Escape to Red Rock Canyon (Sights & Attractions in Las Vegas in general)

Member Name: doyoureally

Product:	Sights & Attractions in Las Vegas in general
Date:	11/03/03 (599 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Nature & Tranquility, No slot machines, So close to vegas

Disadvantages: Need a car to get there really, No slot machines for those who can't live without, Midday heat

Even the most hardened Vegas-addict needs the occasional break from the fast flow of neon, dollars and anything else that you want. Vegas offers everything man has created and that comes in abundance.

What is somewhat less available, but my soul begins to crave after around 72 hours is a little immersion in nature. So if you feel the same - then fear not an escape to Red Rock Canyon could be just what you are after.


What is Red Rock?
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No it has no relation to that alcohol in a bottle - but by contrast, it is red and it does have rocks in it!

Set in the Mojave Desert, this canyon is full of living things. Look overhead and you will often see a predatory bird scanning the valley floor for lunch. Petrified sand dunes are testament to the longevity and unchanged nature of the canyon. There is much more to see & is described below.

The canyon is encircled by a Scenic Highway, which enjoys the clever aspect of being a long one-way route. A car is the best way to see this - stopping frequently to take in a fresh vista. If you are fit - then cycling the route is also possible.

But, however you do thing - remember this is a desert and you should take careful note of the advice, rules and regulations.


Where?
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Red Rock Canyon is 17 miles West of the Strip.

If you are heading there by car then take Charleston Boulevard / Highway 159 (it's the same road) and head right on out of town.

Eventually, the canyon is signposted on the familiar brown style sign to the right.


When?
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You can visit the canyon year round - but beware the summer heat can take temperatures soaring above 100 degrees. The kind of warmth that makes the rattlesnakes more lively! With around 294 days of sunshine per year and an average temperature of 66.3 °F only 4.13 inches of rain fall. Winter can even see snow and ice in the canyon.

The b
est t

ime to go whatever time of year is when the sun is coming up or going down - it is nature's light on the many varied shades of rock that gives the canyon it's unique wonder. Take note of park opening times accordingly.

"The Scenic Drive is open:
Winter: ( Nov 1 through Feb 28/29) 6 am- 5 PM
Spring ( March 1- March 31) 6 am -7 PM
Summer ( April 1- Sept 30) 6 am - 8 PM
Fall ( Oct 1- Oct 31) 6 am- 7 PM

The Visitor Center hours:
Winter ( Nov 1- March 31) 8 am to 430 pm
Summer( April 1- Oct 31) 8 am to 530 pm"


More about the Canyon
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D o not leave the beaten trail. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On your circular drive round the canyon - take your time as you cannot go backwards! What's the rush? The canyon offers a plethora of natural flora and fauna including:-

BURROS - You will frequently see burros at the roadside stops. Burros have long ears, a short mane and attain a height of up to 5 feet. They vary in colour from grey to black to brown. Incredibly hardy and suited to desert life, they can lose as much as 30% of their body weight in water, and replace it in only 5 minutes drinking.

They are wild creatures are NOT harmless - so do not approach. We too are a danger to them - many are killed on the roads which the approach because some idiots feed them. It is simply best to view, snap and enjoy them from your car.

BIRDS - the are numerous birds that can be seen - but be quiet if you wan to see any! Kids will be fascinated to witness a real life roadrunner. Meanwhile hawks patrol the skies. I have elected no to list the 100 or so species but details can be obtained from the Visitor Centre.

MAMMALS - I did not see that many bigger animals but apparently mule deer, desert bighorn, foxes and coyotes roam the desert.

PLANTS - The desert floor is encrusted in moss and lichen that protect the soils from wind and
rain erosi
on. Th
e arid and extreme temperature swings of the desert do not deter an abundant variety of shrubs, brushes, cacti and trees from making home in various parts of the canyon. Their adaptation to this environment is stunning.

ACTIVITIES - there are a number of licensed activities that can be undertaken including Mountain bikes, jeep tours, hikes, horseback rides. Details of these are again available at the entrance or often in the leaflet racks of every self-respecting Vegas restaurant.


Summary
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All in the entire canyon presents a simple, nearby break from the Vegas buzz. I would rate this as between an afternoon and a full day depending on your interest in the wildlife or an activity. There is not much out here though - so bring food and drink in plentiful supply.

And those who don't enjoy some tranquillity -will benefit from twice the buzz when they return to their casino hotels.

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