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 Reporter |
Summary: Of all the many ways to enjoy Oak Creek, this one is my very favorite. In late winter, the snow melts up canyon and the lower creek is full of rushing water and snow patches. In early spring, the water level lowers and the days warm up, creating a multitude of small ponds and waterfalls. If we get April rains, the meadow areas along the lower creek fills with wildflowers and blooming cactus, making the most perfect natural desert garden, imaginable. Boulder hopping is a favorite pasttime along the creek, and the trail which winds over and across the creek, is rich, red soil, easy for both horses and hikers to follow. The Oak Creek band of wild burros follow their reliable paths up and down the canyon everyday, although most people miss them completely. Follow the foot path W along the S side of the creekbed, and you'll climb into the foothills with plenty of shady lunch spots to watch the climbers along the N wall (Rainbow), or the band of bighorn sheep behind. Trailhead: Red Rock Canyon is located 18 miles W of Las Vegas Blvd. on Charleston Ave. (SR 159). Go past the entry (fee) station/visitor's center and continue on SR159 past the Overlook (RR, pkg, picnic shades), and past the exit from loop road (horse corral). You will NOT be entering the fee area or the scenic loop. Look for the obvious 2-track (old jeep) trail heading W out of the canyon towards SR159. There are dirt pullouts and a walk-thru gate where this old jeep trail begins. Park on either side of the road, but be careful as you cross SR159, the speed limit is 60 mph, not to mention the bicycles whizzing by. Follow the old jeep trail past the intersection with the horse trail, and look for the well worn path and rock cairns taking you L (S) into the lower canyon - look for tree tops lining the creekbed. This path leads you through the lower canyon and into Oak Creek, crossing the creek several times. If you miss your turn off the jeep trail, there are more paths. (Lat:36.10308 Lon:-115.45004) Trail Guides for Oak Creek (old jeep trail): 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: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Horses, 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 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
