Our Second Trip
I felt so exhilarated as we started our drive through the amazing Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. We had stopped here a few years ago at sunset and enjoyed it, but wished we had more time to explore. As you know, when the sunsets its really hard to explore and navigate an outdoor area. They do close shortly after sunset as well. So, when we were headed back to Las Vegas I looked at Jim and said “Lets’ go back, it was so cool and we didn’t have nearly enough time.” Of course he said, “Yes.”
When we arrived in Las Vegas I googled Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. I’m glad I did because they had a timed entry reservation system that was required to enter the area. This is how the area is helping with social distancing. So we made our reservation to arrive and planned our day.
Visitor Center
As you enter the area you will first come to the visitor center. If you definitely want to see the visitor center, you must go there first. You cannot come back to it at the end of your visit! You do not exit out the same way you entered. The first time through we didn’t have time due to the sunsetting.
When we arrived it was mid morning and the way the sun hit the sandstone and rock formations was absolutely beautiful. You can see the different layers of colors and etchings on the rock face from being weathered by wind and water. The tans, browns and reds just pop off the background and it is exhilarating. It is an artists paradise, whether your are a photographer or painter. The plethora colorful backdrop makes for some amazing pictures and paintings.
Hiking Trails
Red Rock National conservation Area has many look outs to stop and check things out and snap some pictures. There are also trails for all activity levels. Easy trails starting at as little as .15 of a mile, moderate trails starting a 2.2 miles and difficult trails as long as 14 miles. It is great that there is something for everyone. I was so excited to go back and it didn’t disappoint. It was a beautiful 80 degree day with lots of sunshine and just a light breeze. After being in Florida for the last several months and the humidity, it was a glorious day to explore.
There are many things to look for along your hikes like pictographs, agave roasting pits, natural springs and wildlife just to name a few. The map you receive upon entering the park will give you all the information you need for what each trails activity level is and what to expect. Just make sure that you are dressed for the weather, have your sunscreen and lots of water.
Calico Hills Trail
We got to the first stop which was Calico Hills Trail and I was up and out of the car. You couldn’t stop me, I was off down the trail. So excited to see everything. I normally look and say, “Oh that’s a hill.” “If I go down it’s gonna be a hike coming back up.” But not this day, this day there was no stopping me. I kept going down and seeing more and wanting to go further. Ooh, I see a rock and it’s a great place for a picture. Up I climbed ready for my moment in the spotlight, lol. It was such a fun time.
I will confess that the Calico trails are moderate trails and we did not continue very far. We packed light for our trip. It was never our plan to spend the day hiking. So we turned around and headed back to the car ready for our next stop. We just wanted to explore the area. Take some great photos and enjoy our time together in the beautiful area of Red Rock.
13 Mile Loop
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is approximately 30 mins drive from the Las Vegas Strip. It is so close to all the excitement. But when you are driving around the 13 mile loop road it is like you are in another world or on a different planet.
Make sure, the next time you’re visiting the Las Vegas, Nevada area, you plan your visit to Red Rock National Conservation Area. The cost was $2 for the timed entry reservation and $15 per car, $10 per motorcycle and $5 per pedestrian/bicycle. You may also use your National Park Pass to enter which was very convenient.
There are many ways to get to Red Rock National Conservation area. You can drive your car or take a tour with several companies. There are jeep tours, scooter tours, bicycle tours and many more.
In closing, the Red Rock National Conservation Area is definitely a must see when you plan your next visit to the Las Vegas Nevada Area. Let the Beauty of the Red Rock landscape take your breath away.
