White Rock Loop

The White Rock Loop is a great hike that takes you through the diversity of terrain that is found in Red Rock Canyon. Of course the only downside is that an entry fee is required ($15 per vehicle, or annual pass) and reservations are needed to enter the scenic loop, and access this trailhead, unless arriving before 8:00 AM. Visit the Red Rock Canyon website for more information.

The loop is best started from the Willow Springs Trailhead, where you’ll also find a lovely picnic area and vault toilets. Begin by walking the rough 4x4 road that takes off straight out of the parking area. This is the least enjoyable section of the hike. You’ll soon see large signs for the Rainbow Mountain Wilderness and La Madre Mountain Wilderness areas. You’ll then veer off the 4x4 road to the right onto what appears to be another track of some kind.

After following this track for a short distance the White Rock Loop Trail takes a slight right and you’ll finally find yourself on lovely singletrack trail! The impressive multicolored sandstone of White Rock Hills tower to the right, while the trail itself passes through pinyon pine, juniper, and scrub oaks.

Next the trail ascends out of the forest and to the loop’s high point. From here there are fantastic views, not only of the valley you just came from, but toward the Calico Hills and even toward downtown Las Vegas. Upon descending from this high point you’ll notice quite the change in scenery. Gone are the trees, you’re now back in the desert. Cacti start to reappear again as you make your way past the Keystone Trail junction and White Rock Spring (just off trail).

The trail widens as you travel along the eastern side of the White Rock Hills. After a brief descent, the trail climbs gently back toward the Lost Creek Trailhead, past some Native American petroglyphs, and finally back to the Willow Creek Trailhead.