White Rock Loop

Overview: This hike at Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas, Nevada is a study in contrast. You are always in the Mojave Desert, but it looks markedly different depending on your elevation and the amount of precipitation the area gets.

With the White Rock Loop, you see typical desert plants. On the west side of the mountain, hidden from the Scenic Drive, is a hidden forest of juniper and pinyon. It's a great contrast to the barren east side.

Tips: If you want to get the elevation part of the hike over quicker, hike clockwise from the picnic area.  You will have the elevation gain compressed into a shorter distance.  Once at the saddle, most of the hike is downhill from there.

It's best to have hiking boots and not expect to do this hike with sneakers. A backpack with a plenty of water is necessary for desert hydration.

I generally hike with shorts and this hike doesn't require hiking pants.

There is a small water source near the trail and bighorn sheep are seen periodically here. It depends sometimes on how many people have been on trail already and what time of day you go. Always keep your eyes open as you scan the sandstone cliffs. Generally you don't see bighorn sheep unless they move.