Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nature reserve west of Las Vegas, United States
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a nature reserve west of Las Vegas in Clark County, United States, covering nearly 80,000 hectares of desert. The landscape features sandstone cliffs rising up to 3,000 feet (900 meters) from the desert floor, forming a series of narrow canyons.
The Bureau of Land Management designated the area as Nevada's first National Conservation Area in 1990. Archaeological evidence shows people have lived in the region for at least 11,000 years.
The name comes from iron oxide deposits that give the sandstone its deep red color, especially visible at sunrise and sunset. Many hikers pause at marked petroglyph sites to view hand-carved symbols left on the rock faces.
The 13-mile scenic drive between October and May requires advance booking with a timed entry permit. Water, sun protection and sturdy footwear are essential, as summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F (38°C).
More than 600 plant species grow here despite the dry climate, including several varieties of cacti and shrubs. Bighorn sheep move among the rocks during cooler morning hours, often visible from the main hiking trails.
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