*** good for a scenic drive or an easy-moderate day hike ***
OVERALL
The Willow Springs Loop is a neat area within Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area approximately 21 miles from downtown Las Vegas, NV.
ENVIRONMENT
This is desert terrain. I loved all the red rocks, rock formations, and the various mostly visible archaeological resources. Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and walking shoes. For the most part, I was able to have cell phone reception with T-Mobile/Sprint, but there are definitely areas where it was non-existent.
SERVICE
Welcoming staff at the fee station. Make sure to ask for a map or pick one up at the visitor center.
MY FAVORITE PART...
The preserved history and beautiful rocks.
NOT SO FAVORITE PART...
Mid-afternoons in June are sweltering.
THE AREA
After a horseback ride at the nearby Cowboy Trail Rides (6/8/21), my in-laws drove us over to the Willow Springs Loop area to enjoy our packed lunch and refresh for an easy hike.
There are non-shaded picnic tables available. It gets fairly windy at times. Trash cans are aplenty. Please pack it in, pack it out.
Dogs are allowed in some areas.
I would have loved to have seen some bighorn sheep, but didn't this go-round.
We didn't do much hiking in this area because my in-laws recommended a children's trail up the road instead. We did walk up part of the trail some where we picnicked, though. My youngest daughter thought the agave roasting pits were cool. Proud of her for reading most of the information board about them!
PARKING
There is plenty of free parking near the trails.
TIPS
+ The paved road going into the entire park is one-way and not high speed at all. One big loop. Be patient with the many first-time tourists.
+ There is wheelchair accessibility or so the signs say.
+ There are outhouse restrooms in several stopping points, including the Willow Spring Picnic Area.
| Area: 4 | Service: 4 | Environment: 4 | Price: 4 | read more