Red Rock Canyon: Escape Las Vegas into Nature

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area in Nevada is a place where people can escape from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. Red Rock Canyon is only about 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip, but it gives visitors a feeling of remoteness. Once you get away from the constant drone of slot machines and flashing lights, the desert again quickly takes cover.  More than two million people visit Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area annually for the stunning scenery and amazing outdoor recreation opportunities. 

Driving Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive

One of the biggest attractions for folks is the scenic drive. Entry reservations are required from October through May and can be made at Recreation.gov.  The 13-mile road is a oneway paved road that weaves through the heart of Red Rock Canyon.  It provides access to many of the park’s trails and rock-climbing spots. Make sure to take your time and relax. Many overlooks and parking areas are great for hopping out of the car and stretching your legs. Many people opt not to drive the scenic loop and ride bikes. Along the way, expect incredible scenery from the desert landscape.  Bright red rock formations, stunning sandstone, and limestone cliffs are just a few of the things you pass along the way. The Red Rock Overlook and the Highpoint Overlook are two of the best places to view sunrises and sunsets; both offer sweeping views to the east and west. The scenic drive is not open 24 hours a day; it closes around sunset. 

Hiking in Red Rock Canyon

There are a ton of hiking trails in Red Rock Canyon. There is something for all ages and abilities. The Calico Tanks Trail is 2.5 miles and gives hikers amazing views of the Las Vegas Valley and surrounding areas. The Petroglyph Wall Trail is less than a quarter mile long and can be accessed from the Willow Spring Picnic Area. As the trail name suggests, the petroglyph wall can be found across the wash next to a large juniper tree. The White Rock and La Madre Spring Loop is 6 miles and takes hikers through one of the premiere bighorn sheep viewing areas. There are dozens and dozens of miles of trails through the conservation area.  Many can be used for overnight backcountry camping.

Rock Climbing is another reason thousands of people visit.  Red Rock Canyon is considered to have world-class rock climbing. There are hundreds of established traditional and sport climbing routes through the canyon. Many can be easily accessed off the scenic drive.  For a deeper dive into climbing, quite a few guidebooks are available.

Camping in Red Rock Canyon

Camping is an incredible way to spend your time in Red Rock Canyon. Backcountry camping is available for those looking for an adventure. There is also a developed front country campground that is available for reservations. The Red Rock Canyon Campground is two miles east of the visitor center on State Route 159. It’s normally open from Labor Day to Memorial Day (September 1 – June 1) and closed over the scorching hot summer.  The fringe seasons can also be quite hot, and just a heads up, no shade is available unless your site has a structure. Don’t let that scare you, though; the campground is very nice and the perfect way to escape Las Vegas for a night or two of peaceful relaxation. Red Rock Canyon Campsite reservations can be made at recreation.gov.

While you are exploring, make sure to take a minute here and there to appreciate the landscape. We like to think about what it takes to survive in such a harsh environment. Mojave Yucca, Joshua Trees, and Prickly Pear Cactus are just a few plants that have adapted to the environment. Bighorn Sheep, wild Burros, and many different types of birds are often seen. 

If you get super lucky, you may even spot a Desert Tortoise, which is endangered and can live to be 80 years old. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is truly a marvelous place to visit and will not disappoint! Enjoy!