Red Rock Canyon Hiking Adventure from Las Vegas — Calico Tanks, Ice Box & Scenic Loop
A short drive from the Strip and suddenly the city’s neon is behind you—Red Rock Canyon’s red fins, shady canyons and slickrock offer an immediate and physical desert experience. This guided hiking adventure mixes short scrambles, panoramic overlooks and cool slot canyons to suit a range of fitness levels.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start before sunrise
Temperatures soar quickly—begin hikes early to avoid the heat and secure parking at popular trailheads like Calico Basin.
Hydrate deliberately
Carry at least 2–3 liters of water and sip regularly; bottled water is provided but bring extras for longer routes.
Footwear matters
Choose trail shoes with grippy soles—expect slickrock, loose scree and short exposed scrambles.
Respect closures and wildlife
Stay on established trails to protect cryptobiotic soil and give wildlife space—desert ecosystems recover slowly.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning Calico Tanks overlooks the Las Vegas Valley with fewer crowds
- •The shaded slot of Ice Box Canyon cools dramatically and often has seasonal damp pockets to explore
Wildlife
- •Desert spiny lizard
- •Red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Stay on trails to prevent damage to cryptobiotic soil and rare desert plants; guided groups help minimize impact through Leave No Trace practices.
The area preserves rock records from ancient deserts and seas; Southern Paiute peoples historically hunted and traveled these canyons long before twentieth-century settlement altered access.
Photographer's Notes
- • Calico Tanks overlook
- • Scenic Loop pullouts with layered ridgelines
- • Entrance to Ice Box Canyon
What to Bring
2–3L Hydration system or water bottlesEssential
Keeps you hydrated on exposed trails where water sources don’t exist.
Sturdy trail shoes with good tractionEssential
Provides grip on slickrock and stability on loose scree.
Wide-brim hat & sunscreenEssential
Protects from intense desert sun and prevents heat-related issues.
Light insulating layer or wind shell
Mornings can be cool, and winds on ridgelines make layers useful.
Common Questions
How long is the guided hike?
Tours run about 3–5 hours depending on trail choices; shorter options like Calico Tanks are around 2–3 hours.
Is the hike suitable for kids?
Older, active children comfortable with uneven terrain can join; check with the operator about minimum ages.
Are permits or park fees required?
Yes—there is an entry fee for Red Rock NCA for private vehicles; guided tours typically include park admission details during booking.
What level of fitness is needed?
A moderate fitness level is recommended: you should be able to handle steady climbs and short scrambles up to several hundred feet of elevation.
Are there restroom facilities?
The Visitor Center and some trailhead areas have restrooms; facilities are limited once you’re on remote trails.
Can I bring my dog?
Pets are restricted on many trails in Red Rock; check park rules and tour policies before bringing animals.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–5 hours
Location
Las Vegas, Nevada
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate — comfortable with sustained uphill sections and uneven terrain; good balance and ankle stability recommended
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