"Journey Through Red Rock Canyon" Nevada Travelogue by goingsolo

The day after an unusually strong November cold front, a thin layer of snow blankets the ground. The surrounding mountains are practically covered with white powder, making this area appear more like Colorado than dry desert Nevada.

Red Rock Canyon

This day's visit is actually during the tail end of the storm. Snow has become a light intermittent rain, but its 35 degrees and the grayish sky appears ready to let loose.

Red Rock Canyon

We hiked up a ways to get to the first rockwall. The picture is not as clear as I'd hoped, but, from this vantage point, the green and white-dotted valley contrasting with the red rocks was spectacular.

Red Rock Canyon

Its a steep climb to near the top of this formation where some of the more popular and easiest climbs begin. Its hard to see in the picture, and on this less than ideal day, but views extend to the Las Vegas Strip, which is about 20 miles away. I was told that, on a better day, you can see the distinctive shapes of the casinos from here. I'm not sure why you would want to, as the purpose for coming out here is to leave that behind, but it adds to the surreal condition of being surrounded by natural beauty mere miles away from the most unnatural and artificial setting.

Red Rock Canyon

The sun is finally coming out and snow is melting fast. That's the same valley which, only hours before, was covered in snow.

Red Rock Canyon

Even if you're not a climber or an aspiring one, I'd recommend taking the short but steep hike up one of the walls. There's a trail leading up here and the breathtaking view is worth the modest exertion.

Red Rock Canyon

Later in the day, the snow is almost entirely gone. It changes the view just a bit, but its stil beautiful.

Red Rock Canyon

The climbing wall. Known as the "Panty Wall." Interesting choice of words. Apparently, the first one to climb this route gets to name it.