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| - I've been to the paid entry area of Red Rock Canyon many times, but now I go to Calico Basin whenever I'm in town (regardless of how hot or cold it is), which is FREE! If you drive all the way up Calico Basin Road off of Charleston Blvd. (just a couple of miles), you'll end up at Calico Basin Red Springs, which has a picnic area, restrooms and a number of hiking options.
For me, I make the turn onto Calico Basin Road, but I pull over to the side and park (on a dirt shoulder) after driving about a half of a mile (give or take). At that point, to the right side of the road, you'll see an unmarked mini trailhead (where you may see a car or two parked). I take the trail going uphill to the left (which is still located on the right side of the road). A local may have a name for the trail. You'll crest a hill after about a quarter mile. From there, while still an unmarked trail, you head back towards the mountains (think obvious big Red Rock formations).
There is a canyon visible from the top of the hill (in a northerly direction) where rock climbers go. You can also pick a route using your own orienteering skills (and being highly sensitive of the flora and fauna) around larger rock formations. An out an back hike to the canyon area is about 4 to 5 miles, depending upon how far in you go, and it may take you 2 to 3 hours of hike time.
For me, as a regular visitor to Las Vegas, this hike is a great way to clear my head and help justify all the other excesses I may partake in on the strip or elsewhere in town. Cheers!
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