TravTalk India Online Magazine
One of the most scenic places in southern Nevada, USA, is as popular with visitors as it is with locals, and that place is Red Rock Canyon. Hands-down one of the most breathtaking places in the Silver State, nearly 2 million people come here to explore red-banded canyons, towering sandstone peaks, and ancient petroglyphs.
Whether you are travelling across Nevada or from across the globe, the glorious desert landscape of Las Vegas and the surrounding area is definitely worth the trip. Red Rock Canyon, which measures more than 195,000 acres, is Nevada’s first National Conservation Area and serves as a mecca which exemplifies the unique qualities of the Mojave Desert. Although the recreation area is just 27 kms (17 miles) west of the Las Vegas Strip – close enough that peak tops are visible from the Las Vegas Valley – it is worlds away in terms of atmosphere.
Take in the startling contrast of red sandstone layered through grey limestone in the sheer cliff faces, some of which reach a staggering 1,800 feet, is an incredible natural wonder that won’t soon be forgotten. Beyond the spectacular sightseeing and photography opportunities, Red Rock Canyon offers an array of recreational activities, too. Visitors can horseback ride, picnic and rock climb, which is a very popular activity in Red Rock Nevada. Horseback enthusiasts will find numerous trails among the fiery red sandstone. We also recommend stopping by the visitors’ centre to check out the bookstore and exhibit rooms. With a 21-km (13-mile) scenic drive that covers picturesque hiking trails, there’s something for every member of your family or car troupe to enjoy here.
Red Rock’s Climbing
Serious rock climbers crave the challenges of Red Rock’s climbing, from its towering sandstone ridges to its huge boulders. With more than 1,200 named routes, there are plenty of choices for every ability. Most of the rock is Aztec sandstone. The desert varnish rock is considered to be the most difficult, but the most exhilarating! Climbing Red Rock Canyon has a few perks — and it’s not just the few hundred short sport routes and big 20-pitch outings. Before choosing and tackling your line though, make sure you’re checking the weather! While Red Rock Canyon stays relatively warm, rain, rock climbing and wet sandstone don’t mix too well.
The best thing about Red Rock Canyon, Nevada, is the availability of bolted anchors on the many popular multi-pitch routes. At Red Rock, you’ll experience true freedom away from the noise and traffic of city lights during the day. If you’re at Red Rock National Conservation Area at night, you’ll be able to see the glow of the city lights from Las Vegas. Only then will you realise how close you are to the city!
Red Rock’s Hiking
While rock climbing Red Rock is a popular experience, many visitors forget the epic hiking available throughout this massive area. Lost Canyon Children’s Discovery Trail: This trail can be easily enjoyed by everyone. Less than a 2-km round-trip with a 200-foot elevation gain, Lost Canyon Children’s Discovery Trail includes waterfalls, natural tunnels, petroglyphs, a boardwalk, stone stairs, and more than a few opportunities to catch some wildlife.
Keystone Thrust Trail: If you are looking to thoroughly immerse yourself in the geological grandeur of the area, the Keystone Thrust Trail is where the Pacific and North American continental plates signed their names into the earth. This hike is about 3.5 kms (2.2 miles) round-trip and offers 360-degree views of Calico Hills. The elevation gain for this hike is 400 feet and will begin from White Rock parking lot.
White Rock/Willow Spring Loop Trail: This hike could be considered moderate for some, but only if you choose to add La Madre Spring to the mix. The White Rock/Willow Spring Loop is 7.1 kms (4.4 miles). You will start this hike from White Rock parking lot, too! This trail will take you through a quintessential desert landscape.
Challenging hikes
Turtlehead Peak Trail: This is a strenuous, 8-km (5-mile) hike through exposed ledges, climbs past sandstone crags, and interesting washes. As you start to gain elevation, hikers will traverse rocks, gullies and more. The Turtlehead Peak Trail begins at Sandstone Quarry parking lot. Length: 8 kms
Calico Tank Trail: Even though this hike is only 4 kms (2.5 miles), there are a few parts that can be tricky to navigate. You will gain about 400 feet in elevation as you walk up some interestingly constructed stone stairs. This is an in-and-out hike, meaning you will leave on the same trail you came in on. Length: 4 kms
Ice Box Trail: Ice Box Trail is best taken during spring and showcases dramatic high-walled yellow and charred-looking canyon formations, junipers, pinyon pines, and large boulders, some the size of cars! The trail envelops adventurers by surrounding them with steep walls that rise up around on three sides. Length: 3.7 kms
Calico Hills: Not too far away from the visitors’ centre, Calico Hills are a signature point of interest for tourists to the area. The hills can be accessed from a few points, but there are two main parking lots that people typically take off from. This hike is 9.7 kms (6 miles) round-trip and runs along the front side of the red stone ridge. Length: 9.7 kms
