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 Reporter |
Summary: Although very short, this is a very pleasant hike. Almost the entire route lined with rocks so it is (almost) impossible to wander off the trail. After crossing the (normally dry) washbed, you enter the brush and vegetation. If you visit in the early spring (Mar - Apr), this area is filled with blooming Western Red Bud trees - which are brilliant fuchsia/pink and a real contrast to the other vegetation. Also, there is a band of burros which live in Willow Springs area and walk down the wash (which this trail crosses) every morning towards Icebox, and then work their way back up the wash at the end of the day -- if you go early and keep you eyes/ears open, you'll likely see the burros or hear them braying. Remember to not approach the burros and NEVER touch or feed them. There are benches and viewing platforms along this trail and interpretive signage helps visitors to be aware of what they're enjoying. Be sure and haul trash out. The waterfall is seasonal. Trailhead: 18 miles W of Las Vegas Blvd. on Charleston Ave. (SR 159) to Red Rock entry (fee) station. Follow the signs along the 13 mile scenic loop, turning R towards Willow Springs, parking at the first parking lot; which is for Lost Creek (vault RR & signs). There are 2 trails (& signage) leading from the Lost Creek parking - one is for the Children's Discovery Loop and the other takes you past the turnoff to SMYC and towards Lost Creek canyon itself. Don't worry if you take the Children's Discovery trail instead -- they'll both end up at the waterfall, or grotto area. If you have Grandma or small children with you and you can only do 1 short hike while at Red Rock, this should probably be the one. If it's been raining, this is DEFINITELY the one hike to do. When the waterfall is flowing, it is visible from the parking lot (use a glass if you can't see it) - which is nice for the visitor to Red Rock who can't hike at all. (Lat:36.15703 Lon:-115.49398) Trail Guides for Lost Creek Grotto: Keystone Hiking Trails Information by BLM - Red Rock NCA (BLM - Red Rock NCA) Hiking Around Las Vegas by Jim Boone (Jim L. Boone) Hiking Las Vegas by Branch Whitney (Branch Whitney) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Red Rock (BLM) ranger at entry to NCA (fee station) 702-515-5950 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Kat Green, who has posted 86 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by A. Riedel on 2/13/2005 I would have given this a five-star rating (which I would normally never do for such a short hike) but there were loads of people. I mistakenly thought it might be less travelled since it is off the main scenic drive. However, it is mentioned in the guide paper, but the throngs do not really detract. However, it was a Saturday, and with all the recent rains, the falls are spectacular, and are not to be missed. I went with my wife and mother in law. We had a great time and a short walk. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Nevada Hiking, Nevada Trails, Nevada Hikes, Clark County Hiking, Clark County Trails, Clark County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||