We Love Our National Parks, but This Nevada Conservation Area and Park Is Just as Stunningly Scenic

Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area in Nevada is less than 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of The Strip in Las Vegas. But visiting this peaceful natural oasis feels like spending time out in nature, a whole world away from the chaos of the city. There are many hiking trails, a 13-mile scenic drive, rock climbing routes, and an educational visitor center showcasing knowledge about the local wildlife. Here’s how to explore this outdoor playground (which rivals most national parks in scenic beauty and adventure opportunities). 

Best Hikes in Red Rocks Canyon Conservation Area

For those seeking an adventure on foot, remember to bring enough water and sunscreen, and avoid hiking during the middle of the day when the weather is hottest and sunniest. The Red Rocks Canyon Conservation Area's website has 26 official, numbered hikes and trails that correspond to the numbers on this downloadable map, which will help keep you safe on the pathways. Many pathways feature formations ranging from canyons and peaks, ledges, chimneys, chutes, and gullies to explore across the park. 

My favorite hike in the park is called The Calico Tanks Trail. This short but sweet, and slightly steep, 2.4-mile trail climbs roughly 400 feet in elevation gain. It is a scenic route, snaking through gorgeous, towering red rock formations and sandy valleys. When you reach the end of the trail, you’ll ascend a set of sandstone steps leading you to the peak. From your perch up top, you can see the Las Vegas Strip in the distance and the surrounding desert scenery. 

Experience a Scenic Drive

If you’re seeking a stint on wheels, rather than a trek on foot, the 13-mile, one-way scenic drive is a gorgeous way to admire this park’s natural sights. You can explore via car or ride a bicycle along this route, which boasts a variety of scenic viewpoints and trailhead stops along the way. Be aware, however, that you must make a reservation for a specific timed entry window online if you visit from May 31 to October 1. This system, along with the park’s daily entry pass reservation system, limits the number of people in the area at one time and reduces crowding while protecting the area’s natural resources. 

Explore the Visitor Center

Those seeking an activity geared more toward the "indoors" can visit the visitor center and the Elements Gift Shop. Since the park encompasses 195,819 acres within the Mojave Desert, there’s much to learn about, including the types of geological rock formations and the canyon’s rich history. The visitor center is an informational hub with indoor and outdoor exhibits. Dive into details about the local plant specimens that live in the canyon, or the live Desert Tortoise habitats. Here, experts can also offer hiking trail recommendations or provide more insight into their park programs. 

Other Recreational Opportunities at This Nevada Destination

Those into rock climbing can explore the various routes suitable for all adventurers. The boulders and steep rock faces of Red Rocks Canyon Conservation Area draw thrill-seekers from across the U.S. and beyond. In addition to the 13-mile scenic roadway, bikes can access the paved spur road and designated mountain bike trails in the park (but not on designated hiking-only trails). Visit the BLM website for more information on where to explore the canyon on two wheels, and beware of falling rocks, debris, and loose gravel on the pathways. 

For those who want to extend their stay inside the park, there’s one developed campground in the park, called the Red Rock Canyon Campground. It’s located two miles east of the visitor center and one mile south on Moenkopi Road from the junction with W. Charleston Blvd. There are no electrical, water, or sewer hook-ups and no showers, but there are vault toilet restroom facilities and water faucets for drinking water located throughout the grounds.

So, the question is ... are you ready to explore the Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area in Nevada? This is a spot worthy of any outdoor lover's bucket list. And if you are searching for even more travel inspiration, don't miss this epic slot canyon hike at Valley of Fire State Park. This can also be a gorgeous spot to watch the sunrise, if you're up for an early morning adventure.