Quick Facts:
Location: Red Rock Canyon – Las Vegas, Nevada
Coordinates: 36.157504098254016, -115.49396220166031
Length: .5 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 100’
Dog Friendly: Yes
Introduction:
Red Rock Canyon is famous for its towering cliffs and rugged desert terrain, but tucked away in this rocky wonderland is a hidden gem, Lost Creek Trail. This short, easy hike winds through a shady canyon, leading to a seasonal waterfall that feels like an oasis in the middle of the Mojave Desert. If you’re looking for a quick escape from the Las Vegas Strip or a great family-friendly adventure, Lost Creek Trail is the perfect choice.
Getting to Lost Creek Trail:
Lost Creek Trail is located inside Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, about 30 minutes west of Las Vegas. To get there, take State Route 159 to the entrance of the Scenic Loop Drive, a 13-mile one-way road that winds through the park. Lost Creek Trail is about 7 miles into the loop, with a clearly marked parking area near Willow Springs.
Red Rock Canyon requires a timed entry reservation for vehicles, so be sure to book in advance if you’re visiting during peak hours. If you have an America the Beautiful Pass, you can use it for entry.
Parking Information:
There’s a designated parking lot for Lost Creek Trail near Willow Springs Picnic Area. It’s a popular spot, so it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. If parking is full, try the nearby picnic area or other pullouts along Scenic Loop Drive. There are restrooms at Willow Springs, but no water stations, so bring plenty of your own.
Landscape Description:
Lost Creek Trail is short, sweet, and packed with variety. The hike starts on a well-maintained dirt path, winding through desert scrub and red rock formations. As you walk, the scenery shifts, tall canyon walls rise around you, and the temperature drops slightly as you enter the shaded gorge.
The highlight of the trail is the seasonal waterfall at the end. After a good rain or during the winter and early spring, water cascades over the rock ledge into a small pool below. Even when the falls aren’t flowing, the sheltered canyon is a peaceful spot to relax and take in the natural beauty. Keep an eye out for petroglyphs along the way, evidence of the Native American tribes that once lived in the area.
Wildlife is also common here. Desert bighorn sheep sometimes roam the cliffs above, and lizards dart across the rocks. If you’re quiet, you might spot a jackrabbit or hear the rustling of a desert tortoise moving through the brush.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
Lost Creek Trail is 0.5 miles round trip with very little elevation gain, making it one of the easiest hikes in Red Rock Canyon. The path is mostly flat, with a few rocky sections and some wooden bridges over dry creek beds. It’s a great hike for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a quick nature fix without too much effort.
Dog-Friendly?
Yes! Dogs are welcome on Lost Creek Trail as long as they’re on a leash. Keep in mind that Red Rock Canyon can get extremely hot, so avoid bringing pets during the middle of the day in summer. Always carry extra water for both you and your pup.
Park Rules and Regulations:
Stay on the designated trail to protect the fragile desert ecosystem. Climbing on rocks and disturbing petroglyphs is not allowed. Red Rock Canyon follows a Leave No Trace policy, so pack out all trash. Fires and camping are not permitted within the conservation area. Since this is a protected site, collecting rocks, plants, or wildlife is strictly prohibited.
Other Hikes Nearby:
If Lost Creek Trail leaves you wanting more, check out Calico Tanks, a moderate 2.5-mile hike leading to a hidden water pocket with stunning views of Las Vegas. Another great option is Ice Box Canyon, a more challenging 2.6-mile trek through a cool, shady canyon that also features a seasonal waterfall. For an easier walk, try Willow Springs Loop, a short scenic trail near the picnic area.
Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:
After your hike, take a drive along the Scenic Loop, stopping at overlooks for some of the best panoramic views of Red Rock Canyon. If you’re looking for a fun detour, visit the Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, a historic ranch with beautiful grassy meadows and picnic spots. Back in Las Vegas, unwind with a meal at Downtown Summerlin, where you’ll find great restaurants and shopping just minutes from Red Rock.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall are the best times to hike Lost Creek Trail. The temperatures are mild, and if you time it right, you’ll catch the waterfall at its best. Winter can also be a great time to visit, with cooler weather and fewer crowds. Summer hiking is not recommended unless you go early in the morning, temperatures in Red Rock Canyon often soar past 100°F, and there is very little shade along the trail.
