![]() ![]() ![]() Some 45 million years later, the region was buried beneath thousands of feet of windblown sand. ![]() As the waters receded, sea creatures died, and the calcium in their bodies combined with sea minerals to form limestone cliffs studded with ancient fossils. Massive fault action and volcanic eruptions caused this seabed to begin rising some 225 million years ago. Cliffs cut by deep canyons tower 2,000 feet above the valley floor.ĭuring most of its history, Red Rock Canyon was below a warm, shallow sea. And formations, such as Calico Hill, are brilliantly white where groundwater has leached out oxidized iron. Orange and green lichens add further contrast, as do spring-fed areas of lush foliage. Over eons, the forces of nature have formed Red Rock’s sandstone monoliths into arches, natural bridges, and massive sculptures painted in a stunning palette of gray-white limestone and dolomite, black mineral deposits, and oxidized minerals in earth-toned sienna hues ranging from pink to crimson and burgundy. The geological history of these ancient stones goes back some 600 million years. The center is open daily from 8am to 4:30pm. It features outdoor exhibits on the flora and fauna found in the canyon and you can also pick up information on trails and the driving route. Just off NV 159, you’ll see the turnoff for the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center, (tel 702/515-5350), which marks the actual entrance to the park. There are picnic areas along the drive and in nearby Spring Mountain Ranch State Park (tel 702/594-7529 5 miles south, which also offers plays in an outdoor theater during the summer. Especially notable is 7,068-foot Mount Wilson, the highest sandstone peak among the bluffs for information on climbing, contact the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center at tel 702/515-5350. The National Conservation Area offers hiking trails and internationally acclaimed rock-climbing opportunities. There are many interesting sights and trail heads along the drive itself. You can drive the panoramic 13-mile Scenic Drive (daily 6am–dusk, $7 per vehicle) or explore more in-depth on foot, making it perfect for athletes and armchair types alike. Less than 20 miles away-but a world apart-this is a magnificent, unspoiled vista that should cleanse and refresh you (and if you must, a morning visit should leave you enough time for an afternoon’s gambling). If you need a break from the casinos of Vegas, Red Rock Canyon is balm for your overstimulated soul. ![]()
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