We recently had a week off of work between the holidays. Originally, we had grand plans of checking out national parks in southern Utah on an epic road trip. As we were getting close to booking hotels (the night before we would have left!) — we decided to check the weather. Lo and behold, it was going to be rainy and snowy the entire week.
So we quickly pivoted to staying home. With no intentions to stay inside, however, we accomplished 7 hikes in Red Rocks in 7 days! It was a mix of trails we’ve done before and new ones! Here are the top trails we recommend seeing.
Kraft Mountain Loop
Type: Loop
Elevation Gain: 600 Feet
Alltrails >> https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/nevada/kraft-mountain-loop
Excellent all year long, but a true treat in winter since hiking in the sun is quite pleasant this time of year.
Moenkopi Trail + Calico Hills
Miles: Varies
Type: Loop
Alltrails:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/moenkopi-loop
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/calico-hills-trail
This was a new combination for us, and we are very excited about it. The biggest draw to this one (and Kraft Mountain Loop) is that you do NOT need to drive around the entire scenic loop. On this one, you’ll start at the trailhead at the visitor’s parking lot and make your way over to the first parking lot (and second and third if you’re up for it!) and it turns into a fun loop in the heart of red rocks.
La Madre Springs
3.2 Miles
Type: Out and Back
Elevation Gain: 698 Feet
Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/la-madre-springs-trail
If you’re looking to pack in all that the area has to offer, this one checks all of the boxes. You hike between the calico red sandstone and the gray granite mountains in the distance. The trail takes you through the “hidden forest of red rock” with gorgeous juniper and pine trees, and then you land at the natural springs where water flows year round (yes, in the desert!).
Pine Creek
This one takes you on another type of hike that is common to the area. We enjoy this one and the others like it (Ice Box, First Creek, Lost Creek) because toward the end it feels like a “choose your own adventure” and you can scramble around boulders to go as far as you’d like.
Calico Tanks
Type: Out and Back
Elevation Gain: 406 Feet
Alltrails >> https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/nevada/calico-tanks-trail
A true delight and one we like to go on with family and friends visiting. The ultimate treat is the gorgeous view of the Las Vegas Strip and the Calico Hills at the end.
Red Springs
.5 Miles
Type: Loop
Elevation: 52 ft
Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/red-springs-boardwalk
One day, we accidentally forgot BOTH baby carriers and realized they were not in the car until we where right in Red Rock. Not willing to turn around, we enjoyed walking a few laps around the Red Springs Trail. The trail is about .5 miles long and stroller/wheelchair friendly!
Turtle Head Peak
4.6 Miles
Type: Out and Back
Elevation: 1,988 ft
Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/turtlehead-peak-trail
Such a great trail if you’re looking for a challenge and one that will take up half a day. This is a good winter hike, but probably not best to go too early in the morning, as it can get cold at the Peak!
- Check out our 1-day itinerary for an amazing day in Las Vegas!
- Find more hikes and trails you might fall in love with.