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A popular out-and-back trail through sandstone formations to an overlook of the city and the Las Vegas strip.


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Map Key

2.3

Miles

3.7

KM

88%

Runnable

4,711' 1,436 m

High

4,321' 1,317 m

Low

390' 119 m

Up

390' 119 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (4°)

21%

Max Grade (12°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Views

Overview

One of the most popular trails in Red Rock Park, this trail weaves through the white and red sandstone that dominates the area. Several small, seasonal pools of water are passed along the way until the biggest is encountered right before the overlook.

Description

Calico Tanks is an out-and-back trail that begins at the Sandstone Quarry trailhead inside the Red Rock scenic loop.

To begin, follow the main trail from the parking area across, and then alongside, a wash. The trail will fork; follow the trail on the right as it quickly makes its way into an open canyon. From here, keep following the the canyon up.

Most of the time it is easy to see the trail, however, sometimes the route will take you up sandstone steps and onto large slabs where it can be slightly more difficult to navigate. Generally, if you get to an obstacle that cannot be easily maneuvered around, take a few steps back and look for a set of sandstone steps.

About one mile into the canyon you'll reach the largest 'tank,' which may or may not be filled with water. If there is no water or the water level is low, it is possible to descend into the tank and work your way across the natural basin before scrambling back up the rocks to get to the overlook. The more common route follows a path up and to the right of the tank before if finally leads you to the overlook.

Take a minute to enjoy 360° view of the Las Vegas valley and Red Rock Canyon before heading back the same way you journeyed in.

Shared By:

Kristen Evans with improvements by Finn Markmanrud

Trail Ratings

  4.7 from 59 votes

#150

Overall
  4.7 from 59 votes
5 Star
76%
4 Star
22%
3 Star
2%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Nevada

#150

Overall
63 Views Last Month
9,015 Since Nov 10, 2016
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

0%
6%
59%
13%
22%
0%

Photos

Spring colors in the desert canyons.
Apr 23, 2017 near Summerl…, NV
Calico Tanks views.
Nov 10, 2016 near Summerl…, NV
The End
Sep 11, 2018 near Summerl…, NV
Calico Tanks Trail
Oct 25, 2018 near Summerl…, NV
As seen on the hill top, scrambling is endless at the Calico Tanks.
Apr 23, 2017 near Summerl…, NV
Red Rock Canyon is home to many interesting rock formations.
Mar 31, 2017 near Summerl…, NV

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All Clear 19 days ago
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Check-Ins

Jan 19, 2020
Veronica Gerhard
Sep 11, 2018
Justice Stevens
Aug 22, 2018
josh sturman
Beautiful trail and views 3mi
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