In this guide, I cover frequently asked questions about Red Rock Canyon.
What is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area in Nevada known for?
The Preserve was originally designated by the Bureau of Land Management in 1967. In 1990, it was officially changed to a National Conservation Area. The Canyon area is known for its abundant wildlife, sweeping views and contains a wide variety of hiking and rock climbing opportunities.
Visitors can bike the 13-mile scenic drive, hike up a mountain or enjoy the beautiful red rocks that dot the natural landscape. Only a quick 30-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, this Conversation Area is visited by over 2,000,000 visitors a year.
What is the address of Red Rock Canyon?
1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161
Is there a fee to enter Red Rock Canyon?
Yes.
You may purchase a day-pass ($20) to enter the park or purchase an annual pass ($50). The America the Beautiful Pass also works here. (Pricing is subject to change).
Reservations are now required for entrance into the park between October 1 and May 31th (after 8 a.m.). Reservations can be made here.
How long does it take to drive through Red Rock Canyon?
The park includes a one-way scenic route of 13-miles. The speed limit is 25 miles per hour and can be driven through in less than 30 minutes (depending on how long you stop to enjoy the scenery.)
If you’re looking for an easy itinerary for your day trip, check out some recommended stops here.
How far is Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas?
Red Rock Canyon is located approx 23 miles from the Vegas Strip. It takes around 30 minutes to drive there.
Is there a visitor center at Red Rock Canyon?
Yes there is! The visitor center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Experience a multitude of indoor and outdoor exhibits, educational videos, a well stocked Elements gift shop and during the right season, live desert tortoises.
The Information Desk is quick to offer assistance about local hikes, weather conditions, and current alerts or closures in the park.
More information can be found on the official website for the park.
Related: Our experience at the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center
What is the elevation of Red Rock Canyon?
The visitor center at Red Rock Canyon is 3,720 feet. The highest point in the park clocks in at 8,154 feet, which is the summit of La Madre Mountain.
What animals live in Red Rock Canyon?
There are many types of animals found in the Red Rock Canyon area.
- Antelope Ground Squirrel
- Jackrabbit
- Bobcats
- Coyotes
- Fox
- Wild Burro
- Mountain Lions
- Bighorn Sheep
If you’re looking for more than just mammals, you can also find a wide variety of amphibians and reptiles.
- Desert Tortoise
- Red Racer Snake
- California King Snake
- Western Banded Gecko
- Western Fence Lizards
- Mojave Green Rattlesnake
- Desert Iguanas
- Variety of Spiders
What is the weather like in the Red Rock Canyon?
The weather varies widely throughout the year. The hottest months are June, July & August. With a higher elevation than Las Vegas, the temperatures are far less than some of the surrounding areas.
| Category | Avg. Annual Temperature |
|---|---|
| Avg High Temperature | 68.6 |
| Avg Low Temperature | 44.8 |
Can I use a drone at Red Rock Canyon?
Yes!
Drones are allowed for recreational purposes only in the Red Rock Canyon area. Be respectful of other visitors and wildlife.
Drones are not allowed at the La Madre Mountain or Rainbow Mountain Wilderness Areas.
Learn more about the boundaries of the wilderness area here. Also, be sure to check for updates on Red Rock Canyon Las Vegas website as for changes to the drone policy.
More Information for your trip to Red Rock Canyon
- Visitor Center: Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center
- Suggested Itinerary: Scenic Drive Stops
- Overlook: High Point Overlook (accessible via car)
- Overlook: Red Wash Overlook (accessible via car)
- Overlook: Red Rock Canyon Overlook (accessible via car)
- Hiking: Keystone Thrust Trail
- Hiking: Exploring Ice Box Canyon
- Hiking: Summiting Turtlehead Peak
- Hiking: Calico Tanks Trail
- Hiking: Petroglyph Wall Trail
- Hiking: A list of every hike in Red Rock Canyon Area
- Calico Basin: Red Spring Boardwalk
You might also like:
- Las Vegas: Essential Hiking Guide for Las Vegas
- Nevada: 4 Hours in the Valley of Fire
- Nevada: A Nature lovers guide to Vegas – what not to miss
- California: Hiking Gower Gulch in Death Valley