Gene’s Trail Map & GPX Download

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Common Questions

Distance:: 1.34 miles
Class:: Class 1
Dogs:: Ok
Type:: One Way
Difficulty:: Easy
Parking:: Ample parking on the street.
Restrooms:: No
Reception:: Probable
Access:: SR-159/ Red Rock Canyon Rd to Calico Basin Rd.
Good to Know:: Wonderful spot for both sunrise and sunsets.
Why:: Nice views of sections of The Strip and a challenging trail for cardio enthusiasts.
Wildlife Probability:: None
Trailhead coordinates:: 36.14605, -115.40479 — Map

Gene’s Trail is a scenic, lesser-traveled route tucked along the southern edge of the Calico Hills. Unlike the more popular trails starting near Red Spring or Kraft Mountain, Gene’s Trail offers a quiet, spacious feel—rolling terrain and an open desert backdrop that makes the Calico colors stand out even more dramatically. The trail undulates gently across low ridges and shallow washes, giving hikers a constant change of perspective without demanding much effort. Because of its position slightly away from the central hubs of the basin, it’s one of the few places where you can experience near-silence even on a busy weekend.

This is an excellent morning or sunset hike. At daybreak, the Calico Hills ignite into deep reds and golds; in the evening, the entire basin settles into soft lavender and peach tones as the sun drops behind the Rainbow Wilderness. Gene’s Trail also serves as a strategic connector, allowing hikers to build longer loops involving Kraft Mountain, Calico Basin, Ash Spring, Girl Scout, or Calico Overlook.

Gene’s Trail Stats

Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles one way (varies depending on connection points)
Elevation Gain: ~150–250 feet of gentle rolling ascent
Difficulty: Easy to Easy-Moderate
Mostly smooth trail with mild elevation changes; suitable for beginners but rewarding for all experience levels.

Gene’s Trail is a great choice for hikers looking for a peaceful experience with classic Calico views, and an essential piece of many of the most enjoyable loop combinations in the basin.