Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a spectacular and often overlooked natural wonder just outside Las Vegas. Red Rock Canyon’s proximity to the city makes for an easy day trip after partying has ceased.
What makes Red Rock Canyon so special?
More than 500 million years ago, Red Rock Canyon was at the bottom of an ocean. Now it is filled diverse rock formations, natural beauty, and vivid colors that are sure to delight your Instagram followers and awaken your inner geologist.
And Red Rock Canyon is only a 30-40 minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip!
Activities in Red Rock Canyon
There is a small fee to enter. When we went, it was seven dollars for a car. #worthit.
Stop at the visitor center to pick up a map and talk to the park rangers. The visitor center displays excellent indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Red Rock Canyon boasts miles of hiking trails, rock climbing, horseback riding, mountain biking, road biking, and picnic areas. Here is a guide to climbing and hiking in the park, including a trail map, trail descriptions, and safety tips. Keep an eye out for dinosaur bones!
Almost to the summit!
Perfect for yoga
Look for pops of color from cacti and flowers peaking out against the red desert backdrop.
Globe mallow flowers
Cactus closeup
Throughout Red Rock Canyon, you can see individuals taking on feats of rock scrambling, climbing, or slack-lining. Take time to observe—or try it yourself!
A brave soul slacklining
Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive
If you aren’t a hiker and just want to go for a scenic drive, Red Rock Canyon is also for you. The 13-mile loop winds through the canyon, and has multiple areas to stop the car. You can go on short walks or just take photos.
View from the road
Make sure to stop at Red Rock Canyon Overlook during the scenic drive. It’s a great spot to get out of the car, observe the canyon, and enjoy a beverage.
High Point Overlook after a day of hiking
Oh, and stay for sunset. You won’t be disappointed.
Sunset at Red Rock Canyon
Desert moon
Have you been to Red Rock Canyon? What are your favorite hikes?
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Want to see more of Red Rock Canyon?
Check out these awesome photos from our friend Mica Prazak of Papa Fly Productions.
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Hi, I'm Sarah! I write and illustrate the comic Adventures with Vrah (adventureswithvrah.com), where I discuss the 3 D's: Death, Depression, and Diarrhea. I'm also one of the Fish from my travel blog, Two Fish Traveling (twofishtraveling.com). I LOVE squirrel monkeys. And crocodiles. And fireworks.
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