Red Rock is a must see in Las Vegas

Red Rock National Conservation Area is located just miles from the Las Vegas strip. The natural beauty that surrounds Las Vegas is really outstanding! Yet, when you say Las Vegas, the first thing people think of is the casinos, slot machines, endless buffets and the shows. But all around Las Vegas you have some of the most beautiful locations in the American Southwest. Out of the countless areas to spend a nice day out, Red Rock is and should be at the top of the list.

It is great to see any time of the year!

From Winter storms like the one above, to beautiful summer mornings, you can enjoy Red Rock at any time of the year. This, however, does come with some cautions when visiting the conservation area. First, in the summer months (generally May through Sept.) the Las Vegas valley area is exceptionally hot. In July and August temperatures can reach their peak of 115+ degrees! So if you're going to explore Red Rock in the summer, do so either very early in the morning or around sunset in the evening. In the winter and spring months, it can be quite cold and windy out so make sure to bring hats and gloves with those jackets. Just check out this video of mine from this past winter.

The Loop, Trails and a state park all in one!

Red Rock is a national conservation area that is under the bureau of land management. Basically, it falls under the national parks and there is an entrance fee to what is called "The Loop" portion of the area. So if you have an annual national parks pass then you can access the park without further fees. Otherwise the entrance fee to the park loop is $15 per vehicle and $25 per commercial vehicle i.e. a van or bus with multiple people.

The loop is a 13 mile paved road that takes you through the heart of Red Rock. On the loop you will be able to take a separate road to the visitor's center and have chances to stop at the many parking areas to explore the conservation area. You can hike, bike or climb through Red Rock and don't forget to take pictures of the beautiful Red and Marble colored sandstone! If you are interested in seeing all the available trails that Red Rock has to offer here is a direct link to their website https://www.blm.gov/site-page/RRCNCA

Outside the Loop and Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Outside of the loop and fee area is the scenic overlook that gives you and beautiful 180 degree view of the main park. It is open from sun up to sundown so be sure to check times according to season. Just past the exit of the loop, you will find several dirt lot pull outs that offer unique hiking and view experiences. Oak Creek and First Creek are the two trails that offer up close views of Mt. Wilson and others in the Red Rock mountain range. These trails also offer seasonal running water with small waterfalls as you go deeper into the trail. Just beyond the pull outs, you will find yourself at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. This deserves its own post so look forward to that! Needless to say, it offers some very unique history to the area and worth taking the tour of the main ranch house.

Check out more of my fine art photographs from Red Rock and Nevada at

https://www.jarrodamesphotography.com/nevada-collection

Red Rock's amazing and unique features of Red and Marble colored sandstone along with the various plant and wildlife make it a must see destination. So if you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, it is definitely worth the time to see Red Rock National Conservation Area and take in the beautiful scenery!

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