Turtlehead Peak

Turtlehead Peak is the most prominent summit along the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, west of Las Vegas, Nevada. The route starts at the Sandstone Quarry Trailhead, at about mile 2.6 of the scenic drive and about 4,300 feet above sea level, and shares its first section with the Calico Tanks Trail. Access is by car or rideshare, as no public transit reaches the area. The scenic drive has an entry fee of about $20 per vehicle, and from October 1 through May 31 a timed-entry reservation is required for arrivals between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.; hikers should confirm the details on recreation.gov. The round trip is about 4.4 to 4.7 miles (7 to 7.5 km) with roughly 2,000 feet (610 m) of climbing to a 6,323-foot summit, which makes the hike hard despite its modest length. After the shared start across desert scrub and slickrock, the route leaves the Calico Tanks wash and climbs steeply on loose, rocky ground. The surface is a mix of sandstone ledges, gravel and scree, and the route is not always obvious, so careful navigation and good footwork are needed. The ascent is exposed, with very little shade, and the wind often increases near the ridge. The reward at the top is a 360-degree view over the red Calico Hills, the Las Vegas Valley and the Strip, and the high peaks of the Spring Mountains. Summit time is usually brief, and the descent over loose rock requires as much care as the climb. Visitors should plan three to five hours for the round trip. There is no reliable water, shelter or refuge hut anywhere on the route, so at least 3 liters of water should be carried. Hiking boots with good grip, trekking poles and a wind layer are useful gear. The route should not be attempted in storms or high winds. The conservation area can be reached for information at 702-515-5350.