There are many places to visit in Red Rock, Nevada. The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, located in the Mojave Desert, is a geological wonderland with many Native American petroglyphs. Visitors can drive the 13-mile Scenic Drive or hike the trail system. In addition, you can visit Ice Box Canyon, which features seasonal waterfalls. You can also visit Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, which features historic buildings and hiking trails.
Calico Tanks Trail
The Calico Tanks Trail is a popular red rock hiking trail that features a mix of scrambling sections and scenic views. The trail also includes a waterfall and is open from dawn to dusk. Depending on your experience level, you can tackle the trail in one to two hours. It is an ideal hiking destination for beginners and more experienced hikers. There are also a number of places to camp along the way.
The trail is 2.5 miles round-trip and has an elevation gain of 450 feet. The trail is moderately difficult, with some rock-hopping and minor rock scrambling. There are restrooms along the way. This hike is best for families and active adults. For those who are not fit, it is recommended to bring a backpack.
This hike is part of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It is a great option for those who enjoy nature and hiking. This 2.6 mile route has 500 feet of cumulative elevation gain and takes about an hour to complete. Calico Tanks Trail is accessible from two main roads. While it is not known for military equipment, you can still enjoy its rock formations and water collection.
This hike is one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock Canyon. The trail is beautiful and has sweeping views of Las Vegas. It is also challenging, but is suitable for people of all skill levels. This hike is a great introduction to Red Rock Canyon and can make a refreshing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the Strip.
The Calico Tanks Trail in Red Rock Canyon is located in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, a half hour drive from downtown Las Vegas. From here, you can find a variety of hiking trails. The Calico Tanks Trail is two and a half miles long, with about 400 feet of elevation gain. It features stunning red and yellow rock formations, as well as a tranquil water tank.
Ice Box Canyon Trail
The Ice Box Canyon Trail is a beautiful hike that starts at the Ice Box Canyon Parking Lot and leads to the mouth of the canyon. During the hike, you will have to climb over large boulders and duck under low-hanging tree branches, but you will be rewarded with spectacular views and an incredible experience.
The trail begins by meandering through the desert and then drops down into the canyon. At the bottom, you’ll find a waterfall. The trail is moderate in difficulty, and there are some tricky scrambling sections along the way. It is the perfect hike for a first-time hiker, and it is a great place for bird-watchers.
The Ice Box Canyon Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Red Rock Canyon. The trail leads through a canyon that has a surprisingly deep entrance. It’s a great hike on a hot summer day, as the canyon walls are hundreds of feet high and provide much needed shade. There are also streams and waterfalls that run along the canyon walls. You’ll also have an incredible view of the distant Calico Hills. Depending on the weather, the canyon’s slopes offer a great opportunity for boulder hopping and scrambling.
The Icebox Canyon Trail is 2.5 miles long and is located within the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It will take about two to three hours if you walk at a moderate pace. You’ll need to take care of your ankles, as the terrain is very rocky and can cause sprained ankles. The trail is not difficult, but it is not recommended for those who are not accustomed to hiking.
There are five trails in Red Rock Canyon. Each of them offers spectacular views. You can also take pictures on this trail. It’s best to book tickets for these tours ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
The Scenic Loop
If you are a first-time visitor to Red Rock Canyon, the Scenic Loop is a great place to start. This one-way road has a 35 mph speed limit and is surrounded by sand dunes. As you ride along, you will likely pass cyclists, wildlife, and the occasional pedestrian. Despite the beautiful scenery, it can be easy to get distracted. You may also want to take advantage of the lookout points to enjoy the view.
The scenic drive is 13 miles long and offers countless scenic stops. There are also several trailheads and parking. Entrance fees help fund visitor facilities and upkeep of the scenic drive. You can purchase a daily, weekly, or lifetime pass. It’s worth the cost to drive the loop and the views from the road are simply breathtaking.
The trail is paved, but you’ll have to cross a couple of large boulders along the way. If you don’t feel comfortable with a challenging hike, you can easily turn back at the first boulder. Otherwise, you can continue on to the end of the canyon. Here, you’ll be enveloped by stone walls, while vistas extending to red rock hills across the valley can be breathtaking.
If you are looking for a place to cycle, the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive is definitely worth visiting. The trailhead is located at Willow Springs Picnic Area, so you can have lunch before or after the trip. If you want to stay overnight, you can check out the Red Rock Resort & Spa. The hotel has beautiful rooms, a fantastic outdoor pool complex, and a number of dining options. All of this is conveniently located just 30 minutes from the Vegas Strip.
Another scenic drive is Calico I, which ascends along the Calico Hills. It’s a moderate hike that takes between one and three hours to complete. It also passes through Ice Box Canyon, which is known for its cool shade. This canyon rarely sees sunlight and the cool mountain water from the nearby mountains keeps the area significantly cooler than the open desert.
The Seven Magic Mountains
Located outside Las Vegas, the Seven Magic Mountains is a stunning art installation of seven neon-colored rock towers. Since opening in May 2016, the installation has become a social media sensation. It is estimated to attract more than a thousand visitors every day. Originally, the installation was only scheduled to run for two years, but its popularity has led to an extension until the end of 2021.
The Seven Magic Mountains are best visited early in the day to avoid the heat and the crowds. The park is free to visit and offers ample parking. Those who are driving a large vehicle are advised to park early. The area is incredibly scenic and will make for some great photographs. If you’re planning to spend the day at the park, be sure to bring plenty of water and camera batteries. Lastly, be sure to bring your ID or passport.
The Seven Magic Mountains are best explored on a private vehicle, since they are not accessible via public transportation. They’re also best visited on a day when you’ll have the day to explore the area. It’s best to leave no trace, so make sure you’re careful not to disturb any animals or plants.
If you’re planning to visit the park with your dog, keep it on a leash. In the summer, the area can get hot, so take precautions and clean up after your pet. The trail is wheelchair accessible, but you should note that the surface is not paved. If you’re in a wheelchair, make sure you bring an electric wheelchair or a strong pusher.
The Seven Magic Mountains are a popular photography location in the Las Vegas area. The area is considered one of the top Instagram spots. Be aware, though, that professional photography equipment is not permitted at this site, though drones are permitted.
The Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center
Located near the Scenic Loop Drive, the Visitor Center offers information about the canyon, wildlife, and history. It also offers multiple exhibits that showcase the natural environment of the canyon. Visitors can also ask for recommendations for places to visit in the area. Visitors can also participate in different programs offered by the center, including horseback riding.
Depending on the season, you can spend the night at a campground located just two miles away from the Visitor Center. The campground is suitable for RVs and tents. Though it does not have electrical hookups, it features vault toilets and water spigots. RV sites are available for $20 a night, while large group campsites can accommodate up to 20 people.
You can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Red Rock Canyon from various viewpoints. One of the best viewpoints is the Red Rock Canyon Overlook. This is a great spot to view the sunrise and sunset. The scenic drive and numerous hiking trails provide a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
The Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center is an excellent place to learn about the wildlife that lives in the desert. You can see wildlife such as lizards and desert tortoise. There are also some beautiful artworks that are inspired by the Southwest. There are also free pamphlets available to give you a better understanding of the ecosystem and the wildlife that inhabits the canyon.
If you have time, you can hike to the Calico Hills trail in the Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area. This hike is about two to six miles and includes flatlands, but offers amazing views of the canyon.
