Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas ~ Adventures in Southern California

Red Rock Canyon is a thirty minute drive from Caesar’s Palace on the Las Vegas strip. It offers a great opportunity for rock climbing, hiking, and rock scrambling. Although part of the Mojave Desert, the park has numerous seasonal waterfalls and creeks. Not surprisingly, you will likely encounter a wide variety of unique wildlife. The last time I was in Red Rock, I shared a seat with a sun bathing iguana that was at least 3 feet long. He refused to give up his rock while I rested. He just watched me jealously as I munched on a granola bar. His angry glare reminded me of the old guys who play 1-2$ Hold Em' at the El Cortez Casino downtown.

Although I’ve never had the opportunity to go rock climbing in Red Rock myself, it seems to be a very popular destination for climbers. Most of the park is hard packed sandstone. The park gets it’s red hue from Iron Oxide (rust) trapped in the rocks. I always cross paths with at least a few people who are toting climbing gear around the park.

My favorite thing to do in Red Rock Canyon is the rock scramble to the top of the mountain. Forget about a trail. It’s every man for himself. The distance to the top can be misleading. What looks like a 15minute climb, will probably take 90 minutes or more. When you reach the Summit, you get a 360 degree panoramic view that stretches for 100 miles in every direction. The pictures you take in Red Rock will make you envy of your Facebook friends.

A few words of warning about Red Rock: You can pretty much forget about doing this park from June-August. The daily temperatures are usually in the 110+ degree range. That’s the kind of heat that can kill anyone, regardless of your physical condition. The last time I was in Red Rock Canyon, I drank 2 liters of water in 2 hours and I still felt dehydrated. Its a great hike to work off all the free beer and all you can eat buffets. The best time to plan your trip is Spring or Fall when temperatures are usually in the 80s.

To reach Red Rock Canyon from the Las Vegas Trip, Take the Las Vegas Beltway (215) North towards Summerlin. Exit onto Charleston Blvd (159) and follow route 159 South for about 6 miles until you see the right hand turnoff for Red Rock Canyon Road (Scenic Loop Drive). Follow the signs to the parking area. Parking is 5$. (one hand of blackjack). I usually hike inside the loop, but there are plenty of slot canyons, creeks and geologic oddities to explore in the immediate area around the loop.