February 2016 Hike List

February 2016 Hike Schedule

The information below is important to determine where our group meets prior to each hike.  Please read this section before skipping to the actual hike descriptions.

The February schedule includes hikes in the Red Rock Canyon area (including Cottonwood Valley), Valley of Fire and Lake Mead area. There are also a number of afternoon hikes on this month’s schedule. Below is information regarding our meeting locations for each of these destinations.  There are different assembly points for Lake Mead hikes depending on whether those hikes are on the north or south sides of the lake.  Meeting locations for hikes in any other areas will be specified in the appropriate hike description.

Red Rock Canyon Area.  Our assembly point for hikes in Red Rock Canyon and the immediate vicinity is at the Red Rock Casino on Charleston Boulevard just east of 215.  To access the meeting location turn into the casino property at the signalized intersection directly across from Canyon Pointe, turn right directly in front of the casino, and immediately turn right into the outdoor lot.  If traveling east on Charleston from 215 you can turn right at the first entrance and then make an immediate left into the lot.  The group will be parking at the north end of the lot near Charleston Boulevard.  For hikes located in Cottonwood Valley and west there will be a secondary meeting location available for individuals coming from the south side of Las Vegas.  That will be at the gas station located at the intersection of Highways 159 and 160 (Blue Diamond Road).  This will be a quick stop that will occur about twenty or twenty-five minutes after the regular departure from Red Rock Casino.

Mount Charleston Area.  For hikes north of Las Vegas in either the Mount Charleston area or in the Sheep Mountains the assembly point will be at the Santa Fe Station Casino.  This property has two parking garages, one on the north end of the casino close to Highway 95 and the Rancho exit and one on the southeast side closer to the intersection of Rancho and Lone Mountain Road.  We always use the third level of the southeast parking garage as our meeting location.  This garage can be accessed from Lone Mountain Road traveling in either direction at the entrance near the theater addition.  It can also be accessed from Rancho.  If traveling northbound on Rancho turn in at the casino entrance signalized intersection and turn left to access the garage.  If traveling southbound on Rancho pass the signal and turn at the entrance that directly accesses the garage.  This second option is used if you are getting to Santa Fe using northbound Highway 95 and taking the Rancho exit.  Drive up to the third level and turn left - we will be meeting right there 

Lake Mead South.  For all hikes on the south side of the lake the general meeting spot will be near the large outdoor sign in front of the Henderson Fiesta Casino.  Henderson Fiesta is located on Lake Mead Parkway just east of the junction of I-215 and I-515.  Lake Mead Parkway is the eastbound extension of I-215.  There will also be an earlier assembly point for west side participants at the Red Rock Casino, with directions above, and there could be local stopping points after the group leaves Henderson Fiesta.  Those stopping points will be detailed in the appropriate hike descriptions.

Lake Mead North.  For hikes on the north side of the lake the early west side collection point will be on the top level of the parking garage at Rampart Casino rather than at Red Rock Casino.  Rampart Casino at the Resort at Summerlin (a J. W. Marriot property) is located on Rampart Boulevard just south of Summerlin Parkway.  The garage is located on the northeast side of the casino and is four stories in height.  The best route from Rampart to the general meeting location is Summerlin Parkway to Highway 95 to I-15 north to eastbound Lake Mead Boulevard.  The general assembly point will be in the parking lot behind the CVS Pharmacy located on the southeast corner of the intersection of Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood.  There will also be a secondary pickup point at the pullout area close to Mile Marker 4 on the eastbound side of Northshore Road for south side participants not using the CVS Pharmacy location.

Valley of Fire.  For hikes in the state park northeast of Las Vegas the general assembly point will be in the parking lot of Lucky Cub Casino.  The Lucky Club Casino is located on the northeast corner of the junction of I-15 and Cheyenne Road along Cheyenne.  If traveling northbound on I-15 and using the Cheyenne exit, it is necessary to cross several lanes of traffic quickly and access the left turn lane to get in to the property off the first side street.  West side participants can meet early and carpool from the top level of the parking garage at Rampart Casino.  Information on that location is specified in the above paragraph.

IMPORTANT NOTE #1 - Hike coordinators may not always be at either the early or primary assembly points.  Participants will need to monitor the time and set up carpooling to the next meeting location or pickup point when that occurs.  Although most of these situations are noted in the hike descriptions, others may occur that are not so noted.

IMPORTANT POINT #2 - When reading the descriptions you will see references to both Lake Mead Boulevard and Lake Mead Parkway.  These are different streets.  Lake Mead Boulevard is an east-west street on the north side of Las Vegas that runs completely across the city.  Lake Mead Parkway is on the south side of the city and is an east-west street that starts at the junction of I-515 and I-215 and extends over to the lake.  Please do not mix these up.

Times indicated for each hike are departure times and are strictly observed.  Usually the group will begin arriving as much as one-half hour prior to the scheduled departure times.

Please pay attention to the difficulty ratings for each hike offered and do not attempt hikes that are beyond your abilities.  New hikers without recent hiking experience MUST begin with the 8:30 AM Saturday hikes as these are the only hikes that guarantee a fairly leisurely pace.  Strenuous Tuesday hikes are only open to existing members who are properly experienced.  Be sure to wear appropriate clothing, footwear, and hats and bring sunscreen, water, electrolyte replacement fluids as needed, and food or snacks as desired for each outing.

Questions regarding general information should be directed to Steve Allen at siallen@icloud.com or by telephone at (847) 772-3193.  Specific questions regarding hikes should be directed to the listed coordinator.  Refer to the club roster for contact information.

Exposure

Class 1- Terrain that does not require use of hands or other equipment but can be negotiated using only foot power.

Class 2- Terrain that is uneven or irregular that may require use of hands for stabilization.

Class 3- Generally steep terrain that definitely requires use of hands over stretches to accomplish the task.

Class 4- In addition to use of hands, some level of equipment is necessary to accomplish the task.  This may include

webbing or short sections of rope for minor climbs or belay systems for more difficult climbs.

Difficulty Levels

Easy- Hikes of 3 miles or less with not more than 300 feet of gain, generally with only gradual elevation gains on even surface trails.

Easy to Moderate- Hikes ranging up to 5 miles and 500 feet of elevation gain with the potential for some minor trail irregularities.

Moderate- Hikes that generally have a maximum distance of 8 miles with 800 feet of elevation gain.  Somewhat longer mileage with less elevation gain or shorter mileage with more elevation gain may also fit in this category.

Moderately Strenuous- Distances of up to 12 miles and/or 1,600 feet of elevation gain involving less than 25% of off-trail hiking such as boulder scrambling or bushwhacking.

Strenuous- Longer distances with elevation gain capped around 3,000 feet or shorter distances that encompass significant off-trail sections not requiring additional safety equipment

Very Strenuous or Extreme- Efforts that require serious conditioning on the part of participants due to great length or elevation gain or climbing that requires mountaineering skills

Monday, February 1st, Black Canyon Overlook (formerly called Sugarloaf)-  This generally moderate hike of around 5 to 6 miles starts at the parking area near the Kingman Wash turnoff.  It has a few steep old gravel roads to climb for short sections.  The hike takes a wash to an overlook of historical significance with a view of the end of Gold Strike Canyon.  This is a Lake Mead South hike.  Meet the coordinators at the gravel parking area on the right after taking the Kingman Wash Exit (first exit in Arizona after crossing the new bridge on US 93 at 8:20 AM, leave Fiesta Henderson at 8:00 AM and Red Rock Casino at 7:15 AM.  Coordinators– Joan and Chuck Hawkins

Tuesday, February 2nd, Telephone Pole Canyon-  A strenuous nontechnical slot canyon, very scenic and remote-feeling for Lake Mead area.  An approximately 8 mile loop starting/ending at Goldstrike Canyon trailhead, ascending the Black Canyon road system 800 feet to it's end, then dropping 1200 feet in the 4th major canyon south of Highway 93 to meet up with Goldstrike Canyon, and returning to cars.  Lot's of neat Class 3-4 down climbing.  Expect 5-6 hours for the hike.  Meet at the Fiesta Henderson, under the large sign at 8:00 AM, Red Rock Casino at 7:15 AM. Coordinator-  Ed Forkos

Wednesday, February 3rd, Valley of Fire N-S Traverse-  This will actually be two hikes run jointly with Lone Mountain Hiking Club with two options.  Members from either club can pick either the higher, faster option or the lower, slower option.  The hikes go point-to-point from White Dome to the Visitor’s Center.  One hike led by Brian Dodd will go up and down all the mesas along the way, while the other led by Chuck Stinnett and John Novicky will go around most of the mesas and be at a slower pace. The hike is 6 miles and nearly 2,000 ft if we include the of the World option.  Strenuous because of length and terrain. Rampart 7:30 AM, Lucky Club 7:50 AM, Valley of Fire Visitor’s Center 8:45 AM. Coordinator- Brian Dodd

Thursday, February 4th, Lava Butte (2871’)- Under four miles with a mere 1000 feet of vertical gain, this Lake Mead landmark garners a moderately strenuous rating. We’ll come in from the east side and tackle the large lava rocks that make up the summit route. It’s a unique trek with a one-mile approach across the desert, followed by a steep, one-mile scramble on VW-sized boulders. Panoramic lake views from the peak. Depart from the CVS at Lake Mead and Hollywood at 8:00 AM or leave Rampart at 7:20 AM.  East side residents may go directly to the trailhead at MM #2 on Northshore Road by 8:20 AM. Coordinator-  Michael O’Connor

Friday, February 5th, Rattlesnake Canyon- Located close to Willow Springs on the north end of the main Red Rock Canyon area is an obscure side canyon that offers pure boulder scrambling for its entire length. Rated as moderately strenuous with an out-and-back distance of 3 miles, this hike reaches a terraced area somewhat at the base of the ridge leading to sandstone North Peak on the escarpment. Elevation gain is approximately 900 feet. Departure will be from Red Rock Casino at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator- Steve Allen

Friday, February 5th, Pine Creek via Arnight Trail- This moderate 5-mile out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of less than 500 feet starts at the Scenic Loop Exit parking Lot. Expect a leisurely pace. The trail crosses open desert to the Oak Creek Canyon Trailhead within the scenic loop, then joins the Arnight Trail heading northeast towards Pine Creek. We’ll stop at an overlook to Pine Creek for a break then head back. The assembled group will depart at 12:30 PM from Red Rock.  Coordinator- Nancy Moore.

Saturday, February 6th, Jean’s Peak-  This is a new hike of 4 to 5 miles and over 1000 feet elevation gain that is moderately strenuous. The trailhead starts at Mile Marker 25 on Northshore Road.  The route ascends a nearby canyon, passing caves and a very large arch, and then climbs to a tall cairn on the east end of Pinto Ridge. There are beautiful views from the top that take in the Redstone area, Pinto Valley, Bitter Springs Valley and Lake Mead. The route continues on the ridgeline a bit.  Then, after backtracking a little, it descends into Jean’s Canyon and loops back to the hike’s starting point.  This is a Lake Mead North hike.  Meet the coordinator at MM 4 on Northshore Road at 8:15 AM, leave CVS Pharmacy at 8:00 AM and leave Rampart at 7:20 AM.  Coordinators– Joan and Chuck Hawkins

Saturday, February 6th, Wetlands Trail- leisurely hike of 5 miles. Hike begins and ends  at Terrazzo Park on Galleria Drive at the west entrance of Lake Las Vegas. The trail will be a combination of hard-packed dirt, gravel, and some pavement. There is not much elevation, just a few small hills. This is an out and back hike that follows the wash. We will see lots of water birds so bring your binoculars. Red Rock group meets at 7:45 AM and then drives to the Fiesta Henderson. Departure from the Fiesta will be 8:30 AM. Coordinator- Lettie Gutierrez

Sunday, February 7th, Bird Spring Range- A moderately strenuous hike of about 6 miles with 1,500 feet of elevation gain will start from the dirt parking area about one-half mile south of Highway 160 also used for the shorter Badger Pass hike. Starting in a northerly direction, the route goes around the north end of a ridge and meets the Badger Pass Trail. Near this junction the group will begin a cross-country route east up a ridge that connects with the main north-south spine of the small range. The return will be down to Badger Pass on the way back to the vehicles. The early assembly point will be at Red Rock Casino for a 7:30 AM departure, heading for the gas station at the intersection of Highways 159 and 160 to meet the coordinator and other south side participants. The full group will leave there for the hike at 8:00 AM. Coordinator- David Hardy

Sunday, February, 7th, Sandstone Quarry/ Keystone Thrust Loop- This moderate to strenuous 7 mile partial loop

hike starts from Sandstone Quarry on a section of the Grand Circle Trail and has a net elevation gain of 800 feet. The

loop portion involves heading to the north side of Cactus Hill on the Keystone Thrust Trail and descending through

Keystone Canyon and its continuation wash south of the scenic drive. There is scrambling involved in the canyon descent and quite a bit of brush. We will go at a moderate pace as a group with short pauses as needed. Meeting location will be at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure. Coordinator- Tony Fountain.

Monday, February 8th, Red & Black Mountains-  This is the strenuous version of the 7-mile loop hike involving both of the peaks rising above St. Jude Children's Home in Boulder City.  The second peak is actually Black Mountain Overlook Peak, which is accessed from the old city trail.  The approach to Red Mountain follows some steep bike trails on the south face of the mountain and finishes through the upper stretches of Bootleg Canyon.  Pace will be steady with minimal time breaks.  Early group departure from Red Rock Casino will be at 7:20 AM with a full group departure from Henderson Fiesta at 8:00 AM.  The hike will start from the parking lot by St. Jude around 8:25 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Tuesday, February 9th, Mescalito Peak- A truly classic loop route, up Fern Canyon, descent South Fork of Pine Creek Canyon. Distance of 7 miles with a gain of 1900 feet. Strenuous, Class 3 and 4 climbing.  Expect 6-7 hours. Meet 7:30 AM at Red Rock Casino.  Coordinator- Ed Forkos 

Tuesday, February 9th, Echo Canyon/Fossil Ridge-  An alternative to the Tough Tuesday hike will be this moderate 4-mile loop hike involving some minor scrambling in the canyon on the way to the mining area on Blue Diamond Hill.  There are probably more fossils in the canyon than are remaining on the ridge, so participants should keep a lookout for any unusual rocks.  The return along the ridge provides good views in several directions.  Pace will be leisurely with frequent water stops.  The group will assemble at Red Rock Casino for an 8:30 AM departure.  The hike will start from the Cowboy Stables parking lot about 8:45 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Wednesday, February 10th, Upper Lost Creek Waterfall- Most of this out-and-back group hike of 4 to 5 miles follows relatively easy trails, but the climb through the cliffs to the waterfall elevates the overall rating to moderately strenuous. There will be some Class 2 and easy Class 3 exposure.  We will take a moderate pace, starting from the Ice Box Canyon trailhead parking lot. The group will meet at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator- Tony Fountain

Wednesday, February 10th, Lunch at the Redstone Loop-  Mostly easy loop trek coupled with photo session(s) of the many unique redstone rock outcroppings utilizing the .5 mile trail that circles the immediate area, then out and back across open “gentle” desert terrain with a few not so deep washes to the formations further to the west.  Distance approximately 3 miles with gradual elevation changes.  Pack a lunch and we’ll snack at the picnic area.  West side meeting location is Rampart Casino, leaving there at 8:20 AM for the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood and an 9:00 AM departure for the trailhead. Or meet at  MM 27 on North Shore Drive at 10:00 AM. Coordinator- David Gray

Thursday, February 11th, Sea World 2 Exploratory- This new hike route of approximately 8 to 10 miles is somewhat strenuous in parts.  From the camel tracks near the North Bowl of Fire, the hike goes northeasterly towards Bittersprings Valley and left toward the foothills of the Muddy Mountains.  Upon going through a newly routed gap between two small peaks, the hike arrives at Sea World, an area named for its spectacular rock formations.  After climbing a new peak (optional), the return is through a small slot canyon.  If possible, bring 4WD/High clearance vehicles to drive to the camel tracks.  Otherwise, the starting point will be MM 20 on Northshore Road.  This is a Lake Mead North hike.  Meet the coordinator at MM 4 on Northshore Road at 8:15 AM, leave CVS Pharmacy at 8:00 AM and leave Rampart at 7:20 AM.  Coordinator– Chuck Hawkins

Friday, February 12th, Canyon #4A Loop- We begin from Blue Diamond about a half mile to mouth of the canyon which has considerable scrambling, one spot an easy Class 3 scramble. Once we exit this deep canyon we will continue down the ridgeline separating Canyon #4 and Canyon #3 back to the cars. This is rated moderately strenuous, about 1000 feet of  elevation gain and about 5 miles. Those carpooling should depart Red Rock Casino by 8:35 AM,  Meet at the gravel parking area on the right side of the entrance road to Blue Diamond where you will meet the coordinator for an 9:00 AM start to the hike. Coordinator- David Hardy

Friday, February 12th, Upper/Lower Cleopatra Wash O & B-  Easy/Moderate/Strenuous as two groups hiking. High clearance vehicles required with carpooling set.  Upper-  Mostly easy to moderate trek with photo sessions of the eroded remnants of the volcano that was split apart over the eons that we now call Hamblin Peak and Cleopatra Wash.  Initially, the trail down the wash is a gradually decent into the wash to the open expanses of the colorful canyon walls.  For the easy/moderate hikers, we’ll continue at a comfortable pace until that “first” really difficult dry falls stops us, probably in about two miles or so.  Lower Wash-  The experienced team will move at their pace, continuing on to the lake, a total distance of about three miles.  West side meeting location is Rampart Casino, leaving there by 7:50 AM for the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood and an 8:30 AM departure.  MM 4 at 9:00 AM. Parking at the fire pit area about a half mile or so from the MM 30 turnoff at the paved road. Coordinator- David Gray

Friday, February 12th, Keystone Thrust- This moderate loop hike at a leisurely pace covers 3.3 miles with about 700 feet of elevation gain. The hike starts at the White Rock Trailhead, heads up to the Keystone Thrust overlook, then heads down a rocky dry wash and connects with a small part of the Grand Circle trail before heading back to the cars. The assembled group will depart at 12:30 PM from Red Rock Casino.  Coordinator- Nancy Moore.

Saturday, February 13th, Little Finland & The Subway (Gold Butte)- This is a moderately strenuous loop which involves a moderate amount of scrambling. We will visit the world famous Little Finland then hike over to the Subway where there are many ancient petroglyphs. The drive to the trailhead is 2 hours and requires high clearance vehicles. Meet at the Rampart at 7:15 AM to go to the Lucky Club Casino for an 8:00 AM departure. Gold Butte will be accessed from exit #112 off of I-15. Coordinators- Kay and John Blackwell

Saturday, February 13th, Fossil Ridge- This easy to moderate hike begins at the horse stables parking lot, climbs the ridge near the building where the cowboy dinners are served and follows the ridge with views of Echo Canyon. We will continue past the bunny trail junction for about half a mile to our turn around point for our snack break. The return trip to the cars will be via the bunny trail.  Elevation gain: 400 feet.  Distance:  4 miles.   Pace:  leisurely to moderate.  We will depart from Red Rock Casino parking lot at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator- Dennis Rohne

Sunday, February 14th, Cascata Loop- 7-8 miles, 1200 feet of elevation, moderately strenuous , mostly trail with a canyon decent through uneven lava rocks. Hopefully we will see the Big Horn Sheep herd at the Cascata golf course that we saw last year at this time. Sections of this trail are also mountain bike trails and are well marked. The west side will meet at Red Rock Casino at 7:30 AM and join the group at the Fiesta Henderson at 8:15 AM. From there, we travel to the Railroad Pass Casino, where this hike begins and ends. Coordinators Lettie Gutierrez & Kay Blackwell

Sunday, February 14th, Boneshaker Loop- The route will go up the Boneshaker trail (SLOW going up!). As the trail levels out the pace will be moderate (no fast pace!). We will connect with the Three Amigos trail that will take us across to the Bob Gnarly trail down the canyon or the Bombs Voyage trail that will run by the Muffins. overall rating is moderate with about 1200 feet of elevation gain and a distance of 5-6 miles. Those carpooling should depart Red Rock Casino by 8:00 AM. The hike will begin at the horse corrals at 8:15 AM. Coordinator- David Hardy

Sunday, February 14th, Calico Hills Scramble-  Anyone interested in doing a Calico Hills scramble join me at Red Spring parking area at 8:30 AM for an adventure on the rocks. As always I will try and minimize exposure(Class 3) but you need to be comfortable with scrambling. Distance in the 4 mile range. Coordinator- Steve Allen

Monday, February 15th, River Mountains Graffiti Spectacular-  This is the 7-mile loop hike from December which was then billed as the Ugliest Hike in the Catalog.  It turned out to have a few more redeeming features than originally anticipated.  The hike is rated moderately strenuous because of the descent onto the valley floor.  First is an irregular rocky ridge with some exposure that must be bushwhacked and that is followed by a steep descent on a somewhat loose game trail.  West siders will leave from Red Rock Casino at 8:20 AM and Henderson Fiesta will be used as the general meeting location and a 9:00 AM departure.  The hike will start from the westernmost parking lot at Equestrian Park around 9:15 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey. 

Monday, February 15th, Ejection Seat Ridge- This hike will be from 4-5 miles with a moderate rating. Elevation gain is around 800-900 feet. Investigating the crash wreckage requires descending a steep, rocky wash and the trail does descend another wash where hikers will step on, step over or climb down red sandstone. The wash we ascend for the return travels through a beautiful red canyon with an abundance of gypsum. West side group will meet at the top floor of the Rampart Casino parking lot at 7:15 AM and drive to the CVS /Albertson's on Lake Mead Blvd. And Hollywood. The group will depart at 8:00 AM with one last stop at miler marker 4 on Northshore Road. Coordinators-  Lettie Gutierrez & Chuck and Joan Hawkins

Tuesday, February 16th, Eva’s Tower, 5800’-  Out-and-back Class 3 scramble  with 1,800 feet of vertical, 5 miles round trip (strenuous.)  Very scenic, classic Red Rock terrain. 5-6 hours.  Meet 8:00 AM Red Rock Casino.  Coordinator- Ed Forkos 

Tuesday, February 16th, Gold Strike Hot Springs- This is about a five mile round trip strenuous hike. You can see old cars falling down the hills, climb down multiple ropes, climb stairs etched into rock, slide down rock slides, scramble through a rock garden, enjoy multiple little waterfalls, see some beautifully colored moss, trek in the 55˚ Colorado River to 130 degree sauna cave, see a heated cove with 140 degree water spewing out of the wall? Be prepared to to hike in and out of water, scramble down and up ropes and get a total body workout. Upper body arm strength is a must as you must be able to lift your body up ropes and rocks. Marine sole shoes are very helpful. Meet at the Red Rock Casino at 7:15 AM to go to the Fiesta Henderson for an 8:00 AM departure. Coordinator- John Blackwell

Tuesday, February 16th, Easy Tuesday, Willow Springs/SMYC Loop- We will depart the Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM and travel to the Willow Springs picnic area.  From Willow Springs, we will hike to the Children’s Discovery Trail. We will take that trail over to the SMYC Trail and then do an out-and-back on the SMYC Trail.  After we get back to the Lost Creek Trail, we will cross the street and hike back to the cars.  Total distance will be about 4 miles without much elevation gain.  This will be a moderate hike. Coordinator- Roger Hembree

Wednesday, February 17th, Sandstone Quarry to Dragon Canyon Overlook- This easy to moderate hike will start at the Sandstone Quarry parking lot in Red Rock Canyon pass Ash Canyon Overlook to the Dragon Canyon Overlook. This partial loop hike should cover a total distance of about 4 miles and about 700 ft gain in elevation with a gentle amount of Class 2 scrambling. We will loop over to the Turtlehead Peak Trail passing some familiar petroglyphs. Participants should meet at Red Rock Casino for a departure at 8:30 AM. Coordinator- Tony Fountain

Wednesday, February 17th,  Pinto Valley O&B- Mostly easy in/out trek coupled with photo sessions. Starting up the Cottonwood Wash we’ll bypass the 15 foot dry falls by the same name.  Then jump on the Old Arrowhead Road and thru the nearby wash (1910- Salt Lake City to Los Angeles) out to historic Signature Rock to photograph petroglyphs, colorful rock formations, and grand vistas.  Estimated distance is 4-5  miles. Gradual elevation change(s). West side meeting location is Rampart Casino, leaving there at 8:20 AM for the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood and a 9:00 AM departure. Stop at MM 4 for the rest of the group by 9:20 AM. Coordinator- David Gray 

Thursday, February 18th, Boulder Wash Cove-  This approximately 14-mile hike of mostly level walking starts at Mile Marker 25.5 on Northshore Road.  The hike is strenuous due to length.  The hike goes down to Pinto Valley and then takes Boulder Wash to Lake Mead.  This is a Lake Mead North hike.  Meet the coordinator at MM 4 on Northshore Road at 7:15 AM, leave CVS Pharmacy at 7:00 AM and leave Rampart at 6:20 AM.  Coordinator– Chuck Hawkins

Friday, February 19th, Calico Hills Loop- This is a moderately strenuous hike beginning at the Red Spring parking, hiking over 5-stop hill, up Gateway about 10 minutes then up to Sandstone Quarry. From there we follow the trail/route past Calico#2 and #1 back to Red Spring. There will be some scrambling. Elevation gain around 500 feet and a distance of 7 miles. Those carpooling should depart Red Rock Casino by 7:15 AM. Meet the Coordinator at Red Spring at 7:30 AM. Coordinator- David Hardy

Friday, February 19th, Red Cap-  Surprisingly, one of our club's most popular winter destinations has not been on the schedule as a separate hike.  So let's change that.  This 3-mile partial loop hike has lots of scrambling visiting the highest point in the Calico Hills as well as a number of natural tanks along the top.  Although it is a strenuous trek, we will take our time to accommodate those who are good with scrambling and want to experience this peak and the magnificent views it offers.  If this outing is for you, meet the coordinator and the rest of the group for an afternoon outing at Red Rock Casino for a 1:00 PM departure.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Saturday, February 20th, Guardian Angel/Sandstone/Dragon Canyon- This moderately strenuous hike is 5-6 miles with around 1200 -1400 feet of elevation. We will begin at Red Spring Picnic area and then climb the Guardian Angel Pass. Then it's down the canyon to the trail and over to Sandstone Quarry. From there we take the trail and sandstone over to the back side of Red Cap. After our break, we hike down Dragon Canyon as we make our way back to the picnic area. Meet at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator- Lettie Gutierrez

Saturday, February 20th, Railroad Pass Mountain Loop - This 5 mile loop is very scenic with the Cascata Golf Course waterfall flowing. Usually we see several bighorns feeding on the golf course grass or up in the hills. Although there is close to 900 feet of elevation gain, the moderate hike will be done at a leisurely pace. There is about 20 feet of the trail hike that some hikers consider to be exposed. Bring hiking sticks. Meeting locations include Red Rock Casino at 7:45 AM; Fiesta in Henderson at 8:30 AM; and the upper parking lot of the Railroad Pass Casino at 8:45 AM. Coordinator - Kay Blackwell

Sunday, February 21st, Bowl of Fire to Anniversary Narrows- This 15 mile hike will require a very early start as well as a lunch and extra snacks. We begin at the Mile 20 parking lot and drop into the north end of the Bowl of Fire. From there we work our way to the Anniversary drainage and eventually through the narrows and to our cars at Mile 16. Expect some minor scrambling, the narrows is usually dry but pools may be possible if it has rained recently. This is rated moderately strenuous due to the distance. Leave Rampart garage top at 6:05 AM, also CVS-Albertson's parking lot at Lake Mead Boulevard at 6:40 AM .  We will meet the coordinator at the Mile 4 parking lot at 7:00 AM to drive to Mile 20, leaving a car at Mile 16 along the way. Coordinator- David Hardy   Please RSVP for this hike.

Sunday, February 21st, Caldera/Mother Loop- This moderately strenuous loop will build on a hike we did last year. Beginning at the zip line base, we will take the trails into Bootleg Canyon and climb over a small saddle off trail. This takes us to the Caldera Loop where we will turn left, opposite to last year's route. This takes us to the Mother Loop and back around to the cars. Expect a moderate pace for 8 miles with around 2000 feet of elevation gain. Meeting locations include Red Rock Casino at 7:15 AM; Fiesta in Henderson at 8:00 AM; and Bootleg Canyon zip line base at 8:15 AM. Coordinator- Kay Blackwell

Monday, February 22nd, Hamblin Mountain- We will be using the standard 7-mile partial loop version of this incredible hike to access the top of the mountain that provides perhaps the best views of the Lake Mead area.  Overall gain is about 1,500 feet and the rating is moderately strenuous.  The group will maintain a steady pace throughout the hike.  The return section passes through a very colorful canyon and descends the dry waterfall at Cottonwood Springs.  The early west side group should meet on top of the Rampart Casino parking garage for a 7:15 AM departure.  The main group should assemble at the CVS Pharmacy parking lot at Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood for an 8:00 AM departure.  We will stop briefly at the Mile Marker 4 pullout around 8:15 AM to pick up south side participants before heading to the start of the hike at the Mile Marker 18 pullout.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Monday, February 22nd, Stonehengerson  Henderson- Located in the foothills of the River Mountains this all trail trek covers a distance of 6 miles and has lots of “henges” built by the many hikers that frequent the area and carries a moderate rating. You take the Wagonwheel exit off of U.S. 95 South just before you start going into Boulder City. Make a left and go over U.S.95 and follow Wagonwheel Drive all the way to the end to the gravel parking area. I will be at the Wagonwheel Drive trailhead location. Meeting locations include Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM; Fiesta in Henderson at 8:45 AM; and trailhead parking by 9:00 AM. Coordinator- Linda O’Leary

Tuesday, February 23rd,  Angel/Calico Peaks - A clockwise loop from the boardwalk, we’ll ascend Angel Peak, then Calico Peak before bringing it home via Ash Canyon. In the five-mile range with 1500 feet of vertical. Strenuous, Class 3. Depart from the Red Spring parking lot at 8:00 AM. Coordinator. Michael O’Connor

Tuesday, February 23rd, The Muffins-  We will meet at Red Rock Casino, depart at 8:00 AM and drive to the horse stables.  We will hike up to the Muffins, take a break there and return the same way we went up.  I'm estimating that the distance will be about 4 miles with about 1000 feet of elevation gain.  This will be a little more strenuous than the typical "Easy Tuesday" hike, but we will go at a leisurely pace and stop often. Coordinator- Roger Hembree

Wednesday, February 24th, Backdoor to Brownstone O&B- This is a moderately strenuous exploratory to locate the “backdoor” into the Brownstone Canyon via Little Red Rock-  Depart from Far Hills Road where it currently ends at the northwest corner of Howard Hughes’ housing development where it butts against Red Rock’s east boundary line.  We’ll head straight up the gravel ranch road that leads past the redstone outcroppings, going until it ends somewhat close to the escarpment.  Surveying the landscape to the north and west, it’s overland to determine the best way.  If time permits we’ll consider a trek into the Brownstone. Distance estimated at about 11 miles. Meet at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure. Coordinator- David Gray  

Wednesday, February 24th, Five Mesas Loop-  This is a brand new hike and will be open to members of both ABF and LMHC.  The hike is 5 miles long and has 1300 feet of gross gain.  Starting and ending at Mouse’s Tank parking lot, we take a stroll amongst the canyons NW to the west end of mesa #1 and then clamber up to the top.  From there we make short transitions from mesas #2 to #5 with great views at the top of each mesa.  From the picnic table on mesa #5 we then drop down and down and down to end up at our starting point.  This is a moderately strenuous hike.  It has the usual VoF sandy washes and rocky scrambles.  Rampart 7:30 AM, Lucky Club 7:50 AM, Valley of Fire Visitor’s Center 8:45 AM. Coordinator- Brian Dodd

Thursday, February 25th, Far Hills Pass Through to Kyle Canyon-  Originally scheduled in November as the Second Ugliest Hike in the Catalog, this strenuous 11-mile point-to-point hike starts at the west end of Far Hills Drive and follows a series of recreational gravel roads over a pass to the west of the gravel pit near Lone Mountain.  The descent in the second half of the hike is generally through a series of drainages.  Since we will need to provide for sufficient vehicles at the end of the hike, anyone wanting to participate needs to RSVP with the coordinator at dempseylv@aol.com no later than February 23.  There will be an early assembly of retrieval drivers at Santa Fe Station to position vehicles.  Otherwise, the hike will start around 8:00 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Friday, February 26th, La Madre Miner’s Cabin- A moderately strenuous out-and-back hike to a stone shelter in a side canyon north of the White Rock Hills that was believed to be constructed by miners who dug shafts in the side of the La Madre ridge above the cabin.  Hiking poles recommended as the route turns steep and even loose as it approaches the cabin.  Total distance is 5 miles with 1,400 feet of elevation gain.  Meet the group at Red Rock Casino for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator- Barbara Ulmer

Friday, February 26th, Echo Canyon & Fossil Ridge- This moderate loop hike at a leisurely pace with 900 feet of elevation gain starts from the same Cowboy Stables parking lot and explores a canyon behind the horse stables and a ridge a bit to the west. The route up through Echo Canyon has a fair amount of trail but there will be some minor scrambling involved, especially over a few minor dry waterfalls. The return is on the ridge immediately above that canyon. Distance is between 4 and 5 miles depending on which trail is used for the final descent. The group will meet at Red Rock Casino and leave at 12:30 PM. Coordinator- Nancy Moore.

Saturday, February 27th, Rainbow Canyon-  This approximately 5 to 6 mile hike begins at MM 16 on Northshore Road.  The hike is generally moderate.  The hike goes through the colorful Rainbow Canyon and then takes a series of colorful washes back to the trailhead.  It is a Lake Mead North hike.  Meet the coordinators at MM 4 on Northshore Road at 8:15 AM, leave CVS Pharmacy at 8:00 AM and leave Rampart at 7:20 AM.  Coordinators– Joan and Chuck Hawkins

Saturday, February 27th, Historic Railroad Tunnels- Before it gets too warm we need to visit this area of Lake Mead once again.  There will be two possible destinations for this leisurely effort.  Starting from the Alan Bible Visitor Center lower parking lot, those who would like to keep the hiked distance somewhat short can settle for just the out-and-back section through the tunnels to the picnic cabana at the end of the fifth tunnel.  Distance will be 4 miles with minimal elevation change and an easy to moderate rating.  Those wanting a bit more can continue along the trail and walk over the bridge connecting Nevada and Arizona, with a snack break in the vicinity of the bridge.  Total distance will be 7 miles.  We will NOT be hiking down to the dam on this day.  West side group will depart from Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM.  The fully assembled group will depart from Fiesta Henderson at 8:40 AM.  We should be at the visitor center for a hike start at 9:05 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Sunday, February 28th, River Mountain Peak- This moderately strenuous out and back hike will climb over the Red/Black Saddle and continue on to River Mountain Peak via a bike trail, the highest point in the River Mountains Range. 8 miles. Elevation gain will be around 2300 feet with a moderate pace. Meeting locations include Red Rock Casino at 7:15 AM; Fiesta in Henderson at 8:00 AM; and the River Mountain TH west of the St. Jude Ranch at 8:15 AM. Coordinator- Kay Blackwell

Monday, February 29th, Northshore Peak-  This strenuous loop hike covers about 6 miles with lots of bushwhacking and boulder scrambling and very little trail.  It climbs a steep approach to the top of the tallest peak along Northshore Drive, then descends through a picturesque canyon on the north side of the mountain.  After winding through a series of drainages, the route again climbs to a saddle on an adjacent ridge and descends past a pretty significant dry waterfall.  Only accomplished hikers should attempt this trek.  West side meeting location is Rampart Casino, leaving there at 7:20 AM for the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood and an 8:00 AM departure.  There will be a brief stop at MM4 on Northshore Road about 8:15 AM before heading to the trailhead.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey