Glenn's Las Vegas Page - Red Rock Canyon

08/05/06
 
Red Rock Canyon is probably the shortest side trip from Las Vegas. In fact, I can see it as I type this page. Red Rock is a thirteen mile one-way loop that takes you past some good scenery and excellent hiking trails. The best scenery is actually within the first mile. I can think of no other large city with such an expansive natural attraction less than 5 miles from its neighborhoods.
Red Rock Canyon - photo Glenn Adams 04/97
The colors, cliffs and vegetation make for a very pleasant drive. The scenic loop is considered challenging for bicyclists and is not for beginners. It's hilly enough that I had to walk even a moped for about a half mile.  The ocassional burro sightings draw a crowd and stop traffic. They will actually stick their heads into your car, if allowed. Best to heed the signs and not feed them for as the signs say: "They bite". Once you enter, there's no turning back since it's a one way road. You can stop at several pullovers, detour for a picnic lunch, short hike or just drive straight through. Some come here to climb the colorful rocks as an adventure.

There is a small admission fee and the Golden Eagle and Golden Age passes are honored.  Do stop in the Visitors Center before entering the loop road.  There are excellent exhibits of Southern Nevada plants and wildlife inside.  The history of the area is revealed through exhibits showing the Indians, Mormons, John C. Fremont and modern-day visitors.

To get to Red Rock, simply go west on Charleston Blvd. until you see the signs.  It's only about a half hour from the Strip or downtown. Charleston is above Sahara and just past the Stratosphere Tower and you should have a half tank of gas or more before leaving. Gas is sold on Charleston until you cross the 215 beltway. Then it's too late!  Bring film!  Turn right at the visitor's center sign.

Burros are more frequently seen a couple mile past the entrance to the scenic loop and visitor's center. There's also an excellent overlook with picnic tables and restrooms about a mile past this entrance on the right.  This doubles as a good photo point and plaques explain the geology.

You may also elect to go even a few more miles and consider taking the kids to a "gunfight" at nearby Old Nevada-Bonnie Springs Ranch.   Primitive camping is also available near this area.  Those considering a group picnic or interested in early Nevada history should check out Spring Mountain Ranch State Park while in the area.
 


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