Hiking and Driving in Red Rock Canyon, Nevada
Scenic 13-mile Driving Loop Offers Numerous Hiking Opportunities
Jul 20, 2009
Visit Las Vegas and the first thing that comes to mind? Gambling. For those looking for a different type of adventure, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is one of the most scenic areas in all of southern Nevada. There are 19 different stops along the scenic loop drive located within the 197,000-acre area. Below are the first 10 stops and related hikes on the drive, along with level of difficulty and estimated hiking time. Choose one or more to explore based on time constraints and fitness levels. These stops on the loop drive include viewing highlights, degree of difficulty and estimated round-trip hiking times.
Moenkopi
This trail begins just to the west of the visitor center near a weather station. Highlights include panoramic views of Calico Hills, the Spring Mountains and La Madre Mountains. Easy. 1.5 hours; 2 miles.
Calico Hills
Access the trail by parking either at Calico I, Calico II or near the entrance station. Highlights include access to rock climbing areas and an exceptional view of the Calico Hills. Easy to moderate. 1.5 to 3.5 hours; 2 to 6 miles.
Calico Tanks
The trail begins at the Sandstone Quarry parking lot. It winds through a wash. Hikers may be rewarded at hike’s end by seasonal water present in a natural tank. Moderate. 2 hours; 2.5 miles.
Turtlehead Peak
This trail also begins at the Sandstone Quarry parking lot and follows the shoulder of the peak all the way to the top. Highlights include a breathtaking view from the top of the 6,324-foot peak. Strenuous. 3.5 to 4.5 hours; 5 miles.
Keystone Thrust
Access the trail from the upper White Rock Spring parking lot. Highlights include views of Keystone Thrust, the most significant geologic feature of Red Rock Canyon. Moderate. 1.5 hours; 2.2 miles.
White Rock – Willow Springs
Access either from the upper White Rock Spring parking lot or the Willow Springs Picnic Area. Depending on the season, watch for wildlife that relies on these year-round springs for survival. Easy to Moderate. 2.5 hours; 4.4 miles.
White Rock / La Madre Spring Loop
Three access points include upper White Rock Spring parking lot, Lost Creek Trail parking lot, or Willow Springs Picnic Area. The north side of White Rock offers the best views of bighorn sheep. Moderate. 3.5 hours; 6 miles.
Lost Creek – Children’s Discovery
Access from the attached parking lot. Highlights include pictographs and a possible waterfall, depending on the season. Easy to Moderate (partial boardwalk). 55 minutes; .75 miles.
Willow Springs Loop
Begin at Willow Springs Picnic Area or Lost Creek Trail parking lot. The trail passes by several pictographs. Easy. 1.25 hours; 1.5 miles.
La Madre Spring
Access the trail from the Willow Springs Picnic Area. Highlights include walking part of the 4x4 Rocky Gap Road. Watch for desert bighorn sheep at the spring. Moderate. 2 hours; 3.3 miles.
See information on additional hiking trails in Red Rock Canyon.
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