10 Things To See On Nevada's Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive
What Is the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive Most Famous For?
Prepare to be awe-inspired as you lay your eyes on the best things to see on the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive in Nevada. This famous 21-km loop winds through some of the world’s most impressive landscapes, winding through a picturesque roadway that’s just a short distance from downtown Las Vegas. You’ll encounter striking red sandstone formations, towering cliffs and unique Mojave Desert plants and wildlife. Popular trails provide incredible views and chances to explore the area’s natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking and rock climbing.
If you prefer a more leisurely visit, you’ll find informative exhibits to admire, as well as picnic areas for rest and refreshment. Immortalize the moment with some vibrant pictures as you experience the wonders of your scenic drive through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area in Las Vegas, Nevada.
1. Visitor Center
A practical starting point
Ideal para: História, Casais, Famílias
The Visitor Center at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a great place to begin your exploration of this beautiful spot. Located near the start of the scenic loop, the centre offers great views and friendly staff. You’ll find informative exhibits on the canyon’s geology, wildlife and cultural history. Interactive displays and outdoor exhibits provide insights into the unique desert environment, while the knowledgeable rangers can answer questions and help you plan your day’s activities.
The Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center features a gift shop, restrooms and shaded picnic areas. There’s also a giant picture window inside the centre that frames the spectacular views. Stop by to gather information and get ready for your Red Rock Canyon adventure.
Localização: 1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161, USA
Abre: Daily from 8 am to 4.30 pm
Telefone: +1 702-515-5350
Visitor Center
2. Petroglyphs and pictographs drawing
Ancient drawings and rock art
Ideal para: História, Foto
The Petroglyph Wall at Red Rock Canyon is an impressive collection of petroglyphs and pictograph drawings. They include hand-drawn cave paintings and rock engravings, offering a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the canyon. This Indigenous rock art is thought to be at least 800 years old.
You’ll find the Petroglyph Wall next to a juniper tree at the base of a tall cliff, near the Willow Spring Picnic Area, about 13 km from the entrance to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Follow the signposts until you reach the ancient artwork.
Petroglyphs and pictographs drawing
3. Red Rock Wash Overlook
Peaceful stop with beautiful views
Ideal para: Aventura, Foto, Famílias
The Red Rock Wash Overlook is located about 14 km along the Red Rock Canyon scenic loop, and it provides breathtaking views across the valley. It can be easy to miss this hidden viewpoint on your drive, so be sure to slow down and look to your left just after the Ice Box Canyon turnoff.
From your vantage point, you can admire Rainbow Mountain and the natural beauty of the wilderness. There’s an air of tranquillity and peace at this lesser-known spot. Be aware that there are no facilities at the overlook and little to no shade. Drive a little further to the Pine Creek trailhead if you need some shelter from the sun.
Red Rock Wash Overlook
4. Ice Box Canyon Trail and Waterfall
Energetic and rewarding hike
Ideal para: Aventura, Foto
The beauty of Ice Box Canyon Waterfall is particularly rewarding when you hike the Ice Box Canyon trail that winds its way towards it. The waterfall is seasonal and mostly absent in summer unless there has been heavy rainfall, but even if you don’t get to see the waterfall, the hike itself is well worth the spectacular views, especially at the end.
The Ice Box Canyon trail begins as a steady uphill hike. Be aware that about 1 km in you’ll be faced with boulders to climb which is generally recommended for experienced climbers. But whether you choose to turn back at this point or not, the scenery you’ll see along any part of the hike is unforgettable. Make sure you pack lots of water, don sturdy footwear and take frequent rests.
Ice Box Canyon Trail and Waterfall
5. Switchback Spring
A stunning oasis
Ideal para: Aventura, Foto, Econômico
Switchback Spring is a hidden gem in Wilson Ridge, close to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. You should get a rare glimpse of water even in the most arid months in the scenic Mojave Desert landscape. You can access the area via a moderate hiking trail off Rocky Gap Road.
The spring is surrounded by rugged cliffs, and it provides a peaceful retreat as well as beautiful views of the surrounding red rock formations. Admire the fantastic views of the northern stretch of the mountains and beyond to the Las Vegas Valley.
Switchback Spring
6. Wildlife
Desert flora and fauna in the canyon
Ideal para: Foto, Famílias
The wildlife in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is diverse and fascinating. The sandstone canyons provide a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species that thrive in desert conditions.
On your scenic drive or invigorating hike, you might catch glimpses of bighorn sheep grazing on the rocky cliffs, desert tortoises making their way slowly across the trails, jackrabbits darting through the brush or a variety of lizards basking in the warm sunshine. Glance up at the sky to enjoy sightings of eagles, red-tailed hawks and hummingbirds.
Wildlife
7. Calico Basin
Rugged red rock formations
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico, Viagens alternativas
The Calico Basin is a vast, picturesque recreation area of Red Rock Canyon that’s known for its popular hiking trails and stunning views. If you’d like to hike a trail that’s considered easier to tackle, try the 2.5-km round trip on the Calico Basin Trail.
Covering the base of the Calico Hills, you’ll see giant sandstone formations and fascinating wildlife as well as seasonal springs and desert meadows. Take advantage of the easy parking and useful facilities at the Red Spring Picnic Area at the start of the trail.
Calico Basin
8. Bridge Mountain
Popular destination for experienced hikers
Ideal para: Aventura, Foto
Bridge Mountain is a spectacular peak in the Rainbow Mountain Wilderness, between Ice Box and Pine Creek Canyons. It’s one of the highest points in the area, and you can admire it from many spots along the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive. It has a striking, dome-like appearance.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can reach the summit of Bridge Mountain on foot but be warned that the hiking trails are strenuous and involve some rock climbing. Take care on the sandstone as it is easily damaged and avoid climbing during or immediately after wet weather.
Bridge Mountain
9. Desert flowers
Vibrant and colourful blooms
Ideal para: Foto, Famílias, Casais
The Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area is home to a variety of beautiful desert flowers. Even in dry conditions, you’ll see wild rhubarb, alfalfa and agave plants, as well as several species of cacti.
If you’d like to see the huge variety of wildflowers that spring up after the rainy season, try visiting in late March or April. You should see hills carpeted in the bright colours of Goldenfields, Red Rock Tarweed and Tall Evening Primrose. Keep an eye out for the deeper purple hues of Mojave Indigo Bush and Desert Monkeyflower.
Desert flowers
10. Rainbow Mountain
A showcase of geological history
Ideal para: Aventura, Foto
Rainbow Mountain gets its name from the multi-coloured layers of sandstone that create a fantastic visual effect, with hues of red, pink, yellow and white rocks. The mountain is part of the fascinating Keystone Thrust Fault. The trails here are popular with hikers of all abilities, and the near-vertical ascents and descents provide a great challenge for rock climbers.
As you climb, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the desert landscape, even if you don’t make it to the top. Gather up your hiking and climbing gear, embrace the spirit of adventure and embark on the Rainbow Mountain Peak trail for an unforgettable experience.
Rainbow Mountain
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