Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is located 20 miles west of Las Vegas, Nevada. This 197,000-acre area provides a 13-mile scenic drive, more than 30 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and a Visitor Center with exhibit rooms and a bookstore.

The unique geologic features, plants and animals of Red Rock Canyon represent some of the best examples of the Mojave Desert. Red Rock Canyon is enjoyed by the local population as well as visitors from the United States and many foreign countries. More than one million visitors each year enjoy the spectacular desert landscape, climbing and hiking opportunities, and interpretive programs sponsored by the BLM.

Scenic Drive: The 13-mile scenic drive is a one-way road. (Bicycles are allowed.) Sightseeing, photography, and hiking trails are accessible from the designated pullouts and parking areas. The scenic drive is open daily from 7a.m. to dusk.

Interpretive Activities\Visitor Center: Activity schedules for naturalist-guided walks, programs, and talks are posted at the Visitor Center between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30p.m. Call (702) 363-1921.

Geology: The most significant geologic feature of Red Rock Canyon is the Keystone Thrust Fault. About 65 million years ago, it is believed that two of the Earth's crustal plates collided with such force that part of one plate of gray limestone was thrust up and over the younger red sandstone. The Keystone Thrust Fault extends from the Cottonwood Fault (along State Route 160) 13 miles northward to the vicinity of La Madre Mountain where it is obscured by more complex faulting.

Hiking Red Rock Canyon: A variety of hiking trails are offered in the NCA. Easy trails are short and mostly level. Moderately strenuous and strenuous trails require hiking long distances, often uphill. Extreme summer heat makes any hike more difficult and exhausting. Early morning and late afternoon are best for hiking, unless you come in spring or fall when it is much cooler.