Located approximately 8.7 miles past the fee station inside the scenic loop of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, the Red Rock Wash Overlook boasts gorgeous views of the entire valley.
Red Rock Wash Info
| Location | Red Rock Wash Overlook, Las Vegas, NV 89161 |
| GPS Coordinates | 36.142706284322294, -115.47303480962863 |
| Distance from fee station | ~8.7 miles |
| Elevation | ~4,362 feet |
| Average Time | < 30 minutes |
| Restrooms | Not available |
| Rating | 4.0 Mooses |
What to expect at Red Rock Wash Overlook
We’ve been to Red Rock Canyon numerous times and we always drove right past this hidden gem.
I’m blaming it on the overwhelming excitement we’ve experienced every time we visit the park.
We finally discovered this quick stop and we’re glad we did.
Just past the turnoff for Ice Box Canyon, you’ll find the Red Rock Wash Overlook on the left-hand side of the road.
There are six parking spots in the overlook loop, with three on the south side and three on the north.
Insider tip: Grab the first spot you see as once you enter the overlook parking area as the one-way road won’t allow you to return without driving the entire scenic loop again.
This overlook is one of the least visited areas of the park and you’re likely to have it all to yourself when you visit.
Once parked, you may want to take advantage of the many benches for a little relaxation, or explore the area with its many photo ops. Keep in mind, there are no official trails that leave from this vantage.
After you’ve a chance to snap some pictures, you can complete the scenic loop or check out the next stop on our 1-day itinerary.
Notable Landmarks seen from the Red Rock Wash Overlook
- North – Turtlehead Peak & the La Madre Mountains
- South – Rainbow Wilderness Area (including Mount Wilson & Bridge Mountain)
- Northeast – Calico Hills
- Northwest – White Rock Hills
Know before you go
- The Red Rock Wash Overlook is located within the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area boundary, and requires a fee to enter the park. A $20 day pass (pricing subject to change) or an America the Beautiful Pass is required for entry. Additionally, during high season, you’ll need to get a reservation to enter the park during high season (Oct 1 – May 31). Alternatively, you can enter the park before 8 a.m. to avoid reservations, but you’ll still need a pass (which can be purchased onsite). Reservations can be made at recreation.gov.
- As you are driving on the scenic loop, be sure to obey the speed limit signs and watch out for bikers.
- The speed limit drops to 15 mph around the Ice Box Canyon trailhead and you’ll find the Red Rock Wash area just past the Ice Box Canyon turnoff.
Should you visit the Red Rock Wash Overlook?
Rating: 4.0 Mooses
What we like:
- This is a hidden gem stop along the scenic loop in Red Rock Canyon. It makes for a perfect stop on your 1-day tour.
- We enjoyed the close-up views of the Rainbow Wilderness Mountain area at the edge of the park.
- The solitude at this stop is great.
What we don’t like:
- There’s no shade at this overlook. There’s also no trash receptables, bike racks or restrooms. You can find these down the road at the Pine Creek trailhead.
- It’s an easy to miss stop on your journey through the park.
If you’re looking for more ideas for your visit to Red Rock Canyon, check out our 1-day itinerary in the park.
More Information for your Trip to Red Rock Canyon:
Red Rock Canyon (within the park on the scenic loop)
Calico Basin (entrance is currently free)
- Red Spring Boardwalk (Picnic area / photo spot, short walk and jumping off point for other hikes).
- Hiking: