Tarantula Trek in Red Rock

As the sun begins to set over Red Rock Canyon, the desert comes alive in ways most visitors never get to see. Hidden among the rocks and sandy washes around Kraft Mountain are some of Southern Nevada's most fascinating residents—tarantulas! During the fall, these normally elusive spiders become more active above ground, offering a rare opportunity to encounter and photograph them in their natural habitat.

We'll explore the Ash Spring Trail area at a relaxed pace, keeping our eyes open for tarantulas as the afternoon light fades into golden hour and sunset. For photographers, this is a chance to capture everything from close-up details of these remarkable creatures to dramatic wildlife compositions against the colorful sandstone landscape. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but with a little patience and luck, we may discover a side of the Mojave that most people never experience!

⚠️ Please bring a flashlight or headlamp, as we'll be exploring into dusk and may return after dark.

Tarantulas are generally harmless when left alone, but please do not touch, handle, or disturb them. Give them space, photograph from a respectful distance, and watch where you step—especially after sunset. Other desert wildlife may also be present.

MEETUP INFO:
We will meet at the Kraft Mountain parking lot at 3:30pm, giving us time to get situated before sunset at 4:39pm, when tarantulas tend to become more active. We'll continue exploring into dusk to maximize our chances of sightings.

The meeting location is approximately a 30-minute drive from Las Vegas, on the west side of the city near Red Rock Canyon. Please plan accordingly to arrive on time.

MEETUP FEES:
There are no fees for this event.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY:
Expect approximately 1.5 miles of easy hiking along gravel and uneven desert trails as we search for tarantulas. We'll move at a relaxed pace with frequent stops for photography.

You can view the full potential route on AllTrails, although we may not explore the entire trail.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Please ensure your drone is charged, updated, and ready to fly prior to arrival.

If your plans change and you are unable to attend, please be courteous and cancel your RSVP so that someone else can attend.

DESERT PHOTO EXPLORERS LIABILITY DISCLAIMER AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK:
By submitting your RSVP and participating in any Desert Photo Explorers event, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
1. Assumption of Risk: You understand and voluntarily accept that outdoor activities such as hiking, off-roading, and photography carry inherent risks, including but not limited to injury, property damage, or other unforeseen harm. You agree to assume full responsibility for your participation and the participation of your guest(s).
2. Release of Liability: To the fullest extent permitted by law, you release and discharge the Organizer(s), Event Host(s), and any affiliated individuals or entities from any and all liability for injury, damage, loss, or claims arising from your participation in any event, including those caused by negligence.
3. Personal Responsibility: You confirm that you have reviewed all event instructions, understand the requirements, and agree to participate at your own risk. You are solely responsible for assessing your physical fitness, skills, and preparedness to participate in any event.
4. Guest Responsibility: If you bring guest(s), you agree to communicate these terms to them and accept responsibility for their compliance.

By submitting your RSVP, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to this liability disclaimer and assumption of risk. You fur