Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive
Road cycling
5.0
(11)
Cycling
5.0
(7)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Tips
October 26, 2023
Cycling
April 14, 2022
Road cycling
•December 25, 2023
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive
5.0
(2)
379
riders
46.0km
02:18
670m
670m
Embark on the Calico Basin and Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop from Charleston Blvd for a moderate racebike ride through stunning desert landscapes. This route covers 28.6 miles (46.0 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 2190 feet (667 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 17 minutes to complete. As you cycle, you will pass vivid sandstone formations and towering Aztec red cliffs, with the unique Calico Hills providing a memorable visual backdrop.
When planning your visit, remember there is an entrance fee for the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It is crucial to carry plenty of water and apply sunscreen, especially if you are riding during the warmer months. Always be aware of the potential for flash flooding in certain seasons, which can impact your ride.
This route takes you through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, a region known for its ancient sand dunes that have been frozen in time to form the distinctive Calico Hills. You will experience the vastness of the desert near Las Vegas, with views of landmarks like Turtlehead Peak and the expansive La Madre Mountains Ridgeline along the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive.
5.0
(1)
157
riders
58.2km
02:48
770m
770m
Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure through the stunning desert landscape of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. This route covers 36.1 miles (58.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2528 feet (770 metres), taking you about 2 hours and 48 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you will pass vibrant red rock formations like the Calico Hills and the towering La Madre Mountains, offering a dramatic contrast to the distant Las Vegas skyline. Keep an eye out for iconic desert plants such as Joshua Trees and cholla cacti that dot the terrain. The experience is a rewarding challenge for any road cyclist.
Before you set out, be aware that an entrance fee of $3 to $5 per bike is usually required to enter the Scenic Loop. While vehicles need timed entry reservations from October through May, cyclists typically do not. If you plan to ride during the summer, be prepared for extreme heat; temperatures can easily exceed 110°F. Always carry plenty of water, as there are no water sources available on the loop itself past the visitor center.
This road cycling route is a classic choice for those seeking a substantial desert ride near Las Vegas. You will experience panoramic views from the Red Rock Canyon Overlook, showcasing the vast desert and even glimpses of the city. The area is known for its unique geology, with striking red rock formations that stand out against the desert floor. It offers a distinct natural escape from the urban environment.
172
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 19.2 km
Uphill 440 m
Downhill 410 m
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Wednesday 6 May
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11°C
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Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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