Quick Facts:

Location: Red Rock Canyon

Coordinates: 36.150223210915286, -115.48375803774753

Length: 2 Miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 400’

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

If you’re looking for a cool and refreshing hike in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Ice Box Canyon Trail is the perfect escape. Unlike the open desert trails filled with sun and heat, this shady canyon adventure leads into a narrow gorge with towering rock walls that trap cool air, making it a great place to beat the heat.

In the cooler months, you might even find a seasonal waterfall at the end of the trail. The mix of rugged rock scrambling, towering cliffs, and shady pockets of green vegetation makes this hike feel like a secret hideaway in the Mojave Desert.

If you’re looking for something challenging yet rewarding, Ice Box Canyon is a must-visit!

How to Get There:

Red Rock Canyon is just 17 miles west of Las Vegas, an easy drive from the Strip. Take West Charleston Boulevard (NV-159) and follow the signs to the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive.

There is an entrance fee of $15 per vehicle, or you can use an America the Beautiful Pass for access. Since Red Rock Canyon has a timed entry system, it’s best to reserve your pass online in advance, especially on weekends.

Parking Information:

The Ice Box Canyon Trailhead is located about 7 miles into the Scenic Loop Drive. The parking lot is small but usually not as crowded as other popular trailheads. Arriving early in the morning gives you the best chance of finding a spot and enjoying a peaceful hike.

The Landscape:

Ice Box Canyon is one of the most unique hikes in Red Rock Canyon because it feels completely different from the surrounding desert. Instead of wide-open red rock formations, this trail takes you into a deep, narrow canyon with towering sandstone walls that block out much of the sunlight.

The trail starts in an open desert wash, but as you move deeper into the canyon, the temperature drops, and you’ll notice lush pockets of green plants, shady alcoves, and even moisture clinging to the rocks. In the winter and spring, if there’s been enough rainfall, you might even see a waterfall at the end of the trail!

Even without water, the final destination is breathtaking, a towering rock amphitheater with cool, shaded rock formations perfect for resting and enjoying the scenery.

Trail Difficulty & Length:

Ice Box Canyon Trail is moderate, covering 2 miles round trip. The first part of the trail is flat and easy, but once you enter the canyon, the hike becomes a little more challenging.

There is a lot of rock scrambling required, with large boulders to navigate over and around. Some sections feel like a natural obstacle course, making it a fun adventure for hikers who enjoy a little extra challenge.

Since there are no clear switchbacks or marked paths in the canyon, route-finding skills are helpful. It’s best for hikers who are comfortable with uneven terrain and some light climbing.

Dog-Friendly?

Yes, dogs are allowed, but this is not an easy trail for most dogs. The boulder scrambling and rocky terrain can be tough on their paws, and there is no water source, so you’ll need to bring extra water for them.

If hiking with a dog, it’s best to go early in the morning, avoid hot days, and watch out for sharp rocks that could cause injuries.

Rules & Regulations:

Red Rock Canyon is a protected conservation area, so hikers must stay on designated trails and respect the fragile desert environment. Removing rocks, carving into sandstone, or disturbing wildlife is strictly prohibited.

Drones are not allowed, and camping is only permitted in designated areas. Always pack out all trash, be respectful of other hikers, and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re looking for more great hikes in Red Rock Canyon, there are plenty of options nearby.

Calico Tanks Trail is a shorter but fun hike with some scrambling, leading to an amazing overlook of the Las Vegas skyline.

For an even bigger challenge, Turtlehead Peak Trail offers a steep climb to one of the highest summits in the park, with incredible panoramic views.

Non-Hiking Attractions:

Not a big hiker? No problem! Red Rock Canyon offers plenty of scenic drive-up spots and photo opportunities.

The Scenic Loop Drive is a 13-mile paved road with stunning desert views and plenty of places to pull over and take photos.

The Red Rock Visitor Center is another great stop, featuring interactive exhibits about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.

If you’re into rock climbing, Red Rock Canyon is a world-famous climbing destination, with thousands of routes for all skill levels.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike Ice Box Canyon Trail is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Unlike other Red Rock trails, this one stays shady for most of the day, making it one of the few hikes you can do even in slightly warmer temperatures.

Summers in Red Rock Canyon can be brutally hot, often exceeding 100°F, but Ice Box Canyon stays cooler than other trails thanks to its narrow rock walls and limited sun exposure.

If you want to see the seasonal waterfall, the best time to visit is late winter or early spring, after rainfall or snowmelt from nearby mountains.

Sunrise and sunset are great times for photography, as the soft light highlights the canyon walls, creating a beautiful golden glow.