Red Rock Canyon, Nevada

Red Rock Canyon, Tel. 702/363-1921,  provides families a nice counterpoint to the neon bustle of Las Vegas. Only a few miles west of the city, the canyon is named for its brilliant sandstone formations, a naturally-occurring display of gaudy colors and shapes. Part of the Spring Mountain range, the canyon’s colors range from red to white, with contrasting bands of gray and brown. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area features miles of scenic drives and a wide assortment of hiking trails.

The dramatic juxtaposition of different colors in the canyon is the result of a geologic phenomenon called a thrust fault.  Millions of years ago two tectonic plates were jammed together with the softer rock in effect wrapping around the older, harder stone.

A good place to begin is at the Red Rock Canyon Visitor’s Center. Kids will especially enjoy the hands-on displays which demonstrate the ecology and geology of the area and also the outdoor Desert Tortoise Habitat which features several of the endangered species. Personnel at the Visitor’s Center, administered by the Bureau of Land Management, will be able to advise you on the best places to drive, hike, picnic, and take photos.

Some of the best hikes center around the area known as the Calico Hills, named for their wild color scheme. Several trails lead to excellent points from which to view or photograph the surrounding landscapes. Watch for the wild burros!