Desert reserve 17 miles west of the Strip with red-and-cream Aztec sandstone cliffs, a 13-mile one-way scenic drive, petroglyphs and more than 25 hiking trails.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a desert reserve at 1000 Scenic Loop Dr, about 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip in Nevada. Its signature feature is a band of red and cream Aztec sandstone cliffs rising above the Mojave Desert floor, visible along a 13-mile one-way Scenic Drive that has numerous pullouts and trailheads. The area offers more than 25 hiking trails, ranging from short walks such as Calico Tanks and the Petroglyph Wall to longer routes through canyons like Pine Creek and Ice Box. Rock climbing, cycling and wildlife watching are also popular, and visitors often see wild burros, lizards and desert birds. The Visitor Center on the Scenic Loop road has exhibits on geology, plants and animals, plus maps and ranger advice. A typical visit lasts a half day, though a quick drive of the loop takes about an hour and hikers can spend a full day. Photographers favour the Calico Hills pullouts in morning or late afternoon light, when the red tones are strongest, and the Willow Springs area for petroglyphs. Entry costs $20 per car, $10 for motorcycles and $5 for cyclists or pedestrians, and America the Beautiful passes are accepted. From October 1 to May 31, a timed-entry reservation is required for the 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM window through Recreation.gov, so visitors arriving before 8:00 AM can avoid it. Crowds peak on weekend mornings in spring and fall, and summer afternoons are extremely hot. The Scenic Drive hours change by season. A car or rideshare is necessary because there is no public transit.
| Admission | $20 per car, $10 motorcycle, $5 cyclist or pedestrian; America the Beautiful pass accepted; timed-entry reservation required Oct 1-May 31 for 8:00 AM-5:00 PM entry via Recreation.gov |
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| Hours | Scenic Drive opens 6:00 AM; closes 5:00 PM (Nov-Feb), 7:00 PM (Mar and Oct), 8:00 PM (Apr-Sep); Visitor Center daily 8:00 AM-4:30 PM |
| Typical visit | Half day |
| Best time | Early morning (before 8 AM avoids the reservation window) or late afternoon; Oct-Apr for cooler hiking |
| Getting there | Car or rideshare only (no public transit); take W Charleston Blvd (NV-159) west, about 25-30 minutes from the Strip |
| Address | 1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161 |
Location
1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161
36.1356, -115.4278 View on map
Highlights
- 13-mile Scenic Drive past red and cream sandstone cliffs
- More than 25 hiking trails including Calico Tanks
- Petroglyphs and desert wildlife
- Visitor Center exhibits on geology and ecology
Tips for visiting
- Reserve a timed-entry slot on Recreation.gov for the October to May window, or arrive before 8:00 AM
- Bring at least a liter of water per person; summer temperatures are extreme
- Scenic Drive closing time varies by season, so check before entering
- America the Beautiful pass holders get entry at no extra cost
- Morning light gives the strongest colors on the Calico Hills
- There is no public transit, so plan for a car or rideshare
When to visit
Early morning or late afternoon, and October to April for cooler hiking. Summer afternoons are extremely hot.
Accessibility
The Scenic Drive and Visitor Center are accessible by car, and some pullouts have paved viewing areas. Most trails are uneven natural surfaces and are not wheelchair accessible.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Red Rock Canyon take?
A drive of the Scenic Loop takes about an hour, but most visitors spend a half day to include a hike or the Visitor Center.
Do visitors need a reservation?
From October 1 to May 31, a timed-entry reservation is required for entry between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Arriving before 8:00 AM avoids it.
Is Red Rock Canyon worth it for kids?
Short trails and the Scenic Drive suit families, though summer heat and limited shade require care.
Is photography allowed?
Yes. Personal photography is permitted throughout the conservation area.