Escape Sin City and head to Red Rocks Conservation Area for some hiking.
Red Rocks National Conservation Area is located about 45 minutes from the Las Vegas strip. The area has many different hiking opportunities for most levels of ability. Guided naturalist hiking trips, front country pathways and back country red rock hiking trails are all available at the Red Rock Area. Prepare for the dry, hot and desert conditions by packing the proper gear for your hikes.
Instructions
1. Pack a minimum of one liter per hour per person for any hike in the desert. In addition to the water, pack extra food along with your hiking lunch for the day should you end up out longer than anticipated or emergencies arise. Place a space bag, multi-tool, sun hat, long-sleeve shirt, medical kit, sunglasses, cell phone and a map and compass or GPS unit into the day pack.
2. Drive Blue Diamond Road to find the main entrance to Red Rocks. The road is used by runners, equestrians and bicyclists, so drive with caution as you head to the park area. Park at the Red Rock Association parking area and pay the parking fee. Get current hiking maps at the ranger station and find out about any closures or trail maintenance being done. Ask the rangers about any naturalist guided hikes and sign up if you desire. These trips are free and provide a good introduction to the hiking trails and natural history of the area.
3. Take the 1.2 mile Calico Tanks trail if you wish to find a modest hike. The trail takes you to natural water pools that fill when the desert area receives rainfall. Access the trail head directly from the ranger station.
4. Hike the Lost Canyon Trail if you want a long and full day hike. The trail is 20 miles long. Turn around at any point when ready to call it a day. The trail is accessed at the parking lot of the Red Rocks center. Lost Canyon Trail takes you through the largest canyon in the Red Rocks area.
5. Sign all trail registers with your name, number of hikers in the party, departure and estimated time of arrival back. Rangers use these to determine if lost hikers are in need of rescue.
Tags: Canyon Trail, Conservation Area, hike trail, hiking trails, Lost Canyon