Red Rock Canyon Day Trip: Scenic Drive, Trails & What to Expect
Why Visit Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is one of the easiest and most beautiful outdoor escapes from Las Vegas. Just 25 minutes from the Strip, this conservation area is packed with red sandstone cliffs, family‑friendly hikes, and a stunning 13‑mile scenic drive. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore new trails, this guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect Red Rock Canyon day trip — including the best hikes, tours, fees, and tips.
Red Rock Canyon December 2024
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How to Get to Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas
Red Rock Canyon is one of the easiest day trips from Las Vegas — you can go from the Strip to red rock cliffs in under half an hour.
Distance
Red Rock Canyon is located about 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip, making it one of the closest outdoor destinations to the city.
Drive Time
Expect the drive to take 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic and where you’re staying on the Strip.
Best Route
The simplest and fastest route is:
Take I‑15 South
Merge onto 215 West
Exit at Charleston Blvd / SR‑159
Follow signs straight into the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive entrance
This route is well‑marked and easy for first‑time visitors.
Parking Tips
Parking is available at each stop along the 13‑mile Scenic Drive, but lots can fill up on weekends and holidays.
Arrive early for popular trailheads like Calico Tanks and Ice Box Canyon.
If you’re visiting during the timed‑entry season, make sure your reservation matches your arrival window — rangers will check.
Red Rock Canyon Tours from Las Vegas
If you don’t want to rent a car, here are some options:
Fees & Reservations for Red Rock Canyon
Visiting Red Rock Canyon is easy, but there are a few things you need to know about entrance fees and the seasonal reservation system — especially if you’re planning a morning visit.
Entrance Fees
Red Rock Canyon charges a per‑vehicle fee to access the Scenic Drive:
$20 per vehicle (standard passenger car)
$10 per motorcycle
$8 per bicyclist
$5 per pedestrian
Commercial vehicles: $20 per vehicle + $5 per person
Annual passes are also available if you visit often.
Timed Entry Reservations (October 1 – May 31)
From October 1 through May 31, Red Rock Canyon requires a timed entry reservation for all vehicles entering the Scenic Drive between 8 AM and 5 PM.
This system helps manage crowds and parking — and yes, rangers do check.
Important details:
Reservations are made online through Recreation.gov
You must select a one‑hour arrival window
You can enter anytime during your window, but not before
Reservations often sell out on weekends and holidays
You still need to pay the entrance fee (or use a pass)
Do You Need a Reservation in Summer?
No. From June 1 through September 30, you can enter without a timed reservation — but expect extreme heat and plan accordingly.
Passes That Work Here
You can use:
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Senior Pass
Red Rock Canyon Annual Pass
These cover the entrance fee, but you still need a timed entry reservation during the reservation season.
Pro Tip
If you’re visiting during peak season, book your reservation as soon as you know your travel dates — especially if you want a morning slot for hiking.
Tips for Visiting Red Rock Canyon
Arrive early
Bring more water than you think
Expect limited cell service
Wear sturdy shoes
Book timed entry in advance
Is Red Rock Canyon Worth It?
My husband made a list of 10 hikes that he thought our family could handle. Since we only had one day in the park we did not do this whole list. Some of the hikes we just out a little of the way. Regardless, we had an amazing day. Here is the view from the visitor center. Do not miss the exhibits there, they did a fantastic job on those.
We did a little bit of the Calico Hills hike. My 16-year-old had the best time playing on the rocks here.
We then did some of the Calico Tanks hike. Some of us did more than others. I did not realize we would be hiking over all kinds of rocks and did not wear the best shoes. Keep this in mind when going! This hike was beautiful. I ended up sitting on rocks and waiting for my family to return and I was just happy to be out there.
What to Pack for Red Rock Canyon
Water bottles
Hiking shoes
Portable charger
Sunscreen
Cooling towel
Daypack
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Family-Friendly Trails & Petroglyphs
We saw lots of young families on the Lost-Creek Children’s discovery trail. Somehow, my husband missed the creek on the way out, so we made sure he saw it on the way back to the car. This hike is super close to a short walk to the petroglyphs.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
Places I’ve Stayed
Final Thoughts
I highly recommend this as a 1/2 day or full-day trip from the Las Vegas area. Whether you’re seeking a quick escape from the Las Vegas Strip or a full day immersed in desert beauty, Red Rock Canyon delivers unforgettable views, family-friendly hikes, and a chance to experience Nevada’s natural side. With timed entry tickets, scenic drives, and trails for every skill level, it’s the perfect addition to any Vegas itinerary.
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