Just about 10 miles west of Las Vegas, lies a not-so-hidden-treasure in the desert. According to an article from the Las Vegas Sun, it’s the closest and more accessible of the four federally managed outdoor areas in Clark County. More than a million visitors make the drive to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area annually and with 196,000 acres of trails for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding and four-wheel driving, there’s more than enough room. Several tour companies offer tours that range from about $65 to $500 but there are also picnic areas and a paved 13-mile scenic loop for the less adventurous visitors that still want to admire the desert landscapes.
Watch Out for Bicyclists
Hikers out at Red Rock should be wary of sharp turns and narrow paths as mountain bikers tend to travel faster than most visitors. The right-of-way rules are that bikes must yield to pedestrians and horses and that everyone must yield to horses, but everyone should use caution when sharing trails.
Other Tips to Remember:
According to Red Rock Canyon’s Web site, there are a few precautions to consider before arriving to the park for the day:
- Carry water with you. Most people need a gallon a day while hiking. Extra clothing, layers of clothing and hats protect you in the summer sun and winter cold.
- Be wary of nearby storms; violent downpours can cause flash flooding in areas untouched by rain. Do not cross low places when water is running.
- All natural and historic features such as animals, plants, rocks and Indian artifacts are protected. Do not disturb, damage or remove.
- The 13-mile Loop Drive is one-way only. Driving off designated roads is prohibited.
- Climbing on sandstone requires equipment and experience; it is a soft, crumbly rock. Sandstone cannot be climbed within 24-hours of major rainstorms.
- Fires are allowed at designated sites, either in the cooking grills provided or in your own container. Ground fires are prohibited.
- Treat wildlife with respect. Wild burros may bite or kick causing serious injuries. Please do not feed burros or other wildlife.
- Please tell a responsible party where you are going, your route, when you will return, how many are in your party, your vehicle description and license number.
- Red Rock Canyon NCA averages 294 days of sunshine per year (211 clear days, 83 partly cloudy days). With an average annual rainfall of 4.13 inches and an average humidity around 29%. The average temperature is 66.3 degrees (19 degrees centigrade).
