Red Rock Canyon

Set inside the Red Rock National Conservation Area, Red Rock Canyon is a network of impressive canyons and surreal rock formations that provide plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking and rock climbing, all within an easy distance from Las Vegas.
Keystone Thrust, one of the more popular spots for climbers, is made up of towering red sandstone peaks and walls that reach as high as 3,000 feet (910 meters). There's also La Madre Mountain, an 8,154-foot (2,485-meter) moderate climb that serves as an optimal spot for mountain biking.
Other highlights include Icebox Canyon, which is reached via an easy hike through the canyon and a bit of boulder-hopping to the top, and the Pine Creek Canyon oasis, a running creek surrounded by pine trees.

Practical Info

Red Rock Canyon is located inside of the Mojave Desert, on the border of Nevada and Arizona. It's about a 30-minute drive from Las Vegas.