Red Rock Canyon: A First Time Visitor Guide
Red Rock Canyon, located just 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip is a stunning natural wonder characterized by vibrant red sandstone cliffs, rugged canyons, and unique desert landscapes. As part of the Mojave Desert, Red Rock Canyon is a haven for hikers, rock climbers, photographers, and anyone seeking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle or any visitor to the area who enjoys the outdoors and this guide will help you plan an awesome trip to this stunning area just outside the city.
Basic info:
- Name: Red Rock Canyon
- Location: Mojave Desert (close to Vegas)
- Things to do: Scenic driving, hiking, climbing, and more (see visitor recommendations)
- Fee: $20 per vehicle
- Hotels? See top options
Getting There:
Red Rock Canyon is conveniently located near Las Vegas, making it easily accessible for a day trip. For most people, it’ll take about 30 minutes to get to the area from the major airport destinations. For out of city visitors, I would not recommend taking an Uber there and to rent a car instead. There is a fee to enter and during certain seasons, a prior reservatio may be required to enter (see details).
Hiking Gear Recommendations:
- Best rated hiking shoes for day hikes (men/women sizes available)
- Best rated hiking backpack for day hikes
- Best rated hiking pole for day hikes
Photos:
Best Times to Visit:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to visit, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). This is the prime season for wildflower blooms, including desert marigolds, beavertail cacti, and penstemon. The mild weather makes it perfect for hiking and climbing.
- Fall (September to November): Fall offers similar temperatures to spring, with clear skies and cool breezes. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities, as the summer heat begins to subside.
- Winter (December to February): Winter brings cooler temperatures (40°F to 60°F), but it’s still comfortable for hiking and exploring. Snow can occasionally dust the higher peaks, adding a unique contrast to the red rocks.
- Summer (June to August): Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C), making it less comfortable for strenuous activities. If you visit during summer, hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon and bring plenty of water.
Things to Do:
Scenic Drive: The 13-mile Scenic Drive is the main way to explore the conservation area by car. It offers breathtaking views of the red rock formations, with pullouts and overlooks where you can stop to take photos or start a hike. For highlights along the drive, there’s a few: Calico Hills, High Point Overlook, and Red Rock Wash Overlook. In terms of timing, it’s recommended to take 1-2 hours to complete the drive, including stops. For a leisurely experience, plan for 3-4 hours if you plan to hike along the way.
Hiking Trails: Red Rock Canyon has trails for all skill levels, offering scenic views, rock formations, and desert wildlife. Here’s an overview of the top trails:
-
- Calico Tanks Trail: A 2.2 miles round-trip with 400 feet of elevation (a moderate hike). This popular trail starts at the Sandstone Quarry and leads to a natural water tank with panoramic views of Las Vegas. The trail features colorful rock formations, boulder scrambles, and scenic viewpoints.
- Ice Box Canyon Trail: This is a 2.6 miles round-trip with over 300 feet of elevation (moderate and difficult) that takes hikers into a deep canyon with towering walls and shade. It’s a great spot for escaping the summer heat, with a seasonal waterfall at the end (visible after heavy rain).
- Lost Creek – Children’s Discovery Trail: This is a very short and easy 0.7 miles round-trip with minimal elevation gain. This family friendly trail offers interpretive signs, a seasonal waterfall, and petroglyphs. It’s a great introduction to the area’s geology and cultural history.
Rock Climbing: Red Rock Canyon is renowned for its world-class rock climbing, with routes ranging from beginner to expert levels. Popular Spots include Calico Basin, The Black Corridor, and Kraft Boulders.
Wildlife Viewing: The diverse desert ecosystem of Red Rock Canyon is home to a variety of wildlife, including desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, lizards, and birds like hawks and golden eagles. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for wildlife sightings, as animals are more active during cooler hours. It is recommended to bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for better wildlife viewing and photography.
Photography: Red Rock Canyon is a photographer’s dream, with its red sandstone cliffs, desert flora, and expansive landscapes. There are numerous spots to get some amazing photos from and they include many names already mentioned above: Calico Hills, High Point Overlook, and Keystone Thrust Trail. Night sky photography is also a huge deal here as you can see tons of stars including Milky Way shots and star trails.
Tours: Red Rock Canyon has numerous tour options which allow you to see the area via things like ATV tours, bike tours and much more.
Where to Stay:
While there are no accommodations within Red Rock Canyon itself, there are several options nearby. You essentially have 2 options, and if you’re looking for hotels, Vegas is your best bet. But as for campgrounds, there is only really 1 choice.
- Red Rock Canyon Campground: Read reviews.
- Hotels in Las Vegas: See top options.
Tips for First-Time Visitors:
- Bring Plenty of Water: The desert in Red Rock Canyon can be tough to deal with, especially during the warmer seasons. I would recommend bringing at least 1 gallon of water per person, especially if you plan to hike.
- Check Trail Conditions: Before heading out, check the trail conditions at the Visitor Center or online. Some trails may be closed after heavy rain or due to maintenance.
- Watch for Flash Floods: While rare, flash floods can occur during rainstorms, especially in narrow canyons like Ice Box Canyon. Be aware of the weather forecast and avoid hiking in canyons during rain.
- Stay on Designated Trails: Help preserve the fragile desert ecosystem by staying on designated trails and not disturbing plants, rocks, or wildlife.
Nearby Attractions:
- Spring Mountain Ranch State Park: Located just a few miles from Red Rock Canyon, this park offers historical buildings, picnic areas, and additional hiking trails in a more lush desert setting.
- Bonnie Springs Ranch: Just outside Red Rock Canyon, this historic ranch has been transformed into an Old West town with horseback riding, a petting zoo, and scenic views.
- Joshua Tree: There’s a national park about 2-3 hours south east of Vegas and that’s Joshua Tree National Park. You can pretty easily do a nice day trip to this park if you’re staying in the city.
- More options: Since most people who visit Red Rock Canyon stay in Vegas, there’s a bunch of other day trips outside of Las Vegas to try.
Final Things to Know:
Red Rock Canyon offers a striking contrast to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, with its towering red cliffs, winding trails, and serene desert landscapes. Whether you’re hiking the scenic trails, capturing photos of the iconic rock formations, or simply enjoying a drive along the Scenic Loop, this natural gem provides a refreshing escape for first-time visitors. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the beauty of Red Rock Canyon and make the most of your visit.
Related:
