Red Rock Canyon: Calico Tanks Morning Hike

Red Rock Canyon: Calico Tanks Morning Hike

Join us for one of the best short hikes in Red Rock Canyon. Calico Tanks winds up a red and yellow sandstone canyon to a hidden water pocket, then tops out at an overlook with a view of the whole Las Vegas valley.

THE HIKE
- Distance: about 2.5 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: about 450 feet
- Difficulty: moderate, with some light rock scrambling near the top (you'll use your hands in a few spots)
- Time: about 2 hours at a social pace, with plenty of photo stops

WHERE AND WHEN
- Meet at 7:45 AM at the Sandstone Quarry trailhead, the third pullout on the Red Rock Scenic Drive
- Look for the group near the trailhead sign. We start hiking at 8:00 sharp
- You must be through the entrance gate before 8:00 AM. After that you need a timed entry reservation from Recreation.gov, so aim to reach the gate by 7:35

COST
- The hike is free
- Park entry is $20 per vehicle (America the Beautiful passes work), so carpool and split it. Post in the comments if you need or can offer a ride

WHAT TO BRING
- At least 2 liters of water (there is none on the trail)
- Shoes with good grip, because the sandstone is slick
- Sun protection and a light layer for the cool morning start

GOOD TO KNOW
- Beginner friendly if you're comfortable with uneven, rocky terrain
- No one gets left behind. We regroup at every junction
- Cell service is spotty in the canyon, so screenshot these details before you go