Calico Hills Red Rock Canyon
Vibrant red sandstone formations perfect for hiking, climbing, and photography, offering a stunning desert escape near Las Vegas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Calico Hills Red Rock Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant red sandstone formations perfect for hiking, climbing, and photography, offering a stunning desert escape near Las Vegas.
"Nature's playground with stunning views and endless trails, a must-visit near Vegas!"
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating the sandstone and trails. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated in the desert climate. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Calico Hills Sandstone Formations
Calico Hills
Explore the vibrant red and orange sandstone formations, perfect for scrambling and photography.
Scenic Loop Drive Views
Scenic Loop Drive
Enjoy breathtaking desert vistas and unique rock formations from the 13-mile scenic drive.
Rock Climbing Opportunities
Calico Hills
A popular spot for climbers, offering various routes on grippy, smooth sandstone.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
What to Wear and Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating the sandstone and trails. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated in the desert climate. :droplet:
📸 Capture Golden Hour
The light is magical for photos as the sun sets. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Utilize the Scenic Drive
Stop at various points for stunning views and short walks. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating the sandstone and trails. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated in the desert climate. :droplet:
📸 Capture Golden Hour
The light is magical for photos as the sun sets. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Utilize the Scenic Drive
Stop at various points for stunning views and short walks. :car:
🧗♀️ Explore Off-Trail
Discover unique formations and climbing spots. :rock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Calico Hills as a beautiful and fun natural playground, perfect for hiking and photography. The unique sandstone formations are a major draw, offering opportunities for scrambling and climbing. Many appreciate the stunning views and the chance to experience nature close to Las Vegas.
"It's fun and relaxing hike."
Zemin Hu (old skool boy)
"Beautiful area in Red Rock. Calico Hills is one of the first stops when you take the Scenic Loop from the Red Rock Visitor Center. You can just park your car and explore the hiking trail which is well marked. I definitely recommend to hike this trail for the best views. It's not very far until the next car stop (less than a mile) and you can always turn back the same way. When the sun is going down, you'll have beautiful light for pictures. If you're lucky you can also spot some (small and non-dangerous) wildlife."
Matthijs Keij
"Nature’s playground. Many opportunities to go off trail. The strawberry and cream rock is grippy yet smooth and so much fun to climb."
Olesya Hunter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Calico Hills is located within Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, about a 30-45 minute drive west of the Las Vegas Strip. You can drive your own vehicle or take a taxi/rideshare. The area is accessible via the 13-mile scenic drive, with Calico Hills being one of the early stops. +1
Currently, there is no direct public transportation to Red Rock Canyon. Visitors typically drive, use rideshares, or join organized tours.
The 13-mile scenic drive is the primary way to explore Red Rock Canyon, with numerous pull-offs for parking and accessing trails. Many visitors also use apps for navigation and trail information.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Fees can vary, so it's best to check the official website for current pricing.
Yes, the 13-mile scenic drive is popular for road biking and mountain biking. However, be aware of vehicle traffic and plan accordingly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
During peak seasons or times, a timed entry reservation might be required for the scenic drive. It's highly recommended to check the official Red Rock Canyon website for any reservation requirements before your visit.
Red Rock Canyon is typically open daily from sunrise to sunset. The visitor center has specific hours, so it's advisable to check their schedule if you plan to visit it.
The entrance fee is per vehicle and can vary. Check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Discounts may be available for certain passes like the America the Beautiful Pass. Check with the visitor center or official website for details.
No, an entrance fee is required to access the scenic drive and most of the park's main attractions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Calico Hills offers various trails, from easy strolls to more challenging scrambles. The main trails allow you to explore the vibrant sandstone formations. Many visitors enjoy the flexibility to go off-trail and climb the rocks.
Yes, Calico Hills is great for families. Kids can enjoy scrambling on the rocks and exploring the unique landscape. Remember to supervise children closely and bring plenty of water.
You might spot small, non-dangerous wildlife like lizards and various desert birds. Keep a respectful distance and do not feed the animals.
Absolutely! Calico Hills is a photographer's paradise, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, offering stunning red rock landscapes.
Restroom facilities are available at the visitor center and some of the main pull-offs along the scenic drive. It's always a good idea to use them when you see them.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at Calico Hills. The red sandstone glows intensely during these times.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant rock formations. A tripod can help with low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Conservation Areas like Red Rock Canyon. Always check the latest regulations with the BLM before flying a drone.
The unique swirling patterns of the sandstone, the 'strawberry and cream' colored rocks, and the panoramic views from higher points are particularly photogenic.
Yes, you can photograph rock climbers, but always maintain a safe distance and be respectful of their activity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as the desert can be dehydrating. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for safety while climbing. Keep an eye out for small desert critters, which can be an exciting discovery for kids. The scenic drive also offers plenty of stops for short, manageable walks that are perfect for little legs.
🧗♀️ Rock Climbers and Adventurers
+1Climbers should come prepared with appropriate gear and knowledge of the area. It's advisable to check local climbing guides or apps for route information and safety. The unique rock formations provide an exciting and visually stunning backdrop for any climbing adventure.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the raw beauty of the Mojave Desert landscape. The opportunity to explore off-trail and discover hidden nooks adds to the charm. Even a short visit can be incredibly rewarding, offering a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to connect with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Calico Hills Trails
These trails are not just about the physical act of hiking; they are an immersion into a unique desert landscape. The geological features are striking, with layers of ancient sandstone creating a visually stunning environment. The area is particularly popular for photography, especially during the golden hours when the light accentuates the rich colors of the rock.
For those interested in a more active experience, Calico Hills is also a renowned spot for rock climbing. The Panty Wall, for instance, is mentioned as a location for sport routes. Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk, a challenging scramble, or a climbing adventure, Calico Hills provides a memorable outdoor experience close to Las Vegas.
+1The Scenic Drive Experience
Each stop along the scenic drive presents a different perspective of the canyon's geology and landscape. From the vibrant hues of Calico Hills to the expansive vistas, the drive is designed to showcase the natural splendor of the area. It's a perfect way to get an overview of Red Rock Canyon's grandeur, especially if you're short on time or prefer a more relaxed exploration.
Beyond just driving, many of these stops are gateways to short hikes, picnic areas, and viewpoints. The drive itself is an attraction, offering a continuous spectacle of desert beauty. It's recommended to take your time, stop frequently, and soak in the breathtaking scenery that makes Red Rock Canyon a must-visit destination.
Photography and Golden Hour Magic
Many visitors recommend timing their visit specifically for these periods to get the best shots. The swirling patterns in the sandstone and the unique 'strawberry and cream' colored rocks are particularly photogenic. Even a short walk can lead to incredible photographic opportunities, with the landscape offering endless compositions.
Beyond the golden hours, the unique geological features themselves provide ample subject matter. Whether you're using a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness or a telephoto lens for intricate details, Calico Hills offers a rich palette for any photographer. The relatively uncrowded nature of the area during off-peak times also allows for more focused and unhurried photography sessions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit