Calico Tanks
Description
Travel outside the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas to experience a beautiful outdoor paradise when you hike the Calico Tanks trail in the Red Rock Canyon Conservation area.
Once you enter the conservation area, you will be pleasantly surprised that such a cool rock and outdoor area is so close to the lights, noise, and craziness of Las Vegas! The contrasting reds, oranges, and whites are reminiscent of Snow Canyon State Park in Saint George, Utah.
The Calico Tanks trail goes short distance through a wash, then begins it’s ascent through the multi-colored sandstone rocks. Most of the hike is on the sandstone, with occasional steps and climbing along the rocks. You will emerge to a hidden water area. From past reviews, the water level in this pond-like section can vary from dried up to full depending on the time of year. Continue just past the water and climb up further for a beautiful lookout over the recreation area and of Las Vegas in the distance.
The Scenic Drive loop has numerous trailheads and pullouts to stop and enjoy the view or complete another hike while you are in the conservation area. There is a waterfall hike and also petroglyphs to check out while you are here as well.
Tell Me More
Difficulty: Moderate related to some scrambling.
Trail Stats: 2.4 miles, out and back, 439 feet elevation gain.
Trail Finding: Relatively easy. There were a few
Conditions: Some sand, loose rock, some scrambling to the lookout area.
Would I Repeat This: Yes, very enjoyable!
Let’s Do This
Parking: Yes, adequate parking space is available.
Timing: This trail does not offer much shade. Keep it mind desert conditions, which can mean extreme heat, as well as cold temperatures in the winter months in the morning.
Downloaded Map: Yes, this was helpful.
Fees: This trail is within the Red Rock Canyon Conservation area. You will need a reservation time to enter for parts of the year (presently this is required October 1 – May 31st) and you will need to pay a nominal entry fee. Find more information and make purchase your ticketed entry here:
Nearby Fun
Trails: Red Cap Rock Canyon Trail, Keystone Thrust, Ice Box Canyon, Calico Hills, Petroglyph Wall, and more.
The website for Red Rock Canyon is very helpful. Check out the link below for more tips, including maps:
The visitor’s guide is especially useful:
More Photos
