Red Rock Canyon Las Vegas

Southern Nevada Fire Restrictions Order Announced

LAS VEGAS – On June 8, 2024 the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, Clark County, Moapa Valley Fire Protection District, Mesquite Fire Rescue, Mt. Charleston Fire Protection District, National Park Service, Nevada Division of Forestry, Nye County, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and USDA Forest Service are implementing fire restrictions in Southern Nevada.

Interagency fire restrictions prohibit:
Setting, building, maintaining, attending, or using open fire of any kind is prohibited, except campfires within approved fire pits and grills provided for in developed recreation sites. Controlled flame devices such as portable stoves and lanterns with shut-off valves, using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed.
Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or camp trailer, or while stopped or standing in a three-foot diameter area barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
Operating or parking a vehicle or other motorized equipment over or on top of dried/cured vegetation.
Any Hot Work involving electric or gas welding, cutting, brazing, or similar flame or spark-producing operations.
Recommended Actions:
Have a shovel, fire extinguisher and/or at least 5 gallons of water on hand in the event of an unintentional fire start.
Utilize nevadafireinfo.org to obtain information on fire activity and additional restrictions.
The following persons are exempt from this order:
Person with a permit specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act or omission.
Any federal, state, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force, in the performance of an official duty.

This Fire Prevention Order is effective 12:01 AM, on the 8th day of June 2024 and will remain in effect until the 31st day of December 2024, unless rescinded earlier.

VISIT NEVADAFIREINFO.ORG to see full restriction order information and helpful maps.

(Info continued in comment section)

📸: BLM/NIFC

🔥 Attention, adventurers! 🌵 Red Rock Canyon is currently under an excessive heat warning until Saturday evening. If you're planning a visit, remember to stay hydrated 💧 and bring plenty of water. Safety first, always! 🏜️

Red Rock Canyon NCA invites you to test your knowledge of the outdoors at Red Rock Trivia! Match wits with fellow adventurers in a pub-trivia-style setting while learning fun facts about the park's geology, history and biology. It will be a fun night of friendly competition while learning about the wonders of your public lands from 6:00 - 7:30 PM in the Visitor Center Amphitheater! 🤓🧠 🌄 Registration is encouraged but not required and can be done online here: redrockcanyonlvprograms.timetap.com/ #/

Reflecting on the solemn beauty of at Red Rock Canyon. Amidst nature's grandeur, we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. 🇺🇸

📸: S. Vanlancker

🌿💐 Looking for something to do with your mother on this Mother's Day? Show your love and appreciation by taking Mom on a memorable hike through our stunning public lands! It's not just a walk, but a chance to create memories together surrounded by nature's beauty.

Mt. Charleston-https://www.gomtcharleston.com/upcoming-events/
Red Rock Canyon-https://www.redrockcanyonlv.org/events
California Trails Interpretive Center-https://www.californiatrailcenter.org/upcoming-events/

👟🎒 If hitting the trails isn't an option, bring a piece of the great outdoors to her with a special gift from our online store. From eco-friendly gear to beautiful nature-inspired items, you're sure to find something that celebrates her spirit of adventure. https://shop.southernnevadaconservancy.org/

🌼 Celebrate Mother’s Day in the great outdoors or bring it home with a thoughtful gift. Either way, let’s make this day special for all the amazing mothers out there!

Come check us out the Southern Nevada Conservancy booth at the Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival today and learn about the amazing programs and opportunities at Red Rock Canyon and the Spring Mountains!

‼️CLOSURE ALERT FOR THIS SUNDAY 05/05/24‼️

BLM Announces Temporary Closure of Certain Public Lands at Red Rock Canyon NCA for L'Etape Las Vegas 2024

The Bureau of Land Management Red Rock/Sloan Field Office announces the temporary closure of certain public lands under its administration on May 5, 2024, from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. (PDT). This action is taken to minimize the risk of potential collisions with participants during L'Etape Las Vegas 2024.

The closure area includes the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area 13 Mile Scenic Loop Drive, which will be closed to all vehicles and personnel except law enforcement, emergency vehicles, event personnel, event participants, and Bureau of Land Management personnel. Access routes leading to the closed area will be signed to indicate a closure ahead. No vehicle stopping or parking in the closed area, except for designated parking areas, will be permitted. Event participants are required to remain within designated areas only, public spectators will not be allowed on the event route.
The following restrictions will be in effect for the duration of the closure. Unless otherwise authorized, the following activities within the closure area are prohibited:
• Public access to the Visitor Center within the closure area;
• Public use of Visitor Center restrooms;
• Public use of parking areas and restrooms within the closure area;
• Parking any vehicle in violation of posted restrictions, or in such a manner as to obstruct or impede normal or emergency traffic movement or the parking of other vehicles, create a safety hazard, or endanger any person, property, or feature. Vehicles so parked are subject to citation, removal, and impoundment at the owner's expense;
Operating a vehicle through, around, or beyond a restrictive sign, recognizable barricade, fence, or traffic control barrier or device;
The above restrictions do not apply to emergency vehicles and vehicles owned by the United States, the State of Nevada, or Clark County. Vehicles under permit for operation by event participants must follow the event permit stipulations.

Did you know that May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month? This Friday there will be a free guided hike lead by an Interpretive Naturalist celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage. Join us for a fun hike where you can learn about Red Rock Canyon’s geology, human history, flora and fauna, and discuss how these communities are underrepresented in nature, and what being a part of these communities means to you! Registration is required, to register please visit: https://redrockcanyonlvprograms.timetap.com/ #/ (https://redrockcanyonlvprograms.timetap.com/ #/) .

🌵☀️ Desert tortoises soaking up the sun at Red Rock Canyon! 🐢 It's a perfect day for these slow and steady creatures to explore their desert home. If you encounter them in the wild, let's give them space and respect their habitat.

Today, amidst the stunning backdrop of Red Rock Canyon, we celebrated a beautiful Naturalization Ceremony. Witnessing individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to officially become US citizens fills our hearts with joy and pride. Let’s extend a warm welcome to our new fellow Americans as they embark on this incredible journey of belonging and contributing to our vibrant community.

🎉 Happy National Handmade Day! 🎨 Today, we celebrate the creativity, craftsmanship, and love poured into handmade goods. Whether it's a cozy knit scarf, a beautifully crafted piece of pottery, a hand-sewn garment, or hand-drawn artwork, let's take a moment to appreciate the dedication and artistry of artisans everywhere.

Pictured here are a few of the wonderful colored pieces that showcase some of Red Rock Canyon’s beautiful flora and fauna, made by some talented visitors.

📸: S. Tuiofea

🌬️ Embracing the wind at Red Rock Canyon today! 💨 Nature's symphony of gusts adds an extra thrill to the stunning scenery. Who else loves the exhilarating breeze amidst those vibrant red rocks? 🏞️

We hope you’re having a Happy Easter! With the recent rain, our flora and fauna have received some much needed hydration! Pictured here is the Anemone tuberosa, also known as the Desert Anemone. You can find these beautiful wildflowers on rocky slopes throughout Red Rock Canyon. We kindly ask that you follow the important Leave No Trace principle - “Leave What You Find” when you come across the wildflowers in the area and refrain from picking them for your Easter bouquet 😊.

Visit our events calendar to join our team on an interpretive walk to learn more about our wildflowers at redrockcanyonlv.org/events

📸 S. Tuiofea

Today’s weather system brought a little graupel to the area. Graupel is a snowflake that collects supercooled water droplets on its way down to the surface. This changes the form of the snowflake into a snow pellet that is a little smaller and softer than hail.

Fortunately, the graupel is melting quickly, however we do recommend driving carefully since it may be slippery out there.

Head over to redrockcanyonlv.org to plan your visit, see local weather conditions, check out our events calendar, or shop at our online gift store!

📸 S. Vanlancker

Wishing everyone a happy First Day of Spring! As the weather gets warmer, you'll see some beautiful springtime blooms during your visit. Pictured here are some desert globemallow taking in the epic views.

With spring ushering in the warmer temps, make sure to come prepared for your visit by bringing plenty of water! We have a collection of high quality, reusable water bottles available for purchase in our online gift store at https://shop.southernnevadaconservancy.org/.

Photo Cred: L. Duvall

Join Interpretive Naturalists the second Monday of the month at Red Rock Canyon’s Visitor Center picnic tables anytime between 1pm-3pm for an Art in Nature program.
🎨 This program is free & doesn’t require registration. Check out our calendar for details about these & our many other programs:
https://www.redrockcanyonlv.org/event-calendar/

While we don’t have four-leaf clover in the Mojave Desert, we do have diverse flora that adds green to our landscape. This Beavertail Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia basilaris) thrives in our extreme desert conditions.

Fun fact: the flower from these cacti are a favorite snack of the desert tortoise!

Check our events calendar on redrockcanyonlv.org/events if you’re interested in learning more about our flora and fauna.

Mother Nature (and Turtlehead Peak) are showing off today! We’re expecting showers likely throughout the afternoon into Saturday, so make sure to pack some layers to enjoy your weekend visit. Our gift shop offers great gear to keep you warm on your hike and many of those items are available on our online store at: shop.SouthernNevadaConservancy.org

Join us Monday 3/11 for Art in Nature: Acrylic!
Spend some time outside, creating an acrylic painting of the escarpment by mixing primary colors together.
🎨 No registration necessary. For more information and future programs visit
https://www.redrockcanyonlv.org/events/art-in-nature-acrylic3-11-24-1pm-3pm/

Spring Break plans at Red Rock Canyon? Plan ahead!

March is Spring Break for many visitors at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. The nice weather and time off for schools around the country mean that you can expect more of a crowd than usual within the Scenic Drive. Here are seven tips from our rangers for visiting Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area during the busy season:

1. Make a reservation as soon as you can: Reservations (available at www.recreation.gov or 877-444-6777) are required to visit the Scenic Drive, all trails accessed via the Scenic Drive, and the visitor center between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. from October 1st to May 31st. Reservations can and do run out, so book early.

2. Avoid busy times of the day and week: If you can, try to come at times with less visitation. The busiest time of day is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and weekends are more crowded than weekdays. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the days with the lowest average visitation.

3. Plan ahead and prepare: Our website (https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/nevada/red-rock-canyon-national-conservation-area/planning-your-visit) is a great resource to help. You will find recreation opportunities, resources, and maps to help you prepare. We recommend printing or downloading a map, checking the weather to dress accordingly, and filling up on water before your visit!

4. Have a backup plan: Some parking lots are more likely to be full than others as they are popular climbing and hiking destinations. Calico II, Sandstone Quarry, Icebox Canyon, and Kraft Mountain will fill up early, so have a backup if you want to use any of these parking areas.

5. Take the path less traveled: Popular trails like Calico Tanks and Icebox Canyon offer great hiking experiences, but they will be far from quiet during the busy season. However, ranger favorites like Pine Creek Canyon, the White Rock-Willow Springs Loop, and Keystone Thrust will provide a much better chance for a peaceful hike and for possible wildlife sightings.

6. Get out and explore: Did you know that Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area covers over 197,000 acres? Only a tiny fraction of this is represented by the Scenic Drive! Popular remote areas of Red Rock Canyon include Cottonwood Valley, Late Night, Harris Springs, and Lovell Canyon.

7. Leave No Trace: With millions of visitors every year, everyone needs to do their part to keep Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area beautiful. You can help by staying on trail, by packing out all your trash (including dog waste!), and by leaving plants, animals, rocks, and artifacts exactly as you found them.

The clouds are certainly putting on a show already today! Winds are howling this morning sustaining at 50 mph, with gusts up to 75 mph. 50 degrees. Sprinkles here and there but the Scenic Drive is open so bundle up if you’re headed out 🌬️

📷 C Trump

Welcome to meteorological spring in the Mojave Desert, where winds whip and ravens… well, the ravens do their best to just hang on tight!
🌬️ If you planned to visit Red Rock Canyon this weekend, be prepared for high winds and even higher gusts 💨

📷 C Trump

You can help of invasive species by checking your shoes & tires for seeds!

Did you know that one of the Desert Southwest’s most iconic plants is not meant to be here?

The Russian thistle (Salsola tragus) is a woody annual plant native to the Eurasian steppe, but its tolerance for drought made it perfectly suited to the deserts and prairies of the American West. By the 1870s, it had become established in South Dakota, and by 1900 it had spread to 16 western states and Canada. This incredible success was largely due to its ability to disperse far and wide by rolling and tumbling, knocking seeds off with every bounce on its journey.

If you haven’t guessed by now, another common name for the Russian thistle is tumbleweed. Despite the songs, movies, and cartoons that prominently feature tumbleweeds, they are an invasive species! Like all invasive species, they compete with native species for resources like water and sunlight, but their namesake means of spread comes with some drawbacks for humans as well. Tumbleweeds collect in drainage ditches and arroyos and against buildings to create masses of dead, dry vegetation that can block the flow of water or catch fire at the slightest spark.

This week is Invasive Species Awareness Week, and you can learn more about tumbleweeds and other invasive species of the Mojave Desert by joining Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area for interpretive programs and a bio-blitz throughout the week! The bio-blitz will be conducted through iNaturalist, and you can join using the QR code on the image. To see all available programs, visit www.redrockcanyonlv.org/events.

Interpretive programs at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area are a free public service; however, programs that take place at the Visitor Center or any locations accessed via the Scenic Drive require an entry fee, and from October through May require a timed entry reservation from www.recreation.gov.