This trail was very fun and great for beginners! My boyfriend and I wanted to see an amazing view at the end of a hike and this is definitely the trail to provide just that.
Navigating to the park was easy when using Google Maps. The only thing I didn't know was that once you arrive you have to pay a parking fee. It was $7 per vehicle, which is not bad at all, I just didn't know about it. Once you pay the person at the booth they give you a map which shows where each trail is. The Calico Tanks is the 3rd pit stop on Scenic Dr.
The beginning of the hike is about 1.5 miles of flat gravel and was very easy. It felt like a stroll. About 20 minutes in you start to climb up rocks gradually.
About halfway the climb gets a bit more intense, but it's not too difficult since most of the climbs have stone steps. We got the to "tank" and there was no water in it sadly so you climb in the dried bed and walk up to the rock platform where you see the amazing view. You can see all the way to the strip. I'm scared of heights usually but I actually sat on the edge of the rock looking down the whole mountain. It was such a peaceful end.
The hike back was not hard at all. I definitely wasn't breathing as hard as I was getting up there. It also felt like it took half the time. The trail is pretty busy as well. All the hikers are very friendly and encouraging though!
The total amount of time it took us was 2 hours exact round trip. Not too shabby.
TIPS:
- Wear athletic clothes. I saw a few people wearing jeans and I felt a little bad for them.
- Wear shoes with a good grip.
- Bring at least a liter of water per person.