Redrock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada 2021
Red Rock is an area inhabited by Native Americans for around 11 to 13 thousand years by various cultures (some unknown to us). Evidence of their occupation in the form of pottery, burn pits, and petroglyphs provide archaeologists the proof of their cultures.Arrival
It's surprisingly close on Highway 159 west of Las Vegas (you can see it from The Strip). Make a reservation these days, numbers allowed are limited.The Canyon
As you get into the canyon and past the Visitors' Center, it becomes pretty obvious why it's called Redrock Canyon. Stunning high-iron content sandstone that rusted over millions of years create stark contrasts between strata levels. Mesmerizing.Summary
15 minutes from Vegas, Redrock Canyon feels like pure isolation and backcountry with barely a modern element to be seen, really an awesome wilderness.Supposedly also populated by wild horses and burros, I didn't see any of those. I did see cacti. That doesn't really count though.
Climbing and hiking for those of all skill levels, but you need to be prepared. This is a place you can die on a 2 hour hike in the summer if you haven't brought the correct supplies with you.
A great escape from the city and all that is "Vegas" if you know what I mean. I rather enjoyed this quite a bit.
Comments
- 2021-04-15
Very cool Rob!
Dan