Just Outside Of Las Vegas Lies A Scenic Canyon That's Perfect For Day Hikes

When you think of Las Vegas, there are certain things that pop into your head immediately. There's the old "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" ad campaign. You may also think of roulette wheels, Elvis impersonators, endless cocktails, and slot machines. Then there are the world-class Las Vegas shows, food, and themed casinos. However, just outside of Sin City sits Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, and it's a breath of fresh air after the decadence and whimsy of Nevada's most famous metropolis. Red Rock Canyon has some incredible hikes, and scenery that would put any Cirque du Soleil show to shame. If you need a break from flashing lights and the sound of the slot machines, a short, 30-minute drive from the Vegas Strip will bring you right to this 200,000-acre natural paradise where you can climb, drive, bike, and hike to your heart's content. Then you can be back at the slots before dinner with your phone's camera roll full of sunset-hued pics of Red Rock's astonishing scenery.

Red Rock is a few minutes closer if you're coming directly from Harry Reid International Airport, which is only around 23 miles away. The entry fee at the time of this writing is $20 per vehicle, $10 per motorcycle, $8 for bicyclists, and $5 if you walk in, and cash and credit are both accepted. There is no public transportation to the park, but you may be able to find tours that pick you up from your hotel. Just note that there is little cell service in the park, so rideshare and taxi pickups should be scheduled beforehand if you're using them. 

When you get to Red Rock, it's a good idea to hit the Visitor Center, which has hiking guides, restrooms, and the Elements Gift Shop. You can ask about the best hikes for what you're looking for that day and get some important safety tips. Here, you'll also find exhibits where you can learn about the flora and fauna in the area, and even check out some live desert tortoises. If you're feeling a little off from overindulgence (we're not judging), there is a 13-mile Scenic Drive with some great spots to pull over for pictures, pretty views, and some trailheads, which you can also do on a bike. However, the hiking here is so lovely that you're going to want to get out and move your legs. If you do choose to drive, you'll need timed reservations from October 1 through May 31, so keep that in mind. You can also camp in the park, however, there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups, no showers, and there are vault toilets only.

Red Rock Canyon is beautiful, but there are things to remember before you set out on a hike. First, always check the weather. Temperature can vary by elevation, however, it's very chilly in the winter (it can drop below freezing at night), and very, very hot and dry in the summer. Average highs in June, July, and August are in the 90s Fahrenheit, and can get higher. So, if you plan to visit at that time, make sure you know the best ways to avoid heat stroke outdoors, and bring plenty of water and electrolytes. That goes double if you've spent a few nights indulging a bit. 

Red Rock Canyon has over 20 hikes that begin near the Scenic Drive, and more beyond that. You can check out a park map, which has hiking information, trailhead locations, distances, warnings, and places to see waterfalls at certain times of the year. One easy hike is the Pine Creek Canyon, Knoll, and Fire Ecology Loop. This trail is 2.8 miles long with a 265-foot elevation gain, and links you to another trail. There isn't a lot of shade here, so an early hike is a good idea. Another easy one is the Moenkopi Trail which starts right from the Visitor Center. It's 2 miles round trip with a 300-foot elevation gain. You'll find some pretty stunning views of the hills and mountains surrounding you on this hike. Then there is the Petroglyph Wall Trail, which is short at less than half a mile and pretty flat, but you can see some ancient petroglyphs along the way.

If you're looking for a waterfall hike (with water running, depending on the time of year), there is the moderate First Creek Canyon Trail to the Grotto, which is 3.5 miles out and back on a well-marked trail. You'll end up at the top of the falls. If you want a real challenge, you can take the 3.6-mile Kraft Mountain Loop, which has a 620-foot elevation gain. You may catch a glimpse of people doing some rock climbing from this hike. Finally, if you're heading out for a hike in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, take a tip from a search and rescue worker and leave a note with your hiking plans and emergency contacts in your glove compartment.