Red Rock Canyon

Officially known as the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, this attraction 15 miles from the Las Vegas Strip is a worthwhile drive if you’ve decided to rent a car in Las Vegas. The scenic loop is amazing during good light and is quite a contrast to the rest of the city.

Getting there

The easiest way to reach Red Rock Canyon is drive north on the Strip past the Stratosphere Tower, which more or less marks the northern edge of the Strip. The next major light going north is Charleston Blvd, where you’ll turn left and keep driving for 15 miles. You’ll have to deal with stop lights for most of the way, but you can make it in about 25 minutes from the Strip and it’s quite a nice drive as well.

Hours

The area opens at 6 a.m. all year round, but it closes near sunset every day, which is 5 p.m. November through February, 7 p.m. in March and October, and 8 p.m. from April through September.

Visitor’s Center hours are 8 a.m. to 4: 30 p.m. year round.

Visitor’s Center

When you first arrive at the Visitor’s Center you’ll have to pay $5 for the privilege of the amazing scenic loop you are about to do. You can also check out the displays and ask questions, but the main event is the loop itself.

13-Mile Loop Drive

This one-way road winds for 13 miles through the canyon and offers some incredible views from inside the car, but there are many vista lookout points and parking lots where you can stop for a closer look and better photo opportunities.

Other activities

There is a developed campground on the site, which is available for an extra fee, but daytime visitors have plenty of good hiking opportunities with trailheads right off 13-Mile Loop Drive. Get more information on the best hikes along with maps at the Visitor’s Center on the way in. There are picnic grounds just off the Loop as well, so even if you aren’t in the mood for a major hike you can still spend some quality time stuffing your face in the park.

This isn’t something you’d do on a whim, but the 13-Mile Loop is very popular for bicycle tours and people training. A bit more information is available on the official website.

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