With all the activities there are to do on the Las Vegas Strip, you may want some peace and quiet. Located just 35 minutes from the center of the Las Vegas Strip is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
There are 3 main areas to explore. Red Rock Overlook, Red Spring, and Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop.
3 Top Areas to Visit in Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon Overlook
Located off NV-159 on the north side of the road. The entrance to Red Rock Overlook is free. Plenty of free parking.
I absolutely love Red Rock Overlook. It has the most stunning views of Red Rock Canyon. It is a daily favorite of locals because of the beautiful sunsets. There are picnic benches and a short 0.5-mile trail for hiking. There is also an area where couples have their wedding and engagement photos. Don’t forget your camera.
As the sun sets over Red Rock Canyon, this view is different every day at the Red Rock Overlook. You don’t have to be a photographer to capture this beauty.
2. Red Spring Boardwalk
Also off NV-159. Turn right onto Calico Basin Road. Plenty of free parking.
Red Spring Picnic Area has shade pavilions, barbecue grills, and a dozen picnic tables. After a nice lunch go for a short 0.55-mile walk on the Red Spring Boardwalk. Bring your cameras, there are plenty of photo opportunities. This is also a local favorite for engagement and wedding photos.
Follow the Red Spring Boardwalk that winds thru shaded areas. Plenty of benches to sit and take it all in. There are stops along the way with info panels that highlight interesting facts about birds, plants, and the area’s geology
3. Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop
Then entrance to the scenic loop is off NV-159. There is an admission fee but you can take your time on the loop.
Red Rock Canyon features a one-way 13-mile scenic drive. There are several stops along the drive where you can park and take in the view. Most of these stops have trailheads so you can start your hike from there. Be sure to get a trail map when you enter the park.
Start off your drive any time of the day. First thing in the morning as the sun is coming up will give you spectacular colors.
Early in the morning there are plenty of opportunities to make friends with the locals.
Stop for a picnic at any of the parking areas. Always places to sit and enjoy the scenery.
Las Vegas is known for its world-class nightlife, casinos, and entertainment. From watching the Bellagio water show to catching a Las Vegas Raiders game at Allegiant Stadium, there is no shortage of fun things to do. However, if you find yourself looking for something new and exciting and want to venture off the beaten path, we’ve got you covered. Redfin reached out to locals, including us, to share our favorite hidden gems in Las Vegas. So whether you’re already living in Las Vegas, considering renting an apartment in Paradise, NV, or are just a tourist for the week, venture away from the strip and try these exciting places. As the saying goes, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” so you’ll want to keep these places a secret. Check out Hidden Gems in Las Vegas: Sin City’s Best Kept Secrets.
