Red Rock Canyon Las Vegas

On our most recent vacation, we weren't sure what to do in Vegas, but we knew we wanted to be outdoors for a good portion of it, and we didn't want to drive more than 30 minutes to find our outdoors hike. And... it just so happened that our resort, Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa (watch or read about it), was literally 6 miles away and we had an amazing view from our room, of the canyons themselves! I can't tell you how many times we have been to Vegas and never even knew this place existed! Anyway, long story short, we decided to just drive up in the canyon area and see what there was to do up there.

We were told about the Scenic Loop which is near the visitors center (a 13 mile one way scenic drive of the Mojave Desert), so we attempted to drive straight through. Ya.... NOPE! Turns out, you actually have to reserve a specific time slot to drive the loop (see below in 'Things To Know' section) & there is a fee to do so. 

After being turned around, of course I had drank a ton of water and needed a bathroom asap, & this is how we landed on our hiking location! Oh, and the best part, it was free to park, and no reservations necessary! 

Here's a few 'tips' or items that we think you should know before you go... or might be thinking about prior to going on your hike. 

• How Do I Get To The Red Rock Canyons?

The easiest way and probably the cheapest way, in my opinion, would be to rent a car. Most resorts/hotels have access to car rentals (if you don't get one from the airport) & sometimes they are cheaper to rent from (sometimes). With saying this, I know renting a car is not always a possibility, so a second option would be to get an Uber or Lyft ride. BUT!! I'll warn you, there is LITTLE TO NO CELL SERVICE in the canyon area, so calling to get a ride in will be fine... the risky part is getting service to call for a ride out! Last but not least, there are tours that you can hop on, and they will pick you up from your resort/hotel. As always, check Groupon first for a discounted price on the tour before paying full price for the same thing! This is a hack we ALWAYS use, especially when we are on vacation... more pennies for mama's pocket (and the slots 😜)  

• How Much Does It Cost To Go To Red Rock Canyon?

There is only one area that charges a fee to gain entry into the Canyons, that is essentially the entrance to the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center and the Scenic Loop (to find this area, type in Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center to your gps). Click HERE to see the fee amounts. Here's the kicker about the Scenic Loop (we learned the hard way), you MUST have a reservation to drive the loop (while the 'beer virus' is still in play), otherwise you will be turned away. We originally were going to drive the Scenic Loop, but of course, we didn't have a reservation, and we couldn't even secure a time slot until the next day! Yes, we were frustrated to say the least, but honestly... what did we expect with all this craziness going on?! So... as of right now (until further notice), if you are wanting to drive the Scenic Loop (vs getting out and hiking), make sure to make a reservation (make a reservation here)!

QUICK TIP: We noticed reservations filled up quickly, so make sure to plan ahead and get a reservation booked asap... maybe even a day prior (don't make the same mistake we made!) 

• There Is Little To NO Cell Service

Yep... this is truly an area that you can escape too, and not get any cell service. I'll be honest, it was hit & miss... but I would just plan for probably not getting any service on your phones. It's a great place to connect with your kids 😜 Also, keep in mind, if you get a ride with Uber or Lyft... you might have a tough time getting in contact with one another! 

• Beware Of Where You Put Your Hands & Your Feet

You are in the desert... and there are little desert creatures that will only show themselves when you get too close, and it could end badly for you! Just something to think about when you are out hiking the Red Rock Canyon area and a reminder about the wildlife!

• The Earlier The Better

We suggest you get to the Red Rock Canyon earlier in the day vs later in the day. Why you ask?!

1. In the summer months (more specifically), it's a tad bit cooler, which means a lesser likely hood of getting fried on the side of the mountain or trails... but you still should wear your sunscreen and bring a hat & water 😉
2.  Parking can be a pain. If you get to the Red Rocks in the afternoon, finding a 'proper' parking spot can be next to impossible. Yes, you can park on the side of the roads, but honestly, we didn't like the idea of not being in a parking spot because we honestly didn't know where we could park, that the car wouldn't get towed. People do have homes up in that area, and if you park in the 'wrong' area, bad new bears! I'll be honest, we saw a TON of cars parked in every nook and cranny, and we did notice multiple 'no parking' signs. So as long as you are looking for the signs and you don't see any, hopefully you can find a spot!
3. You could be sitting in traffic for a good amount of time if you go later in the afternoon... especially on the weekends and holidays! Who wants to sit in traffic while you're on vacation?! 

More Las Vegas:

Watch ➡  Where We Stayed In Las Vegas 

Read ➡ Where We Stayed In Las Vegas

Watch ➡ Where Else We Adventured In Las Vegas