Red Springs Cardio Scramble - Beginner Friendly

There will be a lot of traffic going to and from Calico Basin. Make sure to leave extra time to get there - the goal is to arrive at least 10 minutes before the posted hike time as we leave the parking area on time. We'll meet near the large picnic area covering to the left of the boardwalk entrance

Whether you’re ready to try rock scrambling for the first time or want to get back into it, this Cardio Scramble is for you. If this is your first event with VegasHikers, here are some tips to help you get started.

Our scenic jaunt across Red Springs Peak starts at the South end of the picnic area. We’ll start taking a steep, rugged ascent; scrambling up rocks and over boulders to the ridge and around to the Scenic West Side. Get a bird’s eye view of the colorful Rainbow Wall, Mt. Wilson, the Park’s highest peak and possibly the snow-capped Mt. Charleston.

This is a strenuous cardio route and not appropriate for people who are afraid of heights or tight spaces. Be prepared to burn some serious calories and soak in the gorgeous desert views.

Our total ascent will be between 800-900 feet in about 2.5 hours, so you must be in decent physical condition. The pace will be slow to moderate.

Requirements:

• Water or other hydration liquid - Minimum 2 liters is recommended
• Full use of both hands & feet
• Appropriate footwear (Hiking shoes with Vibram soles or approach shoes)

There will be some fun ascents, perhaps some slots for those with experience, and lots of cardio to get your heart pumping.

As always, we'll keep an eye out for any wildlife to be seen along the way. In this area, there are many different animals like chuckwallas, red tailed hawks, ring tailed cat, and roadrunners, and the odd tarantula.

Critical Info
If your VegasHikers profile does not reflect rock scrambling proficiency, please sent me a private note with your rock scrambling experience. This is needed before I can put you on the "going" list. To send me a note through Meetup click on my profile and then click "send a message".

Not for those afraid of heights or tight spaces. You must be able to pull your body weight up and lower yourself down using your arms.

Everyone signs on to the wait list.

• Helmets are always welcome. Be sure to use one that doesn't block your sight.
• No guests. Everyone attending must be part of VegasHikers. It takes only a few minutes to create a profile and it's FREE.
• Since there is no cell reception, canceling less than an hour before the posted start time will be considered a "no show.
• Always carry "in case of emergency" numbers with you in your pack (hard copy, not digital format).

Check the weather before you come out, and please be prepared (sunscreen, hats, extra water, multiple clothing layers, etc).

We leave the trailhead at the posted hike time, so please arrive at least 10 minutes early for last minute preparations.

No guests will be allowed. Everyone on the going list must be a member of VegasHikers. It takes a couple of minutes to sign up and it's FREE.

YOU MUST BE ON THE "GOING" LIST IN ORDER TO GO ON THIS HIKE. CRASHING WILL NOT BE ALLOWED.

We'll meet at the Red Springs Parking Lot in Calico Basin. To get there, just head west on Charleston towards the park and make a right turn onto the well-marked Calico Basin turnoff. It's 2 miles BEFORE the Park entrance. Follow the road down to the Red Springs parking lot.

Frequently asked questions. ( https://www.meetup.com/VegasHikers/pages/Frequently_Asked_Questions/ )

Distance: 1.75 miles round trip approximately
Elevation gain: ~ 850 total ft.
High point: ~4,260
Low point: ~3,598
Difficulty: moderate
Pace: ~ 1 mph.
Children: no.
Dogs: no.
Poles: no
Bring: At LEAST one liter of water. Snacks if you want.

Please note the following:

• Meetup organizers are not tour guides and are not park rangers. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being.

• By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other outdoor activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. The organizers of this group and current and former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant - including you - at any event.

• All attendees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests.

• By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the organizers of this Meetup group.