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Red Rock west–of Vegas, that is
Question: Could you give me any information on Red Rock Canyon outside of Las Vegas? I will be there in early June. How far is it and what kind of hiking trails does it have?

Michael Martin
St. Joseph, MO
jem4461@ultra.ccp.com

�����ԹϺ��� Adviser: This mass of multicolored sandstone is just 15 miles west of Las Vegas, making it possible to spin the roulette wheel a few times, jump in your rental car, head out on West Charleston Boulevard, and be swallowed up by sprawling wilderness within minutes–that is, if you can tear yourself away from the glittering lights
of Gamble City.

Within the 16- by 10-mile park, there are plenty of narrow, steep-walled canyons that offer relief from the blistering desert sun. The 13-mile loop road, with about six overlooks and numerous side trails, is a good bet if you want to familiarize yourself with this astounding terrain before heading into the backcountry. Looping off the main road, trails lead into Lost Creek,
Icebox, and Pine Creek canyons–all worthy day hikes.

My advice would be to skip Vegas altogether and spend your time exploring the vast network of trails in Red Rock Canyon–not to mention the more than 1,500 steep climbing routes that scale the red rock and lure thousands of American and international climbers to the park every year. For more information, call the rangers at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
(702-363-1921).