How Big Is Red Rock Canyon?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area [RRCNCA] is located just a few miles west of Las Vegas and encompasses

195,819 acres

within the Mojave Desert. Red Rock is an area of world wide geologic interest and beauty.

How long is Red Rock Canyon?

The

thirteen mile

loop has multiple opportunities to stop and take in the vista.

How tall is Red Rock Canyon Las Vegas?

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Location Clark County, Nevada, US Nearest city

Las Vegas, Nevada

Why is Red Rock Canyon famous?

Red Rock Canyon is an area of worldwide geologic interest. Many experienced and amateur geologists alike who visit Red Rock are

amazed by the rock formations, natural beauty, and the vivid colors of the rocks

.

Can you drive through Red Rock Canyon?


The 13 mile Scenic Drive through Red Rock Canyon

allows visitors to explore the highs and lows of the canyon from their vehicle or bicycle, with many scenic stops and and trailheads along the way. Entrance fees support visitor facilities and upkeep for this world-renowned scenic drive.

Can you walk red rocks?


You can visit Red Rocks anytime and walk around the venue and the amphitheater and take a self-guided tour

. Guided, backstage tours only take place in the off-season.

How long does it take to drive around Red Rock?

Mileage 12 miles (20 km) Duration

30 minutes
Seasons If Winter is not mentioned, the road may be closed during the winter. All Seasons Roadways Red Rock Canyon Road Passes Please read the drive description for more information. America the Beautiful Annual National Parks Pass

Why is Red Rock Canyon closed?

Attention:

Due to the lapse in federal appropriations

, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is unable to fully staff the land and facilities under its management. is not feasible to close or otherwise prohibit all access to BLM land and facilities.

Does it snow in Red Rock Canyon?

Don’t be surprised, even in the desert

the mountains of Red Rock Canyon might blanketed with snow after a storm

.

Which is Better Red Rock or Valley of Fire?

If you are visiting both parks, we recommend going to see

Red Rock Canyon in Las Vegas first to avoid comparing it so heavily with Valley of Fire State Park

. Just know that the two parks are different, but both are fun places to explore and hike.

Was Red Rock Canyon underwater?

The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area has a unique geological history. Throughout the vast majority of recent geologic history (the last 600 million years),

Red Rock was underwater

, a part of a massive inland sea.

Can dogs go to Red Rocks?

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

Plenty of hiking and biking trails, wonderful places for a picnic lunch, and a great visitor center make Red Rocks a great place for a day with your pet.

Leashed pets are allowed on the hiking trails

, but be sure to bring plenty of water for you and your pooch.

Are there snakes in Red Rock Canyon?


Rattlesnakes in Red Rock Canyon blend in very well with the environment under shrubs, within rock cracks, and along sandy soils

. These snakes are venomous and can deliver a painful bite; if you do spot one, keep yourself at least 10 feet away and do not attempt to touch or provoke the snake.

Is it worth visiting Red Rock Canyon?

Is Red Rock Canyon Worth Visiting?

The answer is a resounding yes

! Our day spent at Red Rock Canyon was our sons’ favorite day trip from Vegas. There are hiking trails that are full of fun opportunities to clamor over rocks, tuck yourself into gaping holes that have formed in the rock face, or view petroglyphs.

How old is the Red Rock Canyon?

The geologic story of Red Rock Canyon began

about 300 million years ago

when sand and gravel washed down from the ancestral Rocky Mountains to form alluvial deposits which became the Fountain sandstone on the edge of the present location of Manitou Springs.

Can you swim in Red Rock Canyon?


A great place to swim

, the water is usually warm and there are tons of beaches. This natural spring is located about one mile down the Oak Creek Trail at Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area (and is typically only full due to rainfall or melting snow).

Is Red Rock Canyon Open Covid?

The 13-mile Scenic Drive at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is

open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Visitor Center remains closed, however many items can be purchased online at shopredrock.org!

Is Red Rock Canyon Safe?


Steep slopes and cliff edges are dangerous

. Do not roll or throw rocks and other items from high places; other visitors may be below you. Watch for snakes on the rocks. Temperatures can exceed 110 °F (41 °C) in Red Rock Canyon.

Can you smoke at Red Rocks?

Red Rocks states that

they are smoke free

. But there is absolutely no enforcement done. It is now illegal to smoke cigarettes in public, and you never see cigarette smokers at Red Rocks. But you can ALWAYS find pot smokers.

Does Red Rocks sell alcohol?


Many types of alcohol are available at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

, including vodka (Grey Goose), whiskey (Jameson), tequila (Patron), gin, and rum, as well as champagnes of various types.

How do I get to Red Rocks without a car?

  1. Drive yourself. This is the quickest and of course easiest way to make it safely to a shindig at The Rocks. …
  2. Get a friend to drive you. …
  3. Bike. …
  4. Walk. …
  5. (Fancier) shuttle. …
  6. Uber/Lyft. …
  7. Taxi. …
  8. Drive home impaired.

Is Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive worth it?

If you’re still wondering if visiting Red Rock Canyon Conservation area is worth it, then

the answer is a resounding yes

! I think it’s one of the best parks not only in Nevada, but in the United States. And I’ve visited a lot of national parks and state parks since I love to go hiking.

How far is Red Rock from the Strip?

Red Rock Canyon is located about

25 miles

west of the Las Vegas Strip. From the Strip and Downtown Las Vegas, the Conservation Area can be approached from Charleston Boulevard, which will turn into SR 159. Or from the south, take Blue Diamond Rd/SR 160 west to the Junction with Route 159.

Is Red Rock free?


Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area participates in entrance fee-free days

. On these significant days of celebration or commemoration, all entrance fees are waived. For all other days, please make a reservation under the Scenic Drive Vehicle Entry or other applicable entry option.

Can you hike Red Rock Canyon at night?

We will look for nocturnal and crepuscular wildlife along the way and discuss animal & plant adaptations for living in the dark. Together we’ll enjoy the sunset, stars, and moon away from city lights in one of Nevada’s premier outdoor locations.

Late Night Trail is an easy to moderate hike of 3.5 miles

.

What do you wear to Red Rock Canyon?

Wear

good hiking shoes or athletic shoes, long pants, and long sleeves

to protect you from prickly vegetation and sun exposure. Bring with you a first-aid kit, snacks, and an extra layer. * Hike in pairs. Use the buddy system when hiking.

Where is Red Rock now?

Visitor Information

The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area [RRCNCA] is located

just a few miles west of Las Vegas

and encompasses 195,819 acres within the Mojave Desert. Red Rock is an area of worldwide geologic interest and beauty.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.