Grand Circle Loop Trail

Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024
Meetup time: 7:30 am.
Meetup place: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Visitor Center

This is a strenuous 11.8-mile trail hike loop with approximately 1,570 ft of elevation gain (this makes for a good winter workout in the desert). The Grand Circle Loop is the longest official trail in the Scenic Loop Drive area of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, and takes around 5 – 6 hours to complete, depending on the speed of the group. The loop starts and ends at the Visitor Center. The route passes red sandstone crags and rock art, all the while traversing open desert with grand vistas in all directions. Most of this trail is relatively well groomed, relatively free of rocks, and makes for easy walking; however, along the way, expect loose rocks and short steep sections. There is no running water available along the trail and cell service is intermittent to unavailable. Due to the length of the hike and the steepness of some hills this hike will be very challenging for those who are not in good condition.

We will meet at the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center at 7:30 am. Please note that 7:30 am is not the arrival time but the departure time for our hike. Aim to arrive 5 – 10 minutes early to ensure everyone is prepared. Kindly be respectful of others and be on time. Your punctuality is greatly appreciated.

Red Rock Canyon has put a reservation system in place for the Scenic Drive. Reservations are required from October 1st to May 31st between the hours of 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. For more information, please visit https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10075177. Additionally, each car needs a park pass or the cost to enter is $20 per car.

The Sierra Club does not arrange carpools for our outings, but you are welcome to arrange them among yourselves in the comments section of the meetup.

Backpacks are recommended and you'll need at least 2 – 3 liters of water in metal or plastic containers…no glass. A water hydration pack is the most convenient. Bring a light snack/lunch that provides quick energy. We will take a lunch break about halfway into our hike. You'll need sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and hiking boots. Sneakers are not recommended as portions of the terrain can be quite rocky. Trekking poles are welcome and are encouraged. It is always a good thing to have layers of clothing that you can quickly add or take off to accommodate temperature changes. You might want to include a rain jacket or puffy as one of your layers. Always be prepared for a longer day than anticipated in case there is something that prolongs the hike. These recommendations are encouraged. You be the judge of what you need to safely participate in the event.

Sorry, no dogs, children, guests or ‘plus one’. Everyone registering here must be a member of the Sierra Club Southern Nevada Meetup Group and sign up separately. There is no charge for the hike, and you do not need to be a member of the Sierra Club to join us! You will be asked to sign a waiver at the trailhead when you sign in.

And as always practice Leave No Trace Behind in our adventures.