“Red Rock’s not just a name, it’s a warning, a welcome, and a memory carved in stone.”
Just west of Las Vegas, where the city noise fades into the open desert, the cliffs start glowing. Bright rust red, deep ochre, and sun bleached white swirl through canyons shaped over 500 million years. Here, tucked into this rugged terrain, is a place that has always drawn life, human, animal, and ancient.
The land has stories to tell: petroglyphs left behind by the Southern Paiute people, miners, ranchers, and traders who once followed these trails, and fossils of creatures that walked here long before we did. Red Rock Canyon is still a refuge for bighorn sheep, wild burros, and anyone who needs a break from neon lights.
Why visit? Because it is close to Vegas but feels like another world. Because red rock at sunset is a kind of magic. And because this canyon shows just how much silence can say.
Your self guided GPS audio tour takes you through the 13 mile scenic loop with location aware stories and insights, so you can focus on the views without missing the meaning.
On your drive, you’ll:
Stop at the fiery Calico Hills, shaped by wind, water, and time.
Find a quiet moment at the Calico Hills Bonus Viewpoint, hidden just off the road.
Explore the Sandstone Quarry, once bustling with industry.
Catch a glimpse of desert wildlife near High Point Overlook.
Visit the Petroglyph Wall, marked with ancient symbols.
Walk through shadow and cool air in Ice Box Canyon.
Spot unexpected green along Pine Creek Trail, where birds love to linger.
End at the wide-open Red Rock Overlook, with one last unforgettable view.
Quick heads-up: Watch the rocks. They change color depending on the time of day. So if you can, drive slow and maybe drive it twice.
NOTE: Learn more about the admission fees, road conditions, and other pertinent information.
Update:
From October to May, a timed entry permit is required for all vehicles on Red Rock Canyon’s Scenic Drive between 8 AM and 5 PM. Visit recreation.gov to book your spot.
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Tour Map
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Starting Point
You can join the route at any point or start from the suggested starting location listed below.
Red Rock Canyon Fee Station, Las Vegas, NV 89161, USA
Begin from Red Rock Canyon Fee Station, Las Vegas, NV 89161, USA.
How Does It Work?
- Access your tour: Download the Action Tour Guide app and sign in with the same email used for your website purchase. Your tour will appear under My Tours.
- Download your tour: Download it before you go. Once downloaded, no internet or cell signal is needed.
- Start your tour: Open My Tours, select your tour, and tap Start Touring when you reach a starting point.
- Listen your way: Use your phone’s speaker or headphones, or connect to your car’s audio system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not currently supported, compatibility is in development.
- GPS-triggered audio: Stories play automatically as you reach each location along the route.
- Stop and start anytime: Pause, take a break, make a detour, or continue another day. Tours are valid forever (one year for Action+).
Red Rock Canyon Audio Tour
Things to do on the Tour Include:
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Welcome
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Visitor Center
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Calico Hills
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Calico Hills Bonus Viewpoint
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Sandstone Quarry Overlook
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Mammals of Red Rock Canyon
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Conservation History
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High Point Overlook
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Bighorn Sheep
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Mule Deer
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Mountain Lions
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Human History in Red Rock Canyon
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Hoover Dam
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Petroglyphs and Pictographs
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Ancient Puebloans
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Ice Box Canyon Trail
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Red Rock Wash Overlook
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Golden Eagles
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Pine Creek Trailhead
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Fossils of the Canyon
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Wildfire
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The Mojave Desert
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Red Rock Canyon Overlook
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Red Rock Canyon is known for its stunning red rock formations, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The canyon gets its name from the vibrant red sandstone formations that dominate the landscape.
The Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive typically takes about 30-45 minutes to drive without stops, but many visitors spend several hours exploring the area.
Yes, the scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the canyon’s geological wonders and is definitely worth experiencing.
The early morning or late afternoon is often recommended for the best lighting and cooler temperatures when visiting Red Rock Canyon.
Source: Red Rock Canyon Only
Yes, the scenic drive is paved, making it accessible to most vehicles.
Red Rock Canyon opens daily at 6:00 AM, but it’s advisable to check the official website for any updates on opening hours.
Yes, the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive is a one-way road loop.
Yes, Red Rock Canyon is home to diverse wildlife, including desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, and various bird species.
Yes, the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive is worth it for the breathtaking views, photo opportunities, and a chance to experience the desert’s natural beauty.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Action Tour Guide app: Download the app to access your purchased tour.
GPS-triggered audio: Stories and directions play automatically as you reach each location.
Tour anytime: Single tours and bundles never expire and can be used anytime. Action+ is an annual subscription that automatically renews each year unless canceled.
Narrated stories: Hear local history, culture, and stories from experienced narrators.
Stop and start anytime: Pause, take a break, make a detour, or continue another day.
Offline access: Download your tour before you go. Once downloaded, no internet or cell signal is needed.
Stories, stops, and directions: Follow the route to key attractions with automatic directions and stories at each location.
Transportation: Transportation, parking fees, and tolls are not included.
Admission: Entry tickets and reservations are not included.
Food and drinks: Meals and drinks are not included.
Rental car: A rental car is not included and may be required for driving tours.
