Calico Hills Trail

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The Calico Basin is the heart of Red Rock Canyon Las Vegas and undoubtedly the most popular. And the Calico Hills are of course a part of this landscape. It’s here where you’ll find the highest concentration of people and vehicles due to the low cost of entry and close proximity to the ever so rapidly expanding Las Vegas Valley. Rock climbing here is considered to fluctuate between the top two destinations globally. Crags, or rock climbing areas are heavily abundant throughout the 550 areas of climbing space. Among the utmost popular is perhaps Kraft Mountain.

The Calico Hills trail is one of the first attractions visitors find upon entering the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Scenic Loop. Renowned for its striking red and cream-colored sandstone formations, this area offers a variety of hiking opportunities that showcase the unique geology and vibrant landscapes of the region. The trail meanders through towering rock walls, narrow canyons, and open vistas, providing hikers with breathtaking views and numerous photo opportunities.

As you explore the Calico Hills trail, you'll encounter a diverse array of flora and fauna adapted to the desert environment. The trail's proximity to seasonal water sources supports pockets of greenery, including junipers, pinyon pines, and various desert shrubs. Wildlife enthusiasts may also spot lizards, birds, and small mammals that thrive in this habitat.

Calico Hills — A Geological Marvel

The Calico Hills are part of the larger Aztec Sandstone formation, which dates back to the Jurassic period. The distinctive banding and coloration of the rocks are the result of ancient sand dunes that were compacted and cemented over millions of years. Erosion has sculpted these formations into dramatic shapes, creating natural arches, spires, and cliffs that captivate visitors. Hiking the Calico Hills trail not only offers a chance to experience these geological wonders up close but also provides insight into the dynamic processes that have shaped the landscape over time.

The Calico Basin contains roughly 108 acres of saturated land from ground or surface water. The delineation of these wetlands to drier uplands are known as riparian areas and make up 82 acres. Nearly 36 miles are comprised of streams. Approximately 34 miles of streams are ephemeral. These are the prime water sources amid the Calico Basin.

To no surprise, these riparian areas provide more life compared to land with less of thereof. The remaining two miles of streams are intermittent and responsible for three springs. Calico Spring boasts a higher rate of biodiversity than Ash Spring and is a nearby home to the endangered and red listed white bear poppy. Red Spring is a quaint wet and saline ridden meadow. Geology, ecology, or just fun in the sun hiking—the Calico Hills trail is an anomalous adventure. Even among hiking in Las Vegas.