Despite being just a thirty minute drive, Red Rock Canyon is a place that feels as if it’s a million miles away from the lights and action (and overstimulation?) of the Las Vegas Strip.
When I decided to visit Red Rock Canyon, I didn’t really know much about it. I was on a whirlwind trip to Vegas visiting a friend who lives there, and he mentioned that it was his favourite place in town. And so, with very little convincing, he agreed to hop in the car and head over.
Driving in, I was immediately got it. I was overwhelmed not just at the sheer scale and beauty, but also its proximity to civilisation. The late afternoon sun seemed to set the already brightly coloured rocks on fire, while the towering sandstone mountains loomed on the other side of the park.
After spending the day here, I can confidently say that a trip to Red Rock Canyon should be on every Vegas visitor’s bucketlist.
Things to Know Before Visiting Red Rock Canyon
Location
Red Rock Canyon is located in the Mojave Desert, about a thirty minute drive west of Las Vegas depending on traffic.
The nearest airport is Harry Reid International Airport, which is conveniently located in the heart of the city.
Native Land
Historians believe that as many as six different native cultures have used the land that we now call Red Rock Canyon over the past 10,000 years.
The two most recent were the Patayan Culture and Southern Palute, who both came to the area around 900CE and persisted until the late 1800s when the Old Spanish Trail was built.
Entrance Fee
Daytime entry for Red Rock Canyon is currently by timed reservation only, which you have to book online in advance.
Current entrance fees are $20 per vehicle, with an additional $2 reservation fee added to every order. Entry is free with an Interagency Pass, but you’ll still have to make a reservation and pay the $2 fee.
Weather
Being in the middle of a literal desert, weather at Red Rocks can reach dangerously high temperatures during the summer. If you’re planning on leaving the car to explore at all, I’d plan on making your trip sometime during the late fall through early spring, where daytime temperatures are pretty mild.
Camping
Red Rocks Canyon Campground has more than 50 individual sites available, with a mix of both tent and RV spots. It is considered fully developed featuring paved walkways, accessible restrooms, clean drinking water, and shared picnic sites.
Must Do Activities in Red Rock Canyon
Tour the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive
This thirteen mile scenic loop around Red Rock Canyon takes you past all the biggest sights
See Desert Tortoises at the Visitor Center
The first building you’ll see after you enter the park is the Visitor Center. You should definitely stop here.
The outdoor area not only has really great interpretive stations for learning about Red Rock Canyon, but also a tortoise habitat! The desert tortoises that live here are all rescued former pets, and are considered a threatened species due to habitat loss.
WIld sightings of these creatures are extremely rare, so this is a great opportunity to see the ‘wildlife’ up close. Your best bet to spotting one is to come in the afternoon, when they’re often found basking themselves in the sunlight.
Stop at High Point Overlook
The views here are absolutely incredible, spanning wide across the canyon from the Calico Hills to Diamond Peak. High Point Overlook is located right off Scenic Loop Drive, with a small parking lot that sometimes overflows when its busy.
If you can get here around dusk, its one of the prettiest places in the park to watch the sun set, especially as the city lights twinkling in the distance become visible as the day softly fades into night.
Saddle Up with Cowboy Trailrides
While I haven’t done this one yet myself, this is top on my list for the next time I visit Las Vegas. Cowboy Trailrides offer a range of experiences, from hour-long trail rides through the canyon to a full cowboy chuckwagon barbecue experience under the stars.
They also offer a complimentary shuttle service from ten different hotels on The Strip, which is especially ideal for anyone wanting to explore Red Rock Canyon without going through the hassle of renting a car.
The Best Day Hikes in Red Rock Canyon
Calico Tanks Trail
If you only have time for one hike inside the park, make it this one! The views here are seriously beautiful, showcasing the vibrant yellows and reds that the area is known for. You will have to do a fair bit of scrambling and climbing along the way, but that’s all part of the fun. This can also be combined with the Calico Hills Trail for a more strenuous hike.
For more information, check out this trail guide.
Lost Creek Trail
This is a very easy out-and-back trail that is also a designated children’s discovery route that ends at a very pretty waterfall. It is best in the springtime to see all of the wildflowers that sprout up after the winter rains.
For more information, check out this trail guide.
Ice Box Canyon Trail
Located all the way on the other side of the park, this trail features the towering sandstone bluffs that make up the western landscape. The trail itself is relatively primitive and not well marked in parts, so be mindful as you ascent!
For more information, check out this trail guide.
Safety in Red Rock Canyon
- Sturdy shoes with high socks are recommended at all times of year to protect against both the elements and the critters you may encounter on the trail.
- Cell service is extremely limited throughout a majority of the park – although a free phone charging station is available at the visitor center!
- It is extremely important to check the weather before you go – flash floods are common during winter months, and afternoon lightning frequently strikes during the summer.
