Highlights
Day entry to the 13-mile one-way Scenic Drive with access to signed viewpoints, parking lots, and trailheads along the loop. America the Beautiful passes honored. Visitor Center exhibits/shop nearby.
About this experience
Thirty minutes west of the Strip, Red Rock’s 13-mile Scenic Drive threads crimson sandstone, desert varnish and Joshua tree flats. It’s a one-way loop with overlooks and trailheads (Calico, Sandstone Quarry, Petroglyph Wall, Pine Creek, et al.). Expect timed entry in cooler months and a calm, crowd-managed flow.
What's included
- Day entry to the 13-mile one-way Scenic Drive with access to signed viewpoints, parking lots, and trailheads along the loop. America the Beautiful passes honored. Visitor Center exhibits/shop nearby.
Who it's for
- All ages; easy pull-offs for quick photos, plus trail options from family-friendly to strenuous (e.g., Calico Tanks ~2.2 mi RT).
What you'll do
- Enter the fee station → cruise the loop at ≤35 mph → stop at Calico Hills, High Point Overlook, Ice Box/Pine Creek, etc. Plan 2—4 hours with photo stops or a short hike.
Before you go
- Timed entry required Oct 1—May 31 for 8 am—5 pm arrivals (book on Recreation.gov). Once in, you can stay through that day’s posted hours. Re-entry needs a new reservation.
- Seasonal drive hours (typical): Nov—Feb 6 am—5 pm; Mar 6 am—7 pm; Apr—Sep 6 am—8 pm; Oct 6 am—7 pm. Visitor Center generally 8:00—4:30.
- Speed limit 35 mph; park only in signed lots (lots may close when full).
Good to know
- Fees: day-use $20/vehicle (motorcycle $10; pedestrian/bike $5). Red Rock Annual Pass and America the Beautiful passes accepted.
- Address/geo: use Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center, 1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161; ~17 miles west of the Strip. No public transit.
Why this is worth it
A crowd-managed desert loop 30 minutes from the Strip—book a timed slot in cooler months, roll the 13 miles, stop where it looks unreal, and keep it under 35.