A Short But Worth Reporting Run in Red Rock Canyon

I will start by saying that I hate Las Vegas.  However, due to business in town I found myself at a resort in Henderson, NV.  So while everyone else was drawn into  The Strip with all its gaudy lights and glamor I was drawn 30 minutes east to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory.


What surprises me about this place is that it is so close and visible from Las Vegas; however, I think is one of the unspoiled treasurers of the Southwest.

Of course I wanted to cover as much as I could in the short window after work and darkness.  What is funny about this though is that when you enter the Conservatory you are given a map with exaggerated hiking times.  I focused in on Calico Tanks trail which really a reedy large pond at the end.  This is a pretty technical trail with the occasional climb over a boulder or two.  The trail map said to expect covering the 2.5 mile round trip trail in over two hours.  Huh?  OK, that's more than an easy challenge to take.

The Calico Tanks

What makes this trail runnable is the many rock "steps" that if you are paying attention to will get you to the top.

I would have to say this is one of the most beautiful places I have laid my eyes on.  With the Spring Mountains due east, there is a wonderful contrast to each zone.

Once I got to the pool, I did a little more exploring before heading back.  Thanks to Strava, I kind of figured there would be  a segement to place, and of course I wanted to place better than the bottom.  

The run back down went quick and I enjoyed every moment of it.  I suppose if I hadn't taken as many pictures I would have gotten down sooner.  Oh well.

Just before  I got back to the car, I took another trail so that I could get at least 3.5 miles.  In all it took me just longer than an hour.

If the casinos are not your style, I would recommend the visit.