Red Spring Boardwalk Red Rock Canyon
An accessible boardwalk in Calico Basin, offering a serene desert oasis with a year-round spring and stunning red rock views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the midday heat
Red Spring Boardwalk Red Rock Canyon
Best Time
Escape the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An accessible boardwalk in Calico Basin, offering a serene desert oasis with a year-round spring and stunning red rock views.
"A hidden jewel right at the base of the red rock mountains with a nice boardwalk all the way to the top."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Desert conditions are serious. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
♿ Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly
The boardwalk is smooth and accessible, perfect for families with young children or those needing mobility assistance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Red Spring Boardwalk
Calico Basin
A smooth, accessible boardwalk winding through a unique desert oasis with a year-round spring.
Salt Grass and Wildlife
Along the boardwalk
Observe the rare salt grass and water-dependent plants that thrive around the spring, attracting local wildlife.
Petroglyphs
Near the boardwalk
Discover ancient rock art etched into the canyon walls, offering a glimpse into the area's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Accessibility and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Desert conditions are serious. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
♿ Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly
The boardwalk is smooth and accessible, perfect for families with young children or those needing mobility assistance.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for breathtaking light and incredible photo opportunities.
🚗 Zero Entrance Fee
Enjoy this beautiful spot without any parking or admission fees.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Desert conditions are serious. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
♿ Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly
The boardwalk is smooth and accessible, perfect for families with young children or those needing mobility assistance.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for breathtaking light and incredible photo opportunities.
🚗 Zero Entrance Fee
Enjoy this beautiful spot without any parking or admission fees.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Stroll
Well-behaved pets are welcome on the boardwalk, making it a great outing for furry friends too.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Red Spring Boardwalk's accessibility and natural beauty, calling it a 'hidden jewel' perfect for all ages. Many appreciate the free access and amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. Some reviewers noted the need for railing repairs in certain sections.
"Red Spring Boardwalk trail very easy and accessible for all ages and handicap friendly. Will recommend it early morning or in the afternoon on summer time, in the winter will be better in the middle of the day, always bring water if you are planning to stay longer. People also walk their pet here very easy. Also has bench to enjoy the view."
William Hernandez
"Beautiful, but they need to repair the railing. My mom almost fell and did cut her hand when leaning over to see the petroglyphs. There were several places that need repair, mainly where people would stop to look."
Dawes
"If you’re a hiker or even adventure, this is Really a hidden Jewel. Right at the base of the red rock mountains has a nice boardwalk all the way to the top and then loops around the springs. There are plenty of dirt hiking trails I would estimate from moderate to difficult. Large picnic area that accommodates groups with a permit. I’d say it’s well worth the visit."
Steven Rank
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Red Spring Boardwalk is located in Calico Basin, just outside the main Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Drive west from Las Vegas on Charleston Boulevard, then turn onto Calico Basin Road. Follow it to the parking lot. It's about a 30-40 minute drive. +1
Yes, there is ample parking available at the trailhead in Calico Basin. It's free of charge. 
While it's possible to be dropped off, having a car is highly recommended for flexibility and to ensure you can get back, as cell reception can be unreliable in the area.
No, the Red Spring Boardwalk is located in Calico Basin, which is outside the main fee area of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Access and parking are free.
From Las Vegas, take Charleston Blvd West. Turn right onto Calico Basin Road. Continue on Calico Basin Road until you reach the parking area for the Red Spring Boardwalk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee or parking fee for the Red Spring Boardwalk. It's a free public access area.
The boardwalk is generally accessible during daylight hours. As it's an outdoor natural area, there are no official 'closing' times, but it's best to visit during safe daylight hours.
Yes, there is a large picnic area that can accommodate groups, and permits may be required for larger gatherings.
Yes, restrooms are available at the Red Spring Boardwalk area.
No reservations are needed to visit the Red Spring Boardwalk. It's a first-come, first-served area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Yes, the boardwalk itself is very easy and flat, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels.
Absolutely! The boardwalk is designed to be smooth and wide, making it very accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
You'll see unique desert flora, including salt grass, and a year-round spring that supports plant and wildlife. The surrounding red rock formations are stunning.
Yes, the Red Spring Boardwalk is a gateway to other dirt hiking trails in Calico Basin, ranging from moderate to difficult.
Yes, there are petroglyphs located a short distance from the boardwalk, offering a glimpse into ancient history.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photos. Early mornings can also be beautiful with fewer crowds.
The boardwalk and surrounding red rock scenery make it a very popular and picturesque location for elopements and wedding photos.
During certain times, especially after rain or in the early morning, the spring can create beautiful reflections.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert landscapes and red rock formations. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Drone usage is typically restricted within Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and surrounding public lands. Check current regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the harshest sun. While the boardwalk is the main draw, the surrounding Calico Basin has other trails that might be suitable for older, more adventurous kids. The lack of an entrance fee is also a huge plus for family budgets.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Bring your own water and snacks to keep costs down, and enjoy the picnic facilities. It’s a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the area on a shoestring budget, providing a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
📸 Photographers & Elopers
+1While the boardwalk offers easy access, the surrounding areas provide more rugged, natural settings for diverse shots. The accessibility means photographers can easily transport gear, and the lack of a fee is a bonus for clients. Be aware of potential restrictions on drone usage and always check current regulations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Calico Basin
Beyond the boardwalk, Calico Basin offers a network of unpaved hiking trails that cater to more adventurous visitors. These trails can range from moderate to difficult, leading to hidden canyons and stunning viewpoints. It's a fantastic area for those who want to experience the grandeur of Red Rock Canyon without the crowds or the entrance fee associated with the main scenic drive. Many visitors use Calico Basin as a starting point for longer hikes or as a more relaxed alternative for a scenic stroll.
Key attractions in Calico Basin include the Red Spring Boardwalk, the petroglyph sites, and various trailheads. The year-round spring at Red Spring is a vital water source for local wildlife and supports a unique ecosystem of water-dependent plants, making it a fascinating spot for nature observation. The area is also a popular location for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the red rocks glow with an intense, warm light.
+1Accessibility and Family Fun
Families will find the Red Spring Boardwalk to be a perfect destination for a relaxed outdoor adventure. The short, easy path means little legs won't get too tired, and the engaging environment with unique plants and the spring itself can captivate young minds. The nearby picnic area, complete with restrooms, makes it easy to spend a few hours here. It’s a great way to introduce children to the desert landscape in a safe and accessible manner, often cited as a favorite local spot for a family outing.
Beyond the boardwalk, the surrounding Calico Basin offers more challenging trails for older children or more adventurous families. However, the boardwalk itself provides a complete and satisfying experience for those seeking a gentle introduction to the area's natural wonders. The lack of an entrance fee also makes it an attractive option for families looking for budget-friendly activities.
Social
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