It’s not very often you come across a hidden pool and waterfall in the middle of the Nevada desert. It just goes to show that there is all sorts of beauty just waiting to be uncovered out there—you just have to go and find it. The trek to this idyllic destination is relatively short but it can be tricky to follow. If you persevere, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the most pristine little oasis! This place is bound to become your new favorite spot to relax and soak up the wonderful beauty that Nevada’s landscapes have to offer, so keep reading to see how you can see this place for yourself.
There's a little slice of paradise hiding out in the Nevada desert and you'll want to make it your mission to find it. All you have to do is hop on the First Creek Canyon Trail inside Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
The trail is approximately 2.2-miles round trip. It's best done early in the day since the first mile or so leads you right through the unshaded valley of the canyon. It can be a toasty hike so be sure to plan accordingly and pack plenty of water.
Follow the trail westward past stunning landscapes of Joshua trees, Mojave yucca, blackbrush and other types of desert foliage. The portion of the trail that branches off to the pool and waterfall can be tricky to find, but keep a lookout for two large pine trees on the right side of the trail. It's here you'll take a sharp right and follow the trail down to the hidden waterfall.
The pool itself is absolutely beautiful and one of the last things you'd expect to see hiding out in the desert. Although the pool's depth is known to vary according to the season's rainfall and snowpack, it can be full well into late spring as the 18-foot waterfall steadily flows into it.
It can be tempting to dip your toes into the pool on a hot day, but doing so is not advised. It's important that the pool remains in its exact condition since it's considered a critical habitat for the animal species that live here and use it for survival. Please enjoy its beauty from afar!
You could easily spend hours at the bottom of the falls just listening to the tranquil sounds of flowing water and nearby songbirds. It's one of the most peaceful places in the canyon and most visitors consider it well-worth the trek across the desert.
The trail's short length and relative ease makes it the perfect outing for those looking to add a little bit of adventure into their day. It's a place best experienced in-person so make plans to see it for yourself soon!
