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Red Rock Canyon
National Conservation Area
Many may think about Nevada as dust and sand. There is a bit of truth in this kind of statement, but it is mostly incorrect to summarize Nevada like that. Indeed, many stunning places can be found in the Silver State. Red Rock is one of these.
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.
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.
Many companies offer activities and tours as well.
Visitor Center
The visitor center is a separate activity in itself. 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.
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.
Operating hours:
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The Visitor Center and the Elements Gift Shop are open daily 8am-4:30pm
Hiking
Now if you are more into hikes, Red Rock offers plenty to do! Here are some hikes that we like:
Grand Circle Loop – Although not everyone can do it, this hike going through the Scenic Drive offers a great variety of landscapes and difficulty. You can do the trail clockwise or counterclockwise. However, when you go counterclockwise, the hardest (but also funniest) part is first. Indeed, this first part takes you through canyons made of red rocks. This part includes a lot of rock climbing, but nothing too hard. The rest of the hike is less strenuous, but full of different landscapes. If you like long hikes, it is definitely a must do!
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11.4mi | strenuous | Takes an average of 6H
Ice Box Canyon Trailhead – Ice box is named after the phenomena occurring within the canyon. Indeed, the cold accumulated by the rocks, make the wall of the canyons cold to the touch, almost like an ice box. The hike is referenced as strenuous, but it is not that difficult. In fact, what can make it difficult is the rock that you may have to go over along the trail. That excepted, it is a cool trail in the canyons.
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2.2mi | Strenuous | Takes an average of 2H
Calico Basin Trail – This is an easy trail that goes at the foot of the red rocky walls. Although easy, this little trial offers some nice views.
1.5mi | Easy | Takes an average of 1H
Guardian Angel Pass Trail – This hike is not marked officially, but it can be found in most hiking apps. Guardian Angel Pass is a loop that goes around Calico hill, but at one point goes through the Guardian Angel Pass. Going in the pass is often the most difficult part of the trail since it requires to climb some rocks. However, the hike will reward with stunning views.
3.3mi | Can be challenging | Takes between 2 to 4H.
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. So, if you plan on hiking there, take plenty of water. 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.
Camping in Red Rock
Camping in closed area (the area you have to pay for) is prohibited. However, you can camp not too far from there. Indeed, you can sleep at the Red Rock Campground located at an approximate 20 mile drive from the Las Vegas strip. Common vault toilets, trashcans, and drinking water are provided. However, there are no showers or hookup services. The basic fees are the following during the peak season (Sept 01 to Dec 31):
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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
You must have reserved prior to your coming.
The campground is usually closed from Dec 31 to the end of June.
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 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.
Commercial Tour Vehicle | $20/ Vehicle + $5/ Person |
Pedestrian | $5 |
Bicyclist | $8 |
Motorcycle | $10 |
Car/Truck | $20 |
Getting to Red Rock
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.
Frequently Asked Question
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. Although they are under different types of conservation designation which also imply different type of restrictions, both can be accessed with the America the Beautiful Pass.
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, there is cell phone service within Red Rock Canyon but it is very 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.
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