Last Updated: October 2025
Standing at the Calico Tanks overlook, watching the sun paint the red sandstone formations in brilliant orange hues while the Las Vegas Strip glimmers in the distance below, I'm reminded why Red Rock Canyon is my favorite escape from the city's bright lights.
Just 20 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers some of the most spectacular desert hiking in Nevada. The vivid red and white sandstone formations, challenging scrambles, hidden water pockets, and stunning vistas make this a must-visit destination for anyone spending time in Vegas.
I've hiked Red Rock Canyon dozens of times over the years, and every trail offers something unique. Whether you're an experienced hiker looking for a challenge or a casual visitor wanting an easy nature walk, Red Rock has a trail for you.
In this complete guide, I'll share everything you need to know about hiking Red Rock Canyon: the best trails, how to get there, what to bring, insider tips, and how to make the most of your desert adventure.
Planning your Vegas trip? Find the perfect Las Vegas hotel to use as your base for incredible outdoor adventures like this!
Red Rock Canyon is a stunning desert landscape managed by the Bureau of Land Management, located just west of Las Vegas. The area was designated as Nevada's first National Conservation Area in 1990.
Size: 198,000 acres
Distance from Las Vegas Strip: 17 miles (27 km)
Elevation range: 3,600 to 7,068 feet
Established: 1990 as National Conservation Area
Annual visitors: Over 2 million
Main feature: 13-mile scenic loop drive
Number of trails: 30+ hiking trails
Geology: 65-million-year-old red Aztec sandstone
Rock climbing routes: 2,000+ established routes
Best for: Hiking, rock climbing, scenic drives, photography, wildlife viewing
Why It's Special: The dramatic red rock formations create a stunning contrast against the blue desert sky. The easily accessible trails range from short nature walks to challenging peak scrambles, making outdoor adventure possible for visitors of all abilities.
Distance: 17 miles (27 km) from Las Vegas Strip
Drive Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on traffic)
Route: West on Charleston Boulevard/SR-159
From the Las Vegas Strip, head west on Charleston Boulevard (SR-159)
Continue for approximately 17 miles
You'll pass through residential areas, then enter open desert
Look for the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center on your left
Entry station is just past the Visitor Center
GPS Address: Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center, 1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161
🚗 Rental Car (Best Option!) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pros: Most flexible; explore at your own pace; access multiple trailheads; come and go as you please Cons: Have to drive and navigate; parking can fill up Cost: Rental rates vary Parking: Free at trailheads outside scenic drive; included with entry fee inside
My Pick: This is what I always do! Having a car gives you complete freedom.
Book here: Rent a car for your Red Rock adventure
🚌 Guided Hiking Tours ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pros: Expert guide; no driving; learn about geology and wildlife; transportation included; all gear provided Cons: Fixed schedule; less flexibility; group pace Cost: $100-180 per person
Book here:
Great for: First-timers, those who don't want to drive, solo travelers, people who want to learn
🚖 Uber/Lyft ⭐⭐
Pros: No driving; direct to visitor center Cons: Very expensive ($40-60 each way); hard to get return ride; driver won't wait; can't access multiple trailheads Cost: $80-120 round trip
Not recommended unless you're visiting just the Visitor Center area.
CRITICAL: From October 1 through May 31, Red Rock Canyon requires timed entry reservations for the Scenic Drive between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Reservation Details:
When required: October 1 - May 31, 8 AM - 5 PM
Where to book: Recreation.gov
How far in advance: Up to 7 days ahead
Cost: $2 reservation fee (plus entry fee)
Entry window: 1-hour window (but can stay all day once entered)
Peak season: November-April (book as early as possible!)
Without Reservation:
If you can't get a reservation or prefer not to book:
Visit before 8:00 AM (Scenic Drive opens at 6:00 AM)
Visit after 5:00 PM (until closing)
June-September: No reservations required!
Per vehicle: $15 (valid for 7 days)
Motorcycle: $10
Per person (walking/biking): $5
Annual Red Rock Pass: $30 (great value if visiting multiple times!)
America the Beautiful Pass: Accepted ($80/year for all federal lands)
Pro Tip: If you're hiking multiple days or plan to return, buy the annual pass at the Visitor Center!
Scenic Drive (Summer, June-Sept): 6 AM - 8 PM
Scenic Drive (Winter, Oct-May): 6 AM - 7 PM
Visitor Center: 8 AM - 4:30 PM daily
First-Come Parking: Available at some trailheads outside the fee area
Distance: 2.5 miles round trip Elevation gain: 450 feet Difficulty: Moderate (some scrambling) Time: 2-3 hours Trailhead: Sandstone Quarry (Stop 3 on Scenic Drive)
Why I love it: This is THE classic Red Rock hike! You'll scramble over colorful sandstone, navigate fun rock sections, and reach a natural water tank (tinaja) with incredible views of Las Vegas in the distance.
What to expect:
Starts across sandy wash
Colorful red and white sandstone formations
Moderate rock scrambling (use hands in places)
Natural water pocket at the end (often dry in summer)
Spectacular valley and city views
Very popular (arrive early!)
Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, families with older kids (8+), moderate hikers
Insider tips:
Go early (before 9 AM) to beat crowds and heat
Wear shoes with good grip for slick rock sections
Bring plenty of water (exposed trail, little shade)
Continue past the tanks to the higher overlook for even better views!
Distance: 3.1 miles loop Elevation gain: 250 feet Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Time: 1.5-2 hours Trailhead: Sandstone Quarry (Stop 3 on Scenic Drive)
Why I love it: A beautiful loop through multi-colored sandstone formations with much less rock scrambling than Calico Tanks. Perfect for those who want scenery without the challenge.
What to expect:
Winds through striking red and white rock formations
Sandy washes and well-marked trail
Wildflowers in spring (March-May)
Views of Turtlehead Peak
Can be combined with Calico Tanks for longer hike
Best for: Beginners, families with young kids, trail runners, casual hikers
Insider tip: This makes a great warm-up hike before attempting Calico Tanks!
Distance: 5 miles round trip Elevation gain: 2,000 feet Difficulty: Strenuous (steep scrambling) Time: 3-4 hours Trailhead: Sandstone Quarry (Stop 3 on Scenic Drive)
Why I love it: The most challenging and rewarding hike in Red Rock! The summit views are absolutely incredible - 360-degree panoramas of the entire valley.
What to expect:
Steep, relentless climbing
Significant rock scrambling (Class 2-3)
Exposed sections (not for those afraid of heights!)
Can be confusing - follow cairns carefully
Summit at 6,323 feet
Unbeatable views of Las Vegas Valley and surrounding peaks
Best for: Experienced hikers, summit seekers, fitness enthusiasts, adventure lovers
Insider tips:
Start EARLY (before 7 AM in summer)
Not recommended in high winds
Bring trekking poles for descent
Take your time on the scrambles - it's not a race!
Very exposed - bring extra sun protection
Distance: 2.6 miles round trip Elevation gain: 350 feet Difficulty: Moderate Time: 2-3 hours Trailhead: Ice Box Canyon parking area (Stop 6 on Scenic Drive)
Why I love it: You hike up a narrow canyon between towering sandstone walls, ending at a seasonal waterfall. It's much cooler in the canyon (hence the name!) and feels like a different world.
What to expect:
Dramatic canyon with high walls
Shaded hiking (especially morning)
Can be 10-15°F cooler than surrounding areas
Seasonal waterfall at the end (best after rain/spring)
Rock scrambling near the end
Lush vegetation in the canyon
Best for: Hot summer days, waterfall seekers, photographers, those wanting shade
Insider tips:
Best after winter rains for waterfall
Morning light in the canyon is magical
Wear layers - canyon is cool, but approach is hot
Can be very crowded on weekends
Distance: 7 miles loop Elevation gain: 800 feet Difficulty: Moderate (distance) Time: 3-4 hours Trailhead: White Rock/Willow Spring parking (Stop 7)
Why I love it: A longer, less crowded loop with diverse scenery - white rock formations, desert landscape, and a historic spring. Great for trail runners!
What to expect:
White limestone formations (different from red rocks!)
La Madre Springs - historical water source
Desert vegetation and potential wildlife
More solitude than popular trails
Some sandy washes
Best for: Trail runners, longer hikes, those avoiding crowds, experienced hikers
Insider tip: Do this loop clockwise for easier navigation!
Distance: 3 miles round trip Elevation gain: 500 feet Difficulty: Moderate Time: 2-3 hours Trailhead: Pine Creek Canyon parking (Stop 9/10)
Why I love it: Leads to a beautiful canyon with seasonal creek, ponderosa pines, and old homestead ruins. Feels completely different from typical desert hiking!
What to expect:
Ponderosa pine trees (rare in this area!)
Seasonal running water
Historic Wilson Cabin ruins
Lush canyon environment
Popular with rock climbers (Mescalito wall)
Can get narrow and rocky
Best for: History buffs, nature lovers, those wanting variety, photography
Insider tip: Best in spring when water is flowing. Listen for rock climbers shouting on the cliffs!
Distance: 0.7 miles loop Elevation gain: Minimal Difficulty: Easy Time: 30-45 minutes Trailhead: Willow Springs parking (Stop 8)
Why I love it: Short, easy loop perfect for families with young children. Educational signs and a hidden "canyon" to explore!
What to expect:
Paved and well-maintained trail
Educational signs about desert ecology
Small slot canyon (kids love this!)
Agave roasting pits (historical site)
Picnic area at trailhead
Completely kid-friendly
Best for: Families with toddlers/young kids, beginners, quick nature walk
Insider tip: Combine with Willow Springs picnic area for a great family outing!
Distance: 4.5 miles round trip Elevation gain: 500 feet Difficulty: Moderate Time: 2.5-3 hours Trailhead: First Creek Canyon (outside fee area - free!)
Why I love it: No entry fee required! Less crowded, and you can hike deep into a beautiful canyon with seasonal water.
What to expect:
FREE - no Scenic Drive entry needed
Less crowded than trails on Scenic Drive
Rocky canyon hiking
Seasonal creek and pools
Some boulder scrambling
Can extend hike deeper into canyon
Best for: Budget travelers, those avoiding crowds, canyon explorers
Insider tip: This is outside the reservation system area - free and accessible anytime!
Distance: 2.5 miles round trip Elevation gain: 400 feet Difficulty: Moderate Time: 1.5-2 hours Trailhead: Keystone Thrust parking (Stop 1)
Why I love it: Fascinating geological feature where you can see ancient rock layers thrust over younger rocks. Educational and scenic!
What to expect:
Unique geology - dramatic fault line visible
Educational signs explaining the geology
Red and white rock formations
Less crowded than Calico Tanks
Good valley views
Best for: Geology enthusiasts, educators, moderate hikers, photographers
Insider tip: First stop on Scenic Drive - great way to start your visit!
Distance: 2.1 miles loop Elevation gain: 200 feet Difficulty: Easy Time: 1-1.5 hours Trailhead: Visitor Center
Why I love it: No Scenic Drive entry needed! Loop starts right from the Visitor Center, perfect for a quick hike or evening walk.
What to expect:
FREE - no entry fee needed
Easy, well-marked loop
Desert landscape and rock formations
Sunset views (faces west)
Educational signs
Accessible from Visitor Center
Best for: Sunset hikes, those without reservations, quick walks, beginners
Insider tip: Perfect for late afternoon/sunset when Scenic Drive closes or is booked!
Lost Creek Children's Discovery Trail (0.7 mi)
Moenkopi Loop (2.1 mi)
Calico Hills (3.1 mi)
Calico Tanks (2.5 mi) ⭐ Most Popular
Ice Box Canyon (2.6 mi)
Keystone Thrust (2.5 mi)
Pine Creek Canyon (3 mi)
First Creek Canyon (4.5 mi)
Turtlehead Peak (5 mi) ⭐ Best workout
White Rock/La Madre Springs (7 mi)
First-time visitors: Calico Tanks (iconic Red Rock experience!)
Families with kids: Lost Creek Children's Discovery Trail or Calico Hills
Photographers: Calico Tanks (sunrise), Ice Box Canyon (morning), Turtlehead Peak (summit views)
Workout seekers: Turtlehead Peak (serious challenge!)
Waterfall hunters: Ice Box Canyon (seasonal)
Crowd avoiders: First Creek Canyon, White Rock Springs, Pine Creek Canyon
Sunset hikers: Moenkopi Loop (west-facing views)
Hot summer days: Ice Box Canyon (shade!), or hike before 8 AM
Location: End of Calico Tanks Trail What: Red rock formations with Las Vegas Strip in background Why: Iconic Red Rock shot combining nature and city Best time: Sunrise or late afternoon Tip: Climb to the upper overlooks for even better views!
Location: Multiple pullouts along 13-mile loop What: Sweeping views of red rock escarpment Why: Easiest accessible views, dramatic formations Best time: Morning (front-lit) or sunset (golden hour) Tip: High Point Overlook and Red Rock Overlook are must-stops!
Location: Inside canyon walls What: Narrow slot canyon with towering walls Why: Dramatic light and shadow, unique perspective Best time: Mid-morning (light in canyon) Tip: Shoot looking up at the canyon walls!
Location: Summit at 6,323 feet What: 360-degree panoramic views Why: Best overall views in Red Rock Best time: Early morning (cooler) or late afternoon Tip: Bring wide-angle lens for panoramas!
Location: White Rock/La Madre Springs Trail What: Unique white limestone against red rocks Why: Color contrast, less photographed Best time: Afternoon light Tip: Different from typical red rock photos!
Clean your lens frequently (dusty environment!)
Use HDR mode for high-contrast scenes
Shoot during golden hour (hour after sunrise, hour before sunset)
Portrait mode for depth in canyon shots
Use burst mode for action/scrambling shots
Wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for landscapes
Polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors
Tripod for low-light shots
Shoot in RAW for maximum editing flexibility
70-200mm lens for compression and detail shots
Sunrise (6:00-7:30 AM):
Soft golden light on red rocks
Empty trails
Cooler temperatures
East-facing rocks illuminated
Morning (7:30-10:00 AM):
Great light, manageable temperatures
Red rocks well-lit
Good contrast
Midday (11:00 AM-3:00 PM):
Harsh overhead light
Strong shadows
VERY HOT in summer
Better for slot canyons (light penetrates)
Afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM):
Warming light
West-facing formations illuminated
Good for canyons
Sunset (5:00-7:00 PM):
Dramatic golden hour light
Red rocks glow orange/red
Beautiful sky colors
Moenkopi Loop faces west (perfect!)
My Recommendation: Sunrise is THE BEST time for photography - soft light, vibrant colors, empty trails, and cooler temps!
✅ Water - Minimum 2 liters per person (3-4 liters in summer!) ✅ Sun protection - Hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen ✅ Proper footwear - Hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip ✅ Snacks - Energy bars, trail mix, fruit ✅ Phone - For emergencies and navigation ✅ ID - Always carry identification ✅ First aid kit - Basic supplies
✅ Trail map or downloaded offline map (AllTrails app)
✅ Trekking poles (helpful for scrambles and descents)
✅ Electrolyte supplements (hot weather)
✅ Whistle (emergency signal)
✅ Headlamp (if hiking early/late)
✅ Extra layer (mornings can be cool, canyons are shaded)
✅ Camera/phone with charged battery
✅ Portable charger
✅ Backpack with hydration reservoir
✅ Gloves (for scrambling)
✅ Bandana (dust, sweat)
✅ Binoculars (wildlife viewing)
✅ GPS device
✅ Climbing chalk (for slippery rock sections)
❌ Glass containers (prohibited)
❌ Drones (prohibited without permit)
❌ Pets on most trails (only allowed on some - check first)
❌ Speakers/loud music (be respectful!)
Hydration:
Drink BEFORE you're thirsty
Minimum 2 liters per person, 3-4 in summer
Bring electrolytes (water alone isn't enough in extreme heat)
Signs of dehydration: dizziness, headache, dark urine
Heat Illness Prevention:
Hike early (before 10 AM) in summer
Take breaks in shade
Wet your hat/bandana to cool down
Know signs of heat exhaustion: nausea, weakness, confusion
Sun Exposure:
Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours
Very little shade on most trails
Desert sun is intense even in winter!
UV rays reflect off rock surfaces
Navigation:
Trails can be confusing at rock scrambles
Download offline maps before hiking
Follow cairns (rock piles marking trail)
Take photos at junctions to help on return
Turn around if lost - don't continue randomly
Wildlife:
Rattlesnakes (watch where you step!)
Desert tortoises (don't touch - they're protected!)
Scorpions (shake out shoes)
Coyotes (rare to see, not dangerous)
Bighorn sheep (keep distance, don't approach)
Rock Scrambling Safety:
Test handholds before trusting weight
Three points of contact (two hands, one foot or vice versa)
Don't kick rocks down on hikers below
Climb within your ability - it's okay to turn around!
Emergency Information:
911 works from most areas
Cell service is generally good
Nearest hospital: 20-30 minutes in Las Vegas
Stay on trail if injured - easier for rescue
Yield to uphill hikers (they have right of way)
Stay on marked trails (prevent erosion)
Pack out ALL trash (yes, including orange peels and banana peels!)
Don't move or stack rocks (except on established trails)
Keep noise down (respect nature and other hikers)
No graffiti or rock carving (illegal and disrespectful)
Stay back from wildlife (at least 25 feet)
Summer (June-September):
Temperature: 100-115°F+ (38-46°C)
Extreme heat danger
Hike only before 9 AM or after 6 PM
Risk of thunderstorms (July-August monsoons)
Fall (October-November):
Temperature: 70-85°F (21-29°C)
PERFECT hiking weather! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Comfortable all day
Peak season (crowded)
Winter (December-February):
Temperature: 45-65°F (7-18°C)
Cool mornings, pleasant afternoons
Can be windy
Occasional rain/snow at higher elevations
Excellent hiking weather! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spring (March-May):
Temperature: 65-90°F (18-32°C)
Wildflowers bloom (March-April)
Getting hot by late May
Great hiking weather! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Can be windy
My Recommendation: October through April is ideal! Summer is dangerously hot - only hike at sunrise or sunset.
Check weather forecast before hiking
Avoid slot canyons during thunderstorms
Rain miles away can cause flash floods here
If you see dark clouds or hear thunder: GET OUT OF CANYONS
Never camp in washes
Drive the 13-mile Scenic Loop
Stop at 2-3 overlooks
Quick walk on Moenkopi Loop or Lost Creek Trail
Visit Visitor Center
Complete Scenic Drive with stops
One moderate hike (Calico Tanks or Ice Box Canyon)
Visitor Center exhibits
Lunch in car or at picnic area
Scenic Drive
Two hikes (one easy, one moderate/strenuous)
Visitor Center
Lunch break
Photography time
Rock climbing viewing
Day 1: Calico Tanks, Ice Box Canyon, Scenic Drive
Day 2: Turtlehead Peak (morning), Pine Creek Canyon (afternoon)
Day 3: First Creek Canyon, Keystone Thrust, Moenkopi sunset
My Recommendation: Plan for a half-day (4-5 hours). This gives you time for the Scenic Drive, one great hike, and doesn't feel rushed!
Red Rock Canyon makes a perfect half-day or full-day trip when combined with:
Colorful art installation
Completely free!
Perfect for Instagram photos
Quick 15-30 minute stop
Sample Half-Day Itinerary:
6:30 AM: Leave Vegas
7:00 AM: Sunrise at Red Rock, Calico Tanks hike
10:00 AM: Scenic Drive
11:30 AM: Drive to 7 Magic Mountains
12:00 PM: Photos at 7 Magic Mountains
1:00 PM: Return to Vegas
Stunning red rock formations
Ancient petroglyphs
More hiking trails
Nevada's oldest state park
Sample Full-Day Itinerary:
6:00 AM: Leave Vegas
7:00 AM: Sunrise hike at Red Rock
10:00 AM: Drive to Valley of Fire (1 hour)
11:00 AM: Valley of Fire hiking and sightseeing
4:00 PM: Return to Vegas
Historic ranch and buildings
Picnic areas with shade (rare!)
Peacocks roaming freely
Living history programs
Great for families
Combined Visit:
Morning: Red Rock hiking
Lunch: Spring Mountain Ranch picnic
Afternoon: Ranch tour and relaxation
Book here: Las Vegas show tickets
Perfect after a morning of hiking:
Afternoon: Red Rock Canyon
Evening: Cirque du Soleil or Vegas show
Great way to experience both outdoor and city Vegas!
There are NO RESTAURANTS inside Red Rock Canyon itself. Plan accordingly!
☕ For Breakfast/Coffee Before Your Hike:
Tart + Tartine ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
French-style café
Excellent pastries and coffee
Light breakfast options
5730 W Charleston Blvd (10 min from Red Rock)
Opens 7 AM weekdays, 8 AM weekends
PublicUS ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Modern American café
Great coffee and breakfast
Healthy options
1126 S Rainbow Blvd (15 min from Red Rock)
Original Pancake House ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Classic breakfast
Huge portions
Famous for pancakes
Multiple Vegas locations
Good for post-hike breakfast!
🍔 For Lunch After Your Hike:
Weiss Restaurant Deli Bakery ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Classic Jewish deli
Huge sandwiches
Breakfast all day
2744 N Green Valley Pkwy (20 min)
My favorite post-hike meal!
Violette's Vegan ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Plant-based comfort food
Healthy options after hiking
Great smoothies
8616 W Charleston Blvd (12 min from Red Rock)
Locale Italian Kitchen ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Italian comfort food
Pizza and pasta
Casual atmosphere
2400 N Buffalo Dr (15 min)
Las Vegas Burger Factory ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Creative burgers
Craft beer selection
Casual spot
5180 S Durango Dr (25 min)
Whole Foods Market (Charleston & Buffalo - 12 min)
Grab-and-go options
Prepared foods
Stock up on hiking snacks
Eat at tables outside
Capriotti's Sandwich Shop
Nevada-based chain
The Bobbie