Saturday, August 31, 2013

Red Rock Canyon - a must see when visiting Las Vegas


Just 17 miles west of the Las Vegas strip is the national conservation area of Red Rock Canyon.  Close enough to spend a few hours - or a few days if you love to hike and rock climb!  This must see location boasts a 13 mile scenic drive loop, 19 trails (from lengths of less than 1 mile - 6 miles), scenic vistas and over 2,000 climbing routes.   The Red Rock Canyon area is one of the top 5 climbing destinations in the United States!

A great place for rock climbing

The park is open year round and does charge daily fees.  There is a $7 daily entrance, annual passes are $30 - or if you have a National Park Service annual pass you can use it here.  Camping is available for additional fees and you need to obtain climbing permits for that activity. 

Stop by the visitor center to meet the locals!

Stop by the visitor center to get information about ranger led programs, learn about the flora & fauna of the area, get tips about what trails or hikes to try and maybe do a little shopping in their gift shop.  Please make sure you are well prepared if you plan to hike in the desert area - bring plenty of water, watch for creatures that may bite, wear plenty of sunscreen and comfortable foot protection.  The trails are rocky and cactus spines are sharp!


Even if you only have a few hours to spend - tour the visitor center and take the scenic drive.  It is quite a change from the neon and pavement of the Las Vegas strip!

www.nv.blm.gov/redrockcanyon

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