The Other Side of Las Vegas: Red Rock Canyon

By J. A. Young

It may be true-most people travel to Vegas for the bright lights, the casinos, and the myriad of shows that make the town an entertainment capital of the world. Few people ever wander further from the strip and happily enjoy the dynamic venues and gambling rooms the city has to offer. On the other hand, some travelers may be excited to learn that Las Vegas offers some extraordinary landscape for outdoor enthusiasts that should not be missed. Red Rock Canyon and its breathtaking scenery makes for a great break from the bright lights and fast-paced lifestyle of the city.

Located a mere fifteen miles from downtown Vegas, Red Rock Canyon offers both scenic beauty and outdoor activity for people who want to escape the bustle of the city. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area occupies 197,000 square miles of Mojave Desert land. Its flora, fauna, and rock formations are bound to captivate any visitor to the desert and the experience may even make up for gambling losses incurred at any of the city's casinos!

Climbing the red rocks is no easy task, but rock climbers will find the formations utterly tempting. The maze of rocks juts into the sky; the tops of the formations are actually visible from downtown Vegas. Comfortable clothing and good hiking boots are absolute musts for climbing the rocks. Be sure to take plenty of water for the upward trek as well. The red rocks are typical terrain for this area of the west, but the formations make for a memorable recreational activity. Also, climbers will want to note the weather; while Las Vegas enjoys a mostly sunny climate, occasional storms can cause flash flooding and make climbing a dangerous business.

If you're not up to a rigorous climb, consider taking a scenic drive through the marvelous desert landscape. There are various places to park and sightsee. Other travelers will enjoy all the photographing opportunities available within the area. The scenic drive is open daily from 6 AM until sunset and provides unsurpassed views of the majestic Aztec sandstone. Biking enthusiasts also find the area an exciting place to enjoy their sport.

When visiting Red Rock Canyon, be sure to stop by the Visitor Center which can provide considerable information about the geology and even point out some of the best spots to begin a rock climb. They are also knowledgeable about the area's flora and fauna and can provide a wealth of information about this fascinating terrain. Additionally, the area offers a gift shop filled with the wares of talented artisans. The store also provides various exhibits that offer greater interpretation of the landscape and the Native American culture that once thrived there.

Although the city has its own myriad of attractions, be sure to consider a short side trip to the red rocks for a touch of natural scenery and recreation. The experience is bound to rejuvenate and will make your Vegas experience a well-rounded one.

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The Other Side of Las Vegas: Red Rock Canyon