. I love that this beautiful work of Mother Nature is practically in my backyard.
I have been a regular Las Vegas tourist for over 15 years, but it wasn't until I became a resident that I finally hiked this breathtaking canyon. In addition to hiking for all levels of difficulty, there are great climbing spots, biking, and camping. When you need an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, the crowds on the strip, and the blaring lights, Red Rock provides the perfect mini retreat to recharge body and soul.
Be sure to check their website because they also offer group hikes and various programs such as : night hikes, photography walks, painting, jewelry making, activities for kids, and much more! If you have yet to experience it's majestic beauty, what are you waiting for?!?!Listed in: The softer side of Las Vegas
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Review from Paul N.
San Jose, CA
4/24/2012
What a lovely sight Red Rock Canyon has to offer! You've got to love all the rock formations and the beautiful scenery that awaits you as you make the 13+ mile drive around the area. It's $7 per car, only about 30 minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip and it is another great way to escape the crazy Strip life. There are places to hike, as other reviewers have pointed out, although I've chosen to stay away from doing so for the purposes of saving some time.
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Review from Heather A.
Henderson, NV
2/14/2012
Great day trip with the family. We always like to start at the visitors center. The kids like the animals and the stories listed about them. (They also like the story and try to score a present there! Beware!) The staff at the information booth are friendly. If you want nothing more than a beautiful drive, you can do that. We like to take a picnic and hike the kid friendly trail. If you are not interested in picnicking on the trail, you can eat at the visitors center, where they also have vending machines.
It's beautiful. It's usually cooler by 10 degrees than the Vegas Valley. It's definitely a world away from the strip drama! -
Review from S R.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 3/19/2012
as promised (to myself) i came here again because i think i got a bad first impression. this time was much better. clear day, chilly, and even a little snow! we were so confused. we thought it was a big cloud of pollen or something. trails are not difficult and do not vary as far as i could tell, but you can explore the rock formations on your own, which range from mild to dangerously difficult.
most importantly, as the signs clearly state, "do not feed the wild horses and burros." dont even think about it.Listed in: Best of Vegas
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/2/2010
the red rocks are pretty, but everything else is not. its a bunch of rocks and shrubs. also, its a… Read more »
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Review from Mona W.
If you have been to Vegas too many times and starting to get tired of all the gambling and clubbing, take a short trip away from the strip to see the other side of this desert town has to offer.
The Red Rock Canyon is extremely tourist friendly. A short scenic drive will take you through most of the major attractions and overlooks. Those who are not fond of hiking or walking can stay in the comfort in their own cars and still able to experience the beauty of nature. More adventurous souls could enjoy hiking in the canyon or scrambling through some rocks. Be cautious though, summer heat could be really daunting. -
Review from Shirley M. J.
CA
1/13/2012 74 photos
I visited this gorgeous place around 1994-of course, that was way before YELP, but I highly recommended all gambling peeps visit this place when not losing their WAGES in Lost Wages . . . lol~
I found this URL for your FYI . . . http://www.americansou...
I visited Las Vegas from December 16-23, 2011. I shot stills of Red Rock Canyon, The beautiful, natural colors were surprisingly fantastic-vivid red, amber, yellow, and ochre hues just blew me away Gee-I forgot how awesome this area truly is spectacular!
So, I hope you'll check out my pics I posted on my Facebook profile . . . my pics are specifically showing how to get to Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas and also, returning to Las Vegas from Red Rock Canyon.
https://www.facebook.c...
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Review from Clayton K.
Las Vegas, NV
2/27/2012
As a Local I recommend all my Vegas Visitors go here, and we regularly take the toddler out to wear him out as best we can. This is one of the greatest parts of living in Vegas; getting the $30 pass and coming out here every weekend.
The 13 mile drive itself is worth the admission. Pulling over to climb around on Calico I or II (the first two trails) is excellent if you're short on time because you can climb on the formations, be essentially "on" the "Red Rocks" and never be too far from the car. Drive up one more to Calico Tanks and now you're hiking. Turtlehead will provide a reasonable challenge for the average hiker. The Children's Trail has a few minor educational setpieces but is really just a super easy trail. All of it is beautiful.
One protip is that if you want to hike past the picnic area at mile 8(ish) and you have a vehicle with good clearance (think SUV or trucks) you can park quite a bit back from the picnic area and save some rocky walking, but the road's not maintained: driver beware. La Madre is nice and fairly easy.
All of it is beautiful. The only negatives are they don't have food and the cell phone reception sucks. Also if you go running or biking on the 13 mile loop here go during high traffic so you don't get vehicularly manslaughtered by some errant driver. -
Review from Luke S.
1/11/2012 1 Check-in Here
I will never go to Vegas again without planning at least one day here at Red Rock. I am by no means a hiker/climber, but this place made me want to learn. We hired a guide that we found via the Sierra Club and it was one of the most amazing experiences that I have ever had. What I thought was going to be a causal three hour hike turned into a rigorous seven hour hike, but it was worth all the pain. The scenery was beautiful and there are limitless areas to explore.
Our guide, George, knew the mountains like the back of his hand and was an amazing guide. He made everything he did look easy and inspired me to take some risks that I would have never imagined. I hope to get back here and explore more ASAP! I will try to post some pictures soon. -
Review from Aurore L.
12/11/2011
What a wonderful playground.
If you go to Vegas, take the time to rent a car and go to this wonderful place; this is a real treat, better than any cupcake in the world. You don't even have to drive that far - it's literally located 10 min away from the end of the urban sprawl (which is quite a sight in itself, and deserves a little Kodak moment).
Even if you are not a seasoned rock climber - the sandstone (and yes, they are red indeed) makes it super easy to play monkey; it's as if you had suction cups on your feet and hands: the grip is perfect. Park your car, hike down to the canyon and explore. It is fun, rewarding and makes you feel like a million bucks - especially when you find yourself above your bad-ass co-hikers and show them the way. Yup. That's what I did, and I felt mighty proud.
I could have sung "We are the champions"; I didn't.
Sometimes it's just better to shut up.
Don't miss the wonderful honeycombs rock formations, and take pictures upon pictures; the red makes a striking contrast with the blue of the sky. Silent surrounds you, with the exception of the wind blowing around and sculpting (sloooooooooowly) the stone. Beginning of December is a great time to visit - but don't forget your jacket and earmuffs, it can get pretty chilly up there.
When you are done with your fooling around - jump back in the car and take the scenic drive. Or ride your bike the whole way. Instant gratification.Listed in: Natural Beauties, Las Vegas
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Review from Jia min C.
San Francisco, CA
4/5/2012
I was visiting my friend who lives in Vegas on the same weekend as St. Paddys and March Madness craziness. Also, it rained, so spending 3/17 on The Strip was a little soul-crushing. There were drunk, obnoxious people all over the place. My friends and I decided that a little palate cleansing was in order. We put the dog in the truck (an awesome Olde English Bulldog named Princess Chuck Norris), and headed out to Red Rock. As we approached the area, I was awestruck by the beauty of this place. The pictures, as always, do not do it justice. It's such a huge area that the weather is visibly different in the different corners of the area. After a bit of debate and deliberation, we decided on the Keystone Thrust trail. We drove over there (there is a one way loop that goes around the whole area, so a great scenic drive if you are not hiking-inclined), parked the car, and started out hike. It was cold and a little overcast, but we figured we'd warm up from the hike. The trail is characterized as of moderate difficulty- it's rocky and you have to scale some rocks, but coming from a hiking novice, this was not bad at all. We did have to carry Chuck through some parts as she has short little legs, and quite honestly is sometimes a wuss.
Two factors kept us from finishing the trail: 1) my friend was a little under the weather, and 2) the blizzard that came down on us all of a sudden. I'm not even kidding. There was a blizzard while we were hiking. We headed back to the truck, which had some good snow coverage, and brushed ourselves off, as we also had some good snow coverage, and shivered until the truck's heater really kicked in.
During the drive through the rest of Red Rock, we found sunshine again. So weird. We could definitely look back and see all the dark clouds over that area we just were in, about 10 minutes earlier.
My main draw for returned to Vegas, aside from the fact one of my best friends currently lives there, is exploring the other trails at Red Rock. And bringing my camera so I can take some awesome pictures. This area is so stunning.
Tip: if you have friends that live in Vegas, and you visit them, try to confine you trip to the Strip to one day. They don't actually like going to the Strip. In fact, does anyone really like going to the Strip? I suppose some people are of that persuasion, but if the Strip were all Vegas had, I've already had my fill. -
Review from Adela B.
Costa Mesa, CA
4/8/2012
This is the other Vegas, and it is absolutely breathtaking. $7 for parking and that is all. If you want to take a breather away from sin city, this is only a short ride away (anticipate 30 min... after all, just getting out of the strip is 15 min, right?). Bring your hiking shoes and a bottle of water. There isn't really an established trail to climb up to the top of the red rock, but you won't get lost. You can see the cars in the parking lot. It's either up or down. I am a wimp when it comes to high cliffs, but this wasn't that bad. It's sediment rock so there's a natural grip. Stay away from gravels, and you won't slip. Climb a bit, sit, and enjoy the view and the silence.
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Review from Tyler G.
Red Rock Canyon is a must see when you are in the area. It is beautiful and peaceful. November was the perfect time to visit, we've been during the summer too when it is really hot! All that fresh air is great for getting rid of all the smoke on the strip. If you have time, you can rent a bike and ride off into the dessert. Just be sure and stay on the trails.
If you're getting married in Vegas, I'd recommend taking wedding pictures out there. Very unique and very beautiful.
Be sure and bring plenty of water! -
Review from Randy B.
11/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
Just a few miles west of Summerlin (and past the Red Rock Hotel), you will enter into something so non-Vegas -- a bona-fide breathtaking place. Kodak moments are in your future, upon arrival.
It's the place I miss most from when I lived in Vegas. In just minutes, you can easily get away from all the big lights and noise...and transcended into a place of serenity and beauty, with an overwhelming sense of enormity and awe.
In the summer months, it's often 5-10 degrees cooler than the strip...and in the winter, it gets a good amount of snow to cap off (and sometimes more), making it look like Switzerland alps (okay, slight exaggeration!).
Highly recommend this 13 miles of driving, or biking, or for places to hike or climb. There is a small fee when entering into the park, per vehicle...and annual passes are also available. -
Review from Robin D.
12/11/2011
Yes!! I can see dinosaurs roaming here. If you are up in north las vegas, you can see the beautiful red and non-red mountains on the onset.
Expect to be hiking trails, rock climbing, or driving a 21 km scenic drive at this national park.
The mountains are quite beautiful, not so much the rocky paths and scarce vegetation. If I could have seen some animals or birds I would loved it, but I loved it anyways. I saw a bush rattle, which got me excited. I was hoping to see a jack rabbit while hiking the turtlehead peak trail. I did not see any animals.
Car entrance fee is $7. I am pretty sure all go to the preservation of this beautiful park. -
Review from Nick F.
3/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Good place to hike, especially in the spring. Its like 10 buck to go thru the main gate, but if you go to Calico basin to hike its free, but not as big.
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Review from Liz S.
Fleming, GA
This the side of Vegas I love. It was perfect weather for the trip we took to Red Rock canyon. It was a short drive from Tropicana in Vegas to Red Rock Canyon. I got caught up in looking at the desert on the way to the canyon and lost track of time.
We got see some Rams nibbling on some brush on our way to the canyon. It was like we went on a mini explore's expedition. It was really cool to walk down the trails and look at the beautiful colored rocks and just enjoy being outside. My friend took some beautiful pictures with the red rocks in the background.
They had a bathroom at the start of the trial. I guess you could call it a bathroom. I was told it was more like a hole in the ground. -
Review from Jeff L.
9/6/2011
Beautiful majestic nature right outside of the insidious dirty strip of Vegas.
We (three adults and two kids) loved visiting the Red Rock even in 110 degree weather in Sept.
The grounds are beautifully maintained and there are much to do from camping, hiking, biking, to running. The 13 mile loop provided 8 stops each with clear and ample parking for photo taking and exploration.
Going to look into camping here in the cooler season. Should be spectacular.
LOVED this find. -
Review from Rob A.
1/1/2012
Spending a few days in Vegas but need a break from the strip? Wake up early one morning, have some breakfast, and head out to Red Rock. The drive is easy and quick. The view is wonderful as you approach. It looks like a 3D painting. When you get there, you can enjoy the drive through or better yet, stop and take a hike. I believe there are like 19 different hiking trails. Some easy, some moderate and some difficult. You could spend a full day here hiking or just a couple of hours. The fee for an auto to get in is like $7. Very cheap for the experience.
Listed in: Get Outside
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Review from Ashley B.
Updated - 10/25/2011
Went out on another trip to Red Rock to a do a bitty-bit of hiking. I am a beginner so I am kind of a wuss. Actually, I'll probably always be a wuss, but hopefully I can get a little better at hiking.
My boyfriend and I went out here about mid-morning, so it was still cool, although it got a little warmer as we finished our hike. I'm pretty sure we did the Calico Loop (although I could be wrong). It's a moderate hike, but I enjoyed it more than the first one we did. I thought the scenery was a bit better and there's some little nooks and crannies you can look into to see some more interesting rock formations.
Another great thing about going out to Red Rock is you tend to get away from unfriendly asshats that are typical when you venture out in the public. I've never really met any unfriendly people out in nature, probably because most people who are going hiking are up-beat, generally healthy, fit people - it just tends to make you a happier person. :)Listed in: I Have a Love/Hate…, No Need For Casinos/Clubs!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/26/2011
Beware this review is coming from a very, very amateur hiker/outdoorsy person.
I went to Red Rock… Read more »
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Review from Teri Y.
7/31/2011
We were looking for a quick getaway from The Strip for half a day and based on the distance and time to travel, Red Rock Canyon was the perfect choice. For those looking for a temporary break from the glitz and glamor of Las Vegas, the Red Rock Canyon is situated 20-miles west of The Strip. The easy 30-minute drive is extremely manageable to one's schedule and itinerary. Red Rock Canyon provided us a convenient opportunity to experience the essence of Nevada i.e. desert, sandstone cliffs, etc.
There are 16 hiking trails to choose from ranging from a distance of 1.5 miles to 6 miles with different difficulty levels from easy to strenuous. Some of the shorter trails connect with the others.
Another option is the 13-mile scenic drive that brings vehicles and bikes through the mountainous region of Red Rock Canyon. The scenic drive goes in one direction so vehicles do not have to worry about whether they are going in the right (or wrong) direction. The highlight of the scenic drive for us were the first two stops where we saw different parts of Calico Hills. The deep red rocks were amazing in their own right. As part of its natural formation process, some of the rocks were a mixture of red and brown and this contrast in color drew to attention the beauty of the formation.
Red Rock Canyon feels like it is a world away from The Strip because of it's stark contrast in view but all it takes is about a convenient 30-minute drive. -
Review from Jennifer L.
Las Vegas, NV
8/19/2011 2 photos
One of the best places near Vegas to hike and climb.
Red Rock is always a stop for friends/family from out of town but many of them just want to see the "red" rocks which is only a small part of what the rest of the canyon offers. The "red" rocks are at the beginning of the scenic drive but most of the best hiking spots are towards the middle/later parts of the drive. If you're lucky, certain trails have streams and rivers running through them which offers a refreshing change of scenery. Ultimately, Red Rock is usually best hiked in the fall, winter, and spring when the weather is cool and you won't die from heatstroke!
1 Day Pass: $7
Annual Pass (for a whole year): $30
recommended trails: Ice Box Canyon (water), Pine Creek Canyon (water), and Turtlehead Peak which is quite strenuous but the view of Las Vegas once you get to the top is breathtaking. -
Review from Bill C.
Updated - 1/30/2012
Best hike in Vegas, unless you are hiking to the cashier with a backpack full of chips.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/28/2012
I truly appreciated this respite from the visual bombardment of the strip after four nights of being… Read more »
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Review from Veronika O.
Las Vegas, NV
2/16/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Mother nature at its dessert and rocky best. Do the Box canyon trail its awesome
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Review from kumi k.
5/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
I can't believe such a pretty place could exist an hour away from the strip. Hands down, Red Rock Canyon is my favorite spot in Las Vegas. We came as the sun was setting and it was AMAZING and very romantic.
There are many hiking trails but it was just as fun simply driving by.Listed in: An Out-Of-Towner's Guide to…
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Review from Yvette B.
Ventura, CA
Updated - 6/10/2011 6 photos
Red Rock Canyon is about a 15 mile drive west of Las Vegas. The mountain views are absolutely breathtaking with towering cliffs and a burst of color unusual to most majestic views. I can never visit this place enough in my lifetime because I find it amazingly beautiful!
The Red Rock Canyon area offers a 13 mile scenic drive providing many stops for photo opportunities and exploration. It's a peaceful getaway when compared to the busyness of the Las Vegas Strip. =0) We slipped away from the beeping and ringing of casino chatter to escape to the silent depths of nature for a moment in time....ahhhhhhh. So majestic! =0)
If you like to hike, take spectacular pictures or if you want to learn more about the desert, plan to spend some time here. They have a little Visitor's Center with a wealth of information. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of who the Master Creator really is. ;0)
Yvette L. Brownstone from Ventura, CAListed in: Day Tripping, The Great Outdoors
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/27/2011
Red Rock Canyon is about a 15 mile drive west of Las Vegas. The mountain views are absolutely… Read more »
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Review from Adriane K.
Las Vegas, NV
2/10/2012
This place is wonderful to just get away from Vegas. You forget you are in Vegas and are able to just enjoy the Canyon. The scenic drive is breathtaking. Seeing it at sunset is a whole new experience. This place is worth getting away from the strip for a few hours to enjoy the other side of Vegas.
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Review from Heather N.
Decatur, GA
4/25/2011 1 photo
Having something so naturally majestic this close to Vegas is surreal. It reminds me of mini Capital Reef, one of my favorite places on the planet.
We didn't have enough time to fully discover the hidden treasures, but did see some tortoises and a rattler. The fire recovery path off of #16 is a cool, private loop that takes you past some springs.
It was painfully hot, even in early spring, but it is the desert, so not really a surprise, I just felt like I might evaporate.
Cheers~Listed in: Vegas
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Review from Sarah Jane W.
Las Vegas, NV
4/17/2011
This is a review of the actual Red Rock Canyon hike, not the entire park.
The canyon officially called Red Rock is accessed from the Calico Basin turnoff, before you get to the actual park -- so you don't have to pay any bogus entrance fees! You just take Calico Basin Rd. past the Red Spring turnoff, take a left on Assisi Canyon Rd and then park on the street where it meets Sandstone Rd.
The hike itself follows a very red rock canyon up and over a little saddle. The canyon walls are full of neat caves and there is a fair amount of greenery (pines, grass, moss, wildflowers in season) reminiscent of Zion. The climb up is fairly steep with lots of easy bouldering -- a fun, engaging climb. At the top, you have a badass view back to the east of the Vegas valley. To the west, you look down into the fee-charging part of Red Rock. You could easily hike down into the official park, thus avoiding the fees...but I just rested awhile and then hiked back down to the car. All in all it was about 45 min each way.
Even though it's kinda short, I give this hike 5 stars because 1) it's FREE, 2) it has that classic red-rock, Zion-y beauty 3) it's only 20 minutes out of town and 4) it's less well-traveled than the actual Red Rock park.
Anyone who wants to experience a quick shot of Zion/Valley of Fire without the long drive and hordes of tourists, check this hike out! -
Review from Sarah K.
Vancouver, WA
2/4/2012
Husband and I rented a car for the day and escaped from the Strip. This was, by far, my favorite day in Las Vegas! Red Rock Canyon is gorgeous! Living in the Northwest, we are spoiled with natural beauty... this ranks up there with some of my favorite locations!
The hikes range from easy to difficult. There is a great little .5 miles stroll appropriate for kids or people not very active.
Bring the camera, wind and sun protection (yes, even in the winter). Dress in layers and hike prepared with all the essentials!
The Visitor Center has a little gift shop and a few interactive stations for little and big kids.
Keep an eye out for the tortoises and other wildlife and enjoy the quiet and solitude! -
Review from Julie A.
4/22/2011
This is a definite must-do when visiting Vegas. Just don't make our mistake and go hiking from 12noon until 4pm when the sun is at its hottest. And especially NOT at the height of summer in late August like we did!
In the morning at 10am, the temperature is already at 106 degrees. I have no idea what kind of heat we were hiking in. But we both almost fainted. We were ill-prepared with only 3 regular sized water bottles and a bag of chocolate-covered popcorn between the two of us. Make sure you pack 3 kegs of water and a few portable bottles to carry with you during your hikes. You might also want some carbs in case the water isn't enough to sustain energy in your body. Luckily we had an umbrella. Yes, an umbrella-ella-ella.
Seriously, once you drive into the scenic route, it's a long ONE way 13-miles to get out of there. We were almost gone at just 5 miles into it. I still remember feeling woozy and trying to drive when to our sides were some pretty sharp drops over the side of the cliff. I was so happy to make it out of there alive!
Now the good thing about the hellish hot day was that admission was FREE. Apparently the national parks granted free admission on days that would be too psycho to step foot in here.
As for the canyon itself? Soooo beautiful. Nothing really compares. I was just amazed and couldn't believe it was real. The scenery feels like some kind of dream. Giant rocks with red stripes painted on them. I definitely want to take my son here.
Most of the trip, there were only a handful of nearby visitors, but in the beginning part of our scenic drive, we somehow entered the Fast and the Furious minus Paul Walker and Vin Diesel. Instead, just a whole lot of Asian racers. I think they were doing races.
Yes, we enjoyed the strip and nightlife, but this was one of the most amazing parts of our trip.Listed in: Vegas, Sin Central, National Parks Passport
