Red Rock Canyon
National Conservation Area
Written/Edited by: Northern Latitudes Editorial Team
Updated: 5/21/2026
Photo by Halie West | Unsplash
For many, the state of Nevada is dust and sand. There is some truth to that, but there so many hidden gems in the Silver State too. Red Rock Canyon is one those. Located only 30minutes away from Las Vegas, it is one of the best destinations in southern Nevada. This guide is there to introduce you to Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area.
Summary:
What is Red Rock Canyon?
Red Rock Canyon is a national reserve located about 30min from Las Vegas. The area is characterized by its unique geology and wide diversity of plants and wildlife. It is also a very popular area among hikers, bikers or climbers because of its unique landscapes that offer fun and beautiful paths.
Quick Information:
Admission - $20 for a car.
America the Beautiful - Accepted
Hours - 6AM to Sunset
Reservation - Required between Oct 1st and May 31th.
Address: Las Vegas, NV 89161
Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center
The visitor center for Red Rock Canyon is located near the entrance of the park. Once entered on the scenic drive, the visitor center will be on your left (not the first left when the tolls passed, but the left after).
You'll find a souvenir shop (the products on offer are really nice), restrooms, a refreshment area, an indoor exhibit, and an outdoor exhibit that will delight the whole family. Both exhibit areas offer exceptional panoramic views of the entire park
Operating hours:
Open daily 8am-4:30pm
Our tip! When visiting Red Rock Canyon, since the road around the park is one-way, start your visit with the visitor Center, as you'll have to leave the park to return.
Things to do in Red Rock Canyon
As mentioned precedently, there are so many fun things to do in Red Rock Canyon. If you like to climb, there are many climbing spots in and around the area. Red Rock also has plenty of hiking trails. It has a campground, and the area is also nice for stargazing.
Picture by Tom Donders | Unsplash
Camping in Red Rock Canyon
Camping in the closed area (the area after the toll) is prohibited. However, you can camp not too far from there. You can sleep at the Red Rock Campground located approximately 20 miles away from the Las Vegas strip and 5min from the park's entrance. The include vault toilets, trashcans and drinking water. However, there is no hookup services for RV.
Fees from Sep 01 to May 31 of next year:
-
Standard Vehicle – $25
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Walk To – $12
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Rv Nonelectric – $25
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Group Shelter – $80
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Shelter – $25
Reservations are required and can be made up to 6 months in advance, but not less 48H ahead of arrival.
Address: 3293 Moenkopi Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89161
Hiking in Red Rock Canyon
Now if you are more into hikes, Red Rock offers plenty to do! Here are some hikes that we like:
Grand Circle Loop
Overview:
11.4 miles
Difficult
Around 6H
This long trail goes around the park, through the different and colorful landscapes. Can be done clockwise or counterclockwise, but more difficult when done counterclockwise.
Ice Box Canyon
Overview:
2.2
Medium
Around 2H
The name of the trail is based on the cool walls of the canyon in which the trail is located. If you look for an medium hike to fill an afternoon, this is it.
Guardian Angel Pass
Overview:
3.3 miles
Difficult
Around 3H
This non-official trail offers stunning views over both redrock and some part of Las Vegas. The trail include some climbing, making it both fun and challenging.
Warning! You may hear that a lot, but we never remind enough people to take enough water when going in these dry and hot environments. Additionally, having made multiple hikes in this area, we have noticed that there are often no phone signals in red rock, so we encourage you to know where you are going before going there.
More hikes on RedRock Canyon Website.
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Rock Climbing In Red Rock Canyon
For years now, the Aztec sandstone characterizing the area has become a popular spot for rock climbing. Red Rock Canyon features a couple of climbing routes going from 5.0 to 5.14 using the Yosemite Decimal System, and routes from grade I to VI. This variety in grade and difficulty offers beginners the possibility to try climbing for the first time (of course with a teacher), but also more challenging routes for experienced climbers. For more information, you can visit the website of the Bureau of Land Management which has all the information you need to plan your next climbing trip in Red Rock Canyon.
Tours in Red Rock
With landscapes worthy of a western movie, Red Rock Canyon is a great site for tours and adventures. Many companies offer guided tours around Red Rock Canyon going from scooter rides in the scenic loop to horseback riding, so don’t hesitate to check it out.
Adventure Tour Trekker
Drive along the 13-mile scenic drive at Red Rock National Conservation area and see the dramatic rock formations and brilliant colors. A stop at the Visitors Center allows you to explore many exhibits and learn the history of the fascinating area.
How much does Red Rock Canyon cost?
Not all of Red Rock Canyon is accessible for a fee. Some areas around the Calico Basin are actually accessible for free. The best free view of Red Rock is probably at the Red Rock Canyon Overlook.
For the paying part (where the visitor center is located), a timed reservation is required for vehicle entry to the Scenic Loop between 8am - 5pm from October 1 through May 31. The reservation cost $2 in addition to the entry fee.
You can also buy an Annual Pass for $50, or you can access the area with the America the Beautiful Annual Pass.
Discounts may also exist. We encourage you to check the following on the Red Rock Canyon website.
America the Beautiful Passes and other passes from the National Park Service are accepted.
Commercial Tour Vehicle | $20/ Vehicle + $5/ Person |
Pedestrian | $5 |
Bicyclist | $8 |
Motorcycle | $10 |
Car/Truck | $20 |
Getting to Red Rock Canyon
The great thing with Red Rock Canyon is that it is located near Las Vegas, Nevada. Indeed, you can easily get there from the center of Las Vegas, it is only a 30min drive or closer depending on your point of departure.
The easiest way to get there is by taking the Interstate 215 and then taking the exit leading you on West Charleston Blvd. From there, it is a straight line on Red Rock Canyon Rd which will lead you to the area.
Can you go to Red Rock Canyon without a car?
If your goal is to simply get a transportation means from Vegas to Red Rock Canyon, then no you cannot go without a car. Uber and Lyfts may drop you there, but it is very unlikely that one will pick you up over there. The option remaining is to book a tour. Nonetheless, it does not give your control over your trip.
FAQ
Is Red Rock Canyon a National Park?
Red Rock Canyon in southern Nevada is not designated as a national park. However, it is a national conservation area, which means it is protected by the government of the U.S. as would a national park.
How long is the Scenic Loop?
Red Rock Canyon’s scenic loop is one way and about 13 miles (21km) long.
Is there cell phone service in Red Rock Canyon?
Yes and No, cell phone service is available in Red Rock Canyon, but generally bad. Therefore, we highly encourage you to plan your trip before you go, even more if you plan on hiking there.
How is the weather?
The weather in Red Rock Canyon is very similar to the surrounding areas. It tends to be dry and windy, and very hot (over 100F) in summer. However, the site is located at a slightly higher altitude than Las Vegas, making it cooler. Whatever are your plans in Red Rock Canyon, plan to take plenty of water and take the necessary equipment for the sun. In winter it can be very cold there.
Can I use drones inside Red Rock Canyon?
Drones are allowed for recreational purposes, but only in specific areas. They are prohibited in Red Rock Canyon’s Wilderness Area. Since the fee area of the reserve borders the wilderness, we highly encourage you to take a look at all the requirements before you decide to fly your drone.
Are pets allowed inside?
Pets are allowed inside Red Rock Canyon, but they should be kept on leash at all times and never be left unattended.
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