Hike the scenic Calico Overlook Hiking Trail and Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area marvel at the stunning views!
Enjoy nature and explore the great Hiking Trails Las Vegas Red Rock Canyon outdoors.
Distance: 1.5 miles roundtrip; Average time: 1 hour; Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Calico Overlook Hiking Trail
Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path hiking experience that will take your breath away and leave you inspired?
Look no further than the Calico Overlook Hiking Trail, located in Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area, just 25 minutes from Las Vegas.
This 1.5-mile loop trail is a moderately difficult hike, but the payoff is worth it!
You’ll be immersed in lush desert scrub vegetation and mesmerized by the stunning red-and-white sandstone cliffs.
With the right preparation, you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure.
So, what are you waiting for?
Grab your gear and join us for a journey to the Calico Overlook Hiking Trail.
Key Takeaways
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- Calico Overlook Hiking Trail is a 1.5-mile loop trail in Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area, located about 25 minutes from Las Vegas.
- The trail is moderately difficult and offers scenic views of lush Mojave Desert Scrub vegetation and red-and-white sandstone cliffs.
- Hikers should bring the essentials, respect the land by leaving no trace, and take standard precautions when hiking in the desert.
- Trekking poles are recommended due to loose gravel on steep hillsides.
Location and Access
The Calico Overlook Trail is located about 25 minutes outside of Las Vegas and is accessed via West Charleston Blvd and Calico Basin Road.
The trailhead is located at the Red Spring Trailhead, just outside of the Scenic Loop fee area.
Hikers should park at the trailhead and should be aware that the trail is moderately difficult, so trekking poles are recommended.
The best time to hike is usually early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler.
The trailhead has no amenities, so visitors should bring the essentials and respect the land by leaving no trace.
The 1.5-mile loop trail takes hikers through lush Mojave Desert scrub vegetation and red-and-white sandstone cliffs, offering plenty of scenic views.
Nearby attractions include the Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area and the Red Spring Picnic Area, making this a great spot for a day hike.
Trail Description
Climb up a steep ridge and descend into a valley, passing colorful sandstone boulders and a side entrance onto the boardwalk – you’ll be in for a treat!
The Calico Overlook Trail is a moderately difficult 1.5-mile loop located in Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area, about 25 minutes from Las Vegas.
The Trailhead is accessed via West Charleston Blvd and Calico Basin Road and is located at Red Spring Trailhead, not inside the Scenic Loop fee area.
Recommended gear includes the essentials, trekking poles, and respect for the land by leaving no trace.
Trail conditions vary from lush Mojave Desert Scrub vegetation to loose gravel on steep hillsides.
Here’s a 4-item list of what to expect:
1. Start at Red Spring Trailhead and climb steeply to a ridge.
2. Descend into a valley and make a scenic loop.
3. Gain the top of the ridge, Calico Overlook, with views of Calico Basin area.
4. Descend steeply on the other side of the ridge.
Essentials and Safety
Bringing the essentials and trekking poles is essential for a safe journey on the Calico Overlook Hiking Trail, like a shield protecting you from the unknown.
Hiking gear such as a first-aid kit, food, water, a map, and a compass should always be brought along.
Desert precautions, like sunscreen, a hat, and a full water bottle, will also come in handy.
The trail difficulty is moderate, yet still requires appropriate hiking equipment and trail etiquette.
Respect the land and stay on the designated route, leaving no trace behind.
Being prepared with the right gear and knowledge will make your adventure a safe and enjoyable one.
Scenery and Highlights
Exploring the lush Mojave Desert scrub vegetation and stunning red-and-white sandstone cliffs of the Calico Overlook Hiking Trail is a must for any outdoor enthusiast, despite the moderate difficulty of the hike.
This 1.5-mile loop trail, located about 25 minutes from Las Vegas, offers unique rock formations, vibrant desert vegetation, and stunning panoramic views of the Calico Basin area.
Hikers should park at the Red Spring Trailhead, located at the intersection of West Charleston Blvd and Calico Basin Road, and enter the loop, beginning with a steep climb up a ridge.
Along the way, hikers can admire the red and white sandstone cliffs and the lush Mojave Desert Scrub.
At the top of the ridge, Calico Overlook, hikers can rest and take in the stunning views.
The trail then descends steeply, follows an old road, and returns back to the starting point.
Respect the land by packing out what you brought in and following the essentials for a safe and enjoyable outing.
Calico Overlook Hiking Trail Conclusion
Ready to experience the beauty of Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area?
Don’t let the moderately difficult hike scare you off; the Calico Overlook Hiking Trail is worth the effort.
With its stunning red-and-white sandstone cliffs, lush Mojave Desert Scrub vegetation, and breathtaking views of Calico Basin, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
And with the essentials and trekking poles, you’ll be well-prepared and safe.
So don’t miss out – head to the Red Springs Trailhead and take the Calico Overlook Hiking Trail!
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