A gorgeous loop through the Calico Hills section of Red Rock Canyon, showcasing the most vivid red and cream sandstone formations in the park. The trail winds between towering sandstone fins and through shallow sandy washes. Petroglyphs are visible at certain points and the area is alive with desert wildlife including bighorn sheep.
The Calico Hills Loop winds through one of the most visually striking sections of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, located roughly 30 miles west of Las Vegas, Nevada. The 2.5-mile route navigates between towering sandstone formations in vivid shades of red, orange, and cream, colors produced by iron oxide deposited in ancient desert sand dunes more than 180 million years ago. Trailhead access is from the Calico Hills parking areas along the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop Drive, a one-way 13-mile road that requires a timed entry reservation between May and October, available at recreation.gov. No public transit serves the trailhead; a personal vehicle or rideshare is necessary. The vehicle entry fee is $15 per vehicle, or covered by an America the Beautiful pass. The route covers 2.5 miles with a modest 200-meter elevation gain, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Trail surfaces include natural sandstone slabs, sandy wash sections, and short scrambles over low boulders. Shade is limited; the open desert terrain receives full sun throughout most of the day. Hikers traverse shallow sandy washes between massive sandstone fins before looping back along the base of the main Calico Hills escarpment. Key landmarks include the prominent sandstone domes visible from the loop road, ancient Ancestral Puebloan petroglyphs etched into dark desert varnish on rock faces, and seasonally active washes that produce brief wildflower blooms after winter rains. Desert bighorn sheep are frequently sighted along the cliffs, particularly in early morning and late afternoon. Ravens, chuckwallas, and various lizard species are year-round inhabitants of the canyon. Water is not available on the trail; hikers should carry at least one liter per person. The area is a popular photography destination, especially in the golden hour before sunset when the sandstone glows at its most vivid. Spring rains between February and April can trigger exceptional wildflower displays in the washes below the cliffs, with desert marigold and phacelia adding color to the red stone backdrop. The loop can be hiked in either direction; a counterclockwise route approaches the main escarpment first and is most commonly used.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
- Best season
- October to April (cooler desert conditions)
Highlights
- Vivid red sandstone formations
- Desert petroglyphs
- Bighorn sheep sightings
- Excellent photography
Tips for visiting
- Carry a minimum of 1 liter of water per person; no water sources exist on the trail
- Book a timed entry permit online before May through October visits; the scenic loop fills early on weekends
- Start at sunrise or late afternoon to see the sandstone at its most colorful and avoid midday heat
- Wear sun protection year-round; the trail has almost no shade for its full 2.5-mile length
- Watch cliff faces for bighorn sheep, most active in early morning hours
- An America the Beautiful annual pass covers the vehicle entry fee
When to visit
October through April is optimal, avoiding peak summer heat that regularly exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Early morning starts are recommended year-round to catch the best light and cooler temperatures.
Accessibility
The Calico Hills Loop traverses natural sandstone and sandy wash terrain with uneven surfaces and short scrambles; it is not accessible to wheelchair users or strollers. No paved accessible alternatives exist within the loop itself, though the Calico Hills overlook parking areas allow viewing of the formations from vehicles.
Frequently asked questions
Is a permit required to hike the Calico Hills Loop?
A timed entry reservation is required to drive the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop between May and October, bookable at recreation.gov. The vehicle entry fee ($15) applies year-round, or is covered by an America the Beautiful pass. No separate hiking permit is needed.
How difficult is the Calico Hills Loop for children?
The trail is rated easy with 200 meters of elevation gain over 2.5 miles, making it suitable for children aged 6 and older who are comfortable on uneven surfaces. Young children require close supervision near sandstone edges and in sandy wash sections.
Are there restroom facilities at the trailhead?
Pit toilets are available at the Calico Hills parking areas along the scenic loop road. There are no flush restrooms or running water at the trailhead itself.
Can hikers bring dogs on the Calico Hills Loop?
Dogs are permitted on leashes no longer than 6 feet at all times. Pet owners should bring extra water for their animals and be aware that hot sandstone surfaces can burn paw pads in summer months.
What wildlife might be encountered on the trail?
Desert bighorn sheep are commonly spotted on the cliffs, particularly in early morning. Ravens, chuckwallas, and various lizard species are year-round residents. Rattlesnakes are present in warmer months; watch where hands and feet are placed near rock edges.