Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is an easy day trip from Las Vegas. The unique landscape is home to many opportunities for beautiful views, easy hikes, and even rock climbing. But it is not on everyone’s radar so you may not have considered it the last time you were in Vegas. But don’t miss out! Let us answer a few questions so you can plan for a trip soon!
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Is Red Rock Canyon Worth Visiting?
The answer is a resounding yes! Our day spent at Red Rock Canyon State Park was our sons’ favorite day trip from Vegas. There are hiking trails that are full of fun opportunities to clamor over rocks, tuck yourself into gaping holes that have formed in the rock face, or view petroglyphs. The 13 mile Red Rock Scenic Drive connects over 20 different hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous. There are multiple spots to pull over and take photos as well. This park truly has something for everyone.
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Is Red Rock Canyon Open?
Yes, the park is open. We all know how important it can be for our physical and mental health to get ourselves outside for exercise or even just to enjoy nature. The Red Rock National Conservation Area recognizes this need. The Scenic Drive is open from 6 AM. Campgrounds are also open while some other shared areas such as picnic areas and the Visitor Center are currently closed. Elements Gift Shop is open. Check the official website here for hours and costs. Tip: Timed reservations are required as of November so click here to get started with that process. I found the website easy to manage and could select Scenic Drive 1-Day Personal Vehicle entry for same day up to a month out.
How Far is Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas?
Red Rock Canyon is an easy 30 min drive from the Strip following Clark County 215N and NV-159 to Red Rock Canyon. If you do not have your own car while staying in Las Vegas then I would recommend a car rental for the day. There is little to no cell phone service at Red Rock Canyon so ride-sharing services may not be the most practical, especially when trying to organize pick-up without a signal.
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What to do in Red Rock Canyon?
If you are interested in an overnight stay, the campground is currently open. You can make reservations by either visiting their reservation website here or calling 1-877-444-6777.
We didn’t commit that amount of time to the park. Instead we opted for a quick day trip. We chose Red Rock Canyon trails that are perfect for enjoying a few hikes and then heading back to the city for dinner. If you want to spend the day enjoying the scenery and hiking like we did, here are our suggestions for the best way to spend the day.
Calico Hills
This is an easy-to-moderate trail depending on how far out you choose to go. You can access the area right from the fee booth parking lot or either of the Calico lots. We just explored this area briefly to take a few photos and get our bearings.
Calico Tanks
This was our boys’ favorite hike as they got to scramble over the rocks and climb to their heart’s content. The total distance including getting to the sweeping view of Las Vegas area is 2.2 miles out and back.
We saw other families with children on this hike as well as people with dogs. This is a great hike for everyone during cooler weather but if considering this in the warmer months we strongly recommend you start as early as possible. It can get unbearably hot if you go too late in the AM.
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High Point Overlook
Take advantage of the Scenic Dive by pulling over at each of the overlook spots. Since the common picnic areas are closed, jumping back into the car gave us a cool spot to refuel and enjoy the views. Red Rock Overlook is your last chance to pull over and snap a photo before you exit Scenic Drive.
Willow Spring Loop and Petroglyph Wall Trail
Just 3.3 miles from the High Point Overlook is the turn onto Rocky Gap Road for access to Willow Spring Loop. This is an easy 1.5-mile out-and-back loop. It has picture displays along the trail that highlights the area as well as agave roasting pits.
Petroglyph Wall Trail starts across the road from the Willow Springs Picnic Area. It’s a very easy walk across a wash to a small collection of petroglyphs.
What Should I Bring for a Trip to Red Rock?
As you would for any hiking trip, bring lots of water, a hat and sunscreen. There are no dining options (there are snack type items for sale at Elements Gift Shop) so pack a picnic lunch, drinks and plenty of munchies. Know what weather is expected for the day you arrive. I’ve seen photos of visits when there was snow on the nearest peaks! Unless you are just doing the Scenic Drive, good hiking shoes are a must.
Surrounding hillsides can hide the sun quickly and once the sun goes down it gets cold fast! So be ready with layered pieces in the car trunk if you think there is a possibility of being in the park near sunset. We got taken by surprise on our last trip and luckily my husband had some warmer gear stashed in the back.
If your exploration of Red Rock left you craving more you can check out our post on the best things to do in Las Vegas with kids here.
Teaching your kids about hiking safety is essential. Get our guide for what to teach your kids about hiking safety.