There are an endless amount of ways to get out there and explore with your family in Nevada. You definitely don’t have to confine yourself to the nearest local park and playground! Although Southern Nevada’s Red Rock Canyon has plenty of strenuous trails, there’s also a myriad of easier hikes that are great for beginners or families. The hike to Calico Tanks is one of them and it should definitely be on your radar for the fact that it combines unique natural beauty, geology, and some fascinating history!
Enjoy a little bit of everything that Red Rock Canyon in Nevada has to offer on a single hike with the Calico Tanks Trail. Combining interesting geology, history, and endless natural beauty, there's something on this hike for everyone!
The Calico Tanks Trail is understandably one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock Canyon. Venturing into a vibrant canyon rich with red, yellow, and orange sandstone, every step of this hike is surrounded by stunning beauty.
The 2.5-mile trail starts at the Sandstone Quarry Trailhead. The trail itself starts off nice and wide, making it easy to spot. After passing by an abandoned quarry, the trail splits off directly to Calico Tanks.
It isn't long before the trail becomes more rugged and the rock formations become more numerous. Heads up, some sections of the trail require scrambling, although they aren't considered very difficult. Just be sure to come prepared with appropriate footwear!
After making your way over several boulders and up various staircases, you'll finally reach the Calico Tank. It's a true oasis in the middle of the desert! Depending on the height of the water in the tank, you may be able to further explore the surrounding sandstone formations.
This little water pocket in Red Rock Canyon is a true hidden gem. If you're lucky, you could spot some bighorn sheep sipping out of it, as the pools of water are well-loved among wildlife.
The Calico Tanks Trail provides just enough adventure when you feel like exploring into the depths of Red Rock Canyon, while still remaining a relatively straightforward hike. Check out this desert oasis on your next visit and see it for yourself!
Have you taken on the trail to Calico Tanks? Consider this adventure a must when you visit Red Rock Canyon. Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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