April 2016 Hike List

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 April schedule includes hikes in the Red Rock Canyon area (including Cottonwood Valley) and the Mountain Charleston 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 pace to suit first timers.  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.

Friday, April 1st, Keystone Thrust Loop- This moderate loop hike 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 7:30 AM from Red Rock Casino.  Coordinator- Barbara Ulmer

Saturday, April 2nd, Little Zion-   This moderately strenuous 6-mile out-and-back hike to a spectacular area of sandstone formations is located on the back side of the escarpment.  The route follows a drainage to an overlook above Spring Mountain Ranch and continues on a steep trail over a ridge to a valley on the shelf of the escarpment near Monument Peak.  High clearance vehicles will be required to access the starting point at the end of a forest service road in the wilderness area.  The main group will assemble at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure and we will stop at the gas station at the junction of Highways 159 and 160 to pick up south side participants about 8:20 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey. 

Sunday, April 3rd, Calico/Gateway Loop-  Starting from Red Springs Picnic Area, this strenuous loop hike will head around the south end of the Calico Hills and approach Sandstone Quarry along the Calico Hills Trail.  From there, the group will head around the north end of Red Cap and drop into the wash leading to Lower Gateway Canyon.  After boulder scrambling in the canyon, the route comes around the east side of Krafft Mountain and returns to the starting point along Ash Creek.  Total distance is about 8 or 9 miles and we will maintain a steady pace with occasional water breaks and a snack break past Sandstone Quarry.  The assembled group will leave Red Rock Casino at 7:45 AM.  The hike will start from Red Springs Park around 7:55 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Sunday, April 3rd, Climber’s Alcove- The route follows Potosi Canyon #3 for the strenuous climb up to Climber’s Alcove.  Elevation gain will be up to 2,000 feet with a distance of 5-7 miles depending on where we start. Expect scrambling. The trail leaving the canyon bottom is very steep with some loose rock at times, may have some minor exposure. Meet the coordinator at the gas station on 159 & 160 at 7:00 AM. Red Rock Casino at 6:30 AM. Coordinator- David Hardy

Monday, April 4th, Shady Hollow & Stepladder Trails-  Here is the first hike of the year in the Mount Charleston area.  It is a moderate 6-mile loop hike that starts and finishes from the parking lot diagonally across the roundabout from the Mount Charleston Visitor Center.  Elevation gain is somewhere around 1,000 feet and the pace will be moderate and steady.  The return trail will offer great views of the new visitor center complex.  General meeting location will be Santa Fe Station parking garage with a departure time of 8:30 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Monday, April 4th, June Bug Silver Mine O&B- The mine is located below the highest peak on the valley's north side, Gass Peak in the Desert Wildlife Refuge.  With a distance of 10 miles this hike is rated moderate given the gentle gain in elevation of around 800 feet and smooth rock terrain.  There are great views of the city and surrounding mountains, and six foot high barrel cacti. Depart Santa Fe Station at 7:30 AM or be at the trailhead at 8:00 AM. From the 215, exit northbound onto Aliante Parkway, drive until it dead ends at the desert with Horse Drive.  Easy parking- Coordinator- David Gray

Tuesday, April 5th, Juniper Peak (6109’)- We haven’t done the standard route for quite sometime, so let’s keep it simple and do just that. An out-and-back affair from Pine Creek. Drop down to the Wilson Homestead, cross the creek, thread the cholla cactus trail and ascend Juniper Canyon. Looking at six miles with 2400 feet of vertical. Call it strenuous with some mild Class 3 near the cap. Depart from the Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM. Coordinator- Michael O’Connor

Tuesday, April 5th, White Hills Rock Loop CCW- Departing from the Willow Springs picnic area the standard 6.4-mile loop around the two cream-colored peaks at the north end of Red Rock Canyon will be done at a leisurely pace. With 1200 feet of elevation gain along a nicely maintained trail the hike has a moderate rating. The assembled group will depart from Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM. Coordinator- Judy Warner

Wednesday, April 6th, Fletcher Canyon-  Moving up to the 7,000 foot mark in Kyle Canyon the group will be conducting an easy to moderate 4-mile hike into the canyon approaching Mummy's Toe and Fletcher Peak.  This is an out-and-back hike and we will be adopting a leisurely pace to attract first-timers.  The upper part of the canyon below Obstacle Rock involves some minor scrambling and we may encounter snow in the narrow section.  There also may be some flowing water as the canyon drains a significant portion from higher surrounding mountains.  Meet at Santa Fe Station for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Wednesday, April 6th, Calico Scramble- Anyone interested in doing a Calico Hills scramble join me at Red Springs parking area at 8:00 AM for an adventure on the rocks. As always I will try and minimize exposure (up to Class 3) but you need to be comfortable with scrambling. Distance in the 4 mile range. Coordinator- Steve Allen

Thursday, April 7th, Hidden Forest-  For a refreshing foray into the canyon woods of the Sheep Mountains, this moderately strenuous hike is 11 miles with 2,200 feet of gentle elevation gain. It will require high clearance vehicles on a road that is around 22 miles. The hike gently climbs up through Deadman Canyon with a turnaround point at an old historical cabin that was once used as a ranger outpost. There is a running spring there with picnic tables. It is also the jumping off point for the hike to Hayward Peak, the highest point in the Sheep Mountains. It will be a 7 to 8 hour day including drive time. Prepare for the weather and meet at the Santa Fe Casino for an 8:00 AM departure. Coordinator- Kay Blackwell

Friday, April 8th, Potosi Canyon #2- Today we will explore Potosi Canyon #2 that cuts into the eastern part of Potosi Mountain.  A moderately strenuous hike with 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Expect scrambling and some bush whacking. Long pants and long sleeve shirt recommended. Meet the coordinator at the gas station on 159 & 160 at 7:00 AM. Red Rock Casino at 6:30 AM. Coordinator- David Hardy

Saturday, April 9th, Spring Picnic-  Join your fellow club members for a variety of hiking options at Lone Mountain Regional Park. The picnic and starting location for all hikes will be at the Lone Mountain Discovery Park on Jensen between Alexander and Craig roads. Hikes will include going to the top of the mountain using a couple of different routes (moderately strenuous or moderate) or just walking around its base (leisurely).  All of these options will start promptly at 8:30 AM (see individual hike details.) The picnic itself is slated to begin at 11:30 AM with food being served at 12 noon.  See other announcements for more details on the picnic.  Picnic Coordinator - Nancy Moore. Hike Coordinators – see individual hike details.

Saturday, April 9th, Spring Picnic/Lone Mountain Scramble (3342’)- Let’s work up an appetite for the spring picnic. Ascend the east flank of the mountain, take it down the south ridge and bring it back home on the newly renovated trail. Less than three miles with 800 feet vertical. The limestone descent is a bit tricky in spots, so label it Class 3. Should be back in plenty of time to assist the gang setting up for our picnic. Depart from Lone Mountain Discovery Park on Jensen at the western terminus of Craig Road at 8:30 AM. Coordinator- Michael O’Connor

Saturday, April 9th, Spring Picnic/Lone Mountain- Join the group for a fairly short 3-mile jaunt to the top of a 750-foot peak on the north side of Las Vegas.  The trail is somewhat steep but the footing is generally okay because of the exposed limestone.  The starting point for this moderate hike will be from the parking lot on the south side of Lone Mountain Regional Park.  That is located just off Jensen between Alexander and Craig several miles west of Highway 95.  Be there for an 8:30 AM start on the trail.  Coordinator- Jackie Cupp

Saturday, April 9th, Spring Picnic/Lone Mountain Loop- Leisurely perimeter route around the mountain. It's about 2.25 miles with minimal elevation gain (less than 100 feet). The hike will begin at the picnic location, southeast park area on Jensen between Craig and Alexander at 8:30 AM. Coordinator- Lorraine Stalians

Sunday, April 10th, Escarpment Rim Loop - This long distance hike of 10 miles has an elevation gain of 2200 feet. It will take approximately 5 hours to complete meaning that we will assume an average pace of 2 miles per hour. This is a moderately strenuous to strenuous pace due to the climbing and distance involved. There is a minimal amount of scrambling with most of the hike having a trail. We will pass over Mountain Spring Peak then move on to reach the rim above Little Zion. The route reaches almost all the way to an Indecision Peak junction when it turns to descend on a nice trail down to Rainbow Springs. Here, the route returns to the cars via another trail that traverses the foothills. Meet at Red Rock Casino for a 7:30am departure, or be at the gas station (160 & 159) at 7:50am, or meet at the Mountain Springs summit pass trailhead at 8:10am. Coordinator - Kay Blackwell

Sunday, April 10th, Callville Ridge Plane Crash-  This is a 6-mile hike with 1,400 feet of elevation gain that is moderately strenuous. The ridgeline has lots of lava rocks that you need to be comfortable with walking on.  The hike starts at a parking area off Callville Road near MM11 on Northshore Road.  The hike climbs to a ridge line and continues along the ridge until reaching an old dirt road leading to the remains of a 1950’s military plane crash.  Along the way is a hillside of beavertail cactus (maybe blooming).  The break is on a hilltop with beautiful views of Lake Mead and its surroundings.  The return is via several washes that require some scrambling.  Then the hike climbs out of the wash to hillsides of beavertail cactus (maybe blooming) and returns to the start.  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

Monday, April 11th, Red Rock Summit – Beginning at Willow Springs Picnic Area, this hike will go up and back on Rocky Gap Road . It will be 10-11 miles with around 3000 feet of elevation gain. Careful….as areas will be rocky. Depart Red Rock Casino at 7:30 AM. Coordinator-  David Gray

Tuesday, April 12th, Bridge Point (6780’)- It’s that triangular dome to the north of Wilson that’s visible from the highway. Often mistaken for Bridge Mountain. It’s in the same massif, but a couple hundred feet lower. An out-and-back affair from the Pine Creek trailhead, we’ll hug the north flank of Mescalito. When Fern Creek Canyon dead ends, begin the steep, sinuous, Class 3 ascent to the seldom visited peak. This one clocks in at seven miles with 3,200 feet of  elevation gain. Color it strenuous. Depart from the Red Rock Casino at 7:30 AM. Coordinators- Michael O’Connor & Richard Natale

Tuesday, April 12th, Ice Box Canyon- This moderate 4 mile out-and-back hike will reach the turn around point just below a 30 foot seasonal waterfall at an ideal spot for a snack break. Overall, there is about 3/4 mile of scrambling in the drainage of the creek, but the boulders are generally in the two to three foot height range rather than the ten-footers found in some of the other canyons. Elevation gain is 900 feet and gloves are recommended. The group will depart from Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM. Coordinator- Tony Fountain

Wednesday, April 13th, Calico Scramble- Anyone interested in doing a Calico Hills scramble join me at Red Springs parking area at 8:00 AM for an adventure on the rocks. As always I will try and minimize exposure (up to Class 3) but you need to be comfortable with scrambling. Distance in the 4 mile range. Coordinator- Steve Allen

Wednesday, April 13th, Urban Walk / Pueblo Park-  A leisurely hike of 3 miles. Meet at 4:00 PM at the parking lot at Pueblo Park off of Lake Mead Blvd. Coordinator- Lettie Gutierrez

Thursday, April 14th, Muffins/Overlook/Echo Canyon- This approximately 8 mile hike will have around 1,500 feet of gain. It will be a moderately strenuous hike with a matching pace. We will climb up to the Muffins, continue around to the Cairn Overlook on the Three Amigos Trail, then descend on the Three Amigos Trail to the Boneshaker sign and around to Echo Canyon and down. Meet at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure. Coordinator- Kay Blackwell

Friday, April 15th, Desert Triangle - Three trails come together to provide an easy to moderate trek totaling some 4.7 miles from Oak Creek Trailhead to Potato Knoll then back by Arnight Trail.  Expect some rocky conditions and the desert in bloom with great views of the Wilson Cliffs.  Elevation gain of 500 feet, Meet at Red Rock Casino for a departure by 8:00 AM. Coordinator-  David Gray 

Friday, April 15th, Meditation Point - This moderately strenuous hike, oft-postponed-due-to-weather, will ascend one-half of the horseshoe shaped ridgeline south of Highway 160, just before reaching the Mountain Springs Summit Pass trailhead. Elevation gain of close to 2000 feet on a relatively benign class 2 terrain of approximately 5 miles, with a short somewhat exposed section of maneuvering along the way (but quite minor). Would like to utilize high clearance vehicle to avoid parking on the highway and hiking up a mundane three mile dirt road to the trailhead. Depart Red Rock Casino at 8:00am. Coordinator - Laszlo Heredy

Saturday, April 16th, Escarpment Trail-  This moderate 4-mile hike behind the new visitor center in Kyle Canyon will be done at a leisurely pace.  Although it is all trail, the climb onto the ridge above the cliffs is fairly steep, so we will take it in short increments and let people catch their breath.  Views from the top of the trail, which will be in a counter clockwise direction, are dramatic.  If interested, join the group at Santa Fe Station for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Saturday, April 16th, Guardian Angel / Ash Canyon Loop-  A hike of 6-7 miles with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain. This is a moderately strenuous hike that has trails, scrambling, and elevation. We will climb up to Guardian Angel Pass then descend to the trail to Sandstone Quarry. We make our way over to Ash Canyon using the trail and climbing on sandstone. After a break, it's down the steep trail of Dragon Canyon. Meet at Red Rock at 8:00 AM or Red Spring picnic area at 8:15 AM. Coordinator- Lettie Gutierrez

Sunday, April 17th, Dragon Ridge Traverse-  This strenuous hike ascends Five-Stop Hill to the saddle where the route then takes us to the high point on the steep limestone slope, traverses the ridge and descends into Ash Canyon for a return to the trailhead.  With areas of loose rock on the steep slopes, hiking poles are recommended. There are areas of Class 3 exposure on the ridge traverse.  Meet at the far gravel parking area on Sandstone Drive in the Calico Basin for a 8:00 AM departure. Coordinator- Steve Allen

Sunday, April 17th,  Cottonwood Pass Loop- A moderate 6-mile loop outing with 1,000 feet of elevation gain in South Cottonwood Valley. The trek will start from the gravel parking area south of Highway 160 also used for Badger Pass. It will follow a combination of dirt roads and trails toward Mount Potosi and loop past Cottonwood Pass on the Goodsprings Road before heading back to the vehicles on the Deadhorse Trail in Red Valley. This hike will maintain a moderate pace with periodic breaks (no fast pace!) and the group will stay together. Meet the coordinator at the gas station on Highways 159 and 160 at 7:30 AM. Or, leave Red Rock Casino at 7:00 AM. Coordinator- David Hardy.

Monday, April 18th, Mountain Spring Peak Loop -  The strenuous 7-mile loop version of the hike to the top of the limestone peak above the escarpment starts at the summit trailhead on Highway 160.  The peak is reached early in the hike and the long break will occur on a dramatic ledge at the top of Black Velvet Canyon.  Following the break the group will straddle the next ridge downward to Rainbow Springs Road, then follow that recreational gravel road past the springs to the starting point.  Pace will be moderate and steady.  The assembled group will leave from Red Rock Casino at 7:30 AM and stop at the Late Night parking lot along Highway 160 about 8:00 AM on the way to the trailhead.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Monday, April 18th, Pine Creek Canyon Homestead/Desert Loop- We’ll explore the historical home site of Wilson’s Ranch in the Meadow, walk the Fire Ecology Trail, and then take Dale’s Trail for bit to look for desert flowers and great vistas offered by Wilson’s Peaks.  Bring your camera.  Easy pace…..careful, as this is a rocky trail.  Distance is approximately 3 miles with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet. Depart Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM. Coordinator- David Gray

Tuesday, April 19th, Indecision Peak-  A sandstone classic with lots of sweet Class 2-3 scrambling, strenuous, out and back with 2,750 vertical feet of rise, and a distance of 6 miles.  It will take 6-7 hours.  Meet 7:30 AM at Red Rock Casino.  Coordinator- Ed Forkos.

Tuesday, April 19th, Potato Knoll- The relatively level terrain associated with this moderate 5-mile partial loop hike is interrupted by a short but steep climb up the 500 foot hill in the shadow of Wilson Peak. The snack break will occur on the sandstone outcroppings found on the southern end of the hill. Leisurely pace. Departure from the assembly point at Red Rock Casino will be at 8:00 AM. Coordinator- Tony Fountain

Wednesday, April 20th, La Madre Miner's Cabin & Mine Shafts- For those hikers who have reached the stone hut overlooking White Rock Hills Peak who have wondered what the mine shafts are like, this is your opportunity.  The strenuous out-and-back hike covers about 6 miles, with the section getting to the cabin quite steep and the last section getting to the shafts being even steeper and requiring use of hands in a few places.  If interested, meet the group at Red Rock Casino for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Wednesday, April 20th, Urban Walk / Peccole Ranch-  A leisurely hike of 3 miles. Meet at 4:00 PM at the parking lot of The Pint at 9941 W. Charleston. The bar is actually off of Hualapai but the address is on Charleston. This will be an out and back. Coordinator- Lettie Gutierrez

Thursday, April 21st, Hollow Rock Peak CCW (5960’)- Let’s just bypass Heartbreak Hill altogether. From the Mountain Springs trailhead, we’ll head east on the pole line road for a mile or so. The meat of the hike starts here as we drop into the canyon and ascend the steep wash up to the ridgeline. We’ll bring it home atop the ridge and descend Big Horn Berm. It’s a five-miler with 1,800 feet of vertical. Mostly Class 2 terrain with a moderately strenuous rating. Depart from the Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM with a courtesy stop at the 160 /159 gas station. Coordinator- Michael O’Connor

Friday, April 22nd, Canyon #4A Loop-  Starting from Blue Diamond after about a half mile the route enters the 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 1,000 feet of elevation gain and about 5 miles. 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 8:00 AM start to the hike. Red Rock at 7:35 AM. Coordinator- David Hardy

Friday, April 22nd, Calico Scramble- Anyone interested in doing a Calico Hills scramble join me at Red Springs parking area at 8:00 AM for an adventure on the rocks. As always I will try and minimize exposure (up to Class 3) but you need to be comfortable with scrambling. Distance in the 4 mile range. Coordinator- Steve Allen

Friday, April 22nd, Potato Knoll Loop from Oak Creek North - Here is a leisurely Red Rock option for this Friday.  We will start our hike at the old jeep track road up the hill about half a mile from the signed Oak Creek trailhead along Highway 159.  After taking the jeep track west toward the canyon, the group will intersect the trails going around, but not to the top, of the hill in the shadow of Wilson Peak.  The snack break will be in the valley between the hill and the peak.  Distance will be 4 miles with an easy to moderate rating.  The group will depart from Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM and we will be at the trailhead for the start of the hike by 8:15 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Saturday, April 23rd, Kraft Mountain Loop- This is a moderately strenuous hike of 6 miles that includes trails, scrambling and elevation. From the Red Springs Park picnic area, we hike the trail over to 5 Stop and go up. At the top, we will descend into Gateway where some scrambling is involved. We will take a break and continue the hike where there is scrambling and bouldering. Meet at Red Rock at 8:00 AM or Red Springs Park in Calico Basin at 8:15 AM. Coordinator - Steve Allen

Saturday, April 23rd, Hilltop Loop- This 3 mile leisurely hike begins at the Twilight Trailhead 9 miles up Kyle Canyon Road. With only 500 feet of elevation gain, the trail takes you high up around a contour of a nearby hill. There is one steep climb that we will take slow. Meet at the Santa Fe Casino for an 8:30 AM departure. Coordinator- Kay Blackwell

Sunday, April 24th, Lower Showgirl Loop- This 7 mile partial loop moderately strenuously paced hike will begin around 14 miles up Kyle Canyon Road on the Showgirl Trail. After reaching the mouth of the AtBF Canyon, the route will circle around by the BLM fire station and return on the Showgirl Trail. Meet at the Santa Fe Casino for an 8:30 AM departure. Coordinator- Kay Blackwell

Sunday, April 24th, Siena Ridge- This is an easy to moderate hike of about 5 miles with a gain in elevation of 800 feet. We will start from the Mesa Park parking lot and proceed at an easy to moderate pace adjusting to the needs of the group. The hike will head north up a dirt road along a water control drainage, past a retention basin, then climb a short but steep hill to the Siena Ridge overlooking Summerlin South. Working our way along the ridge heading south, we reach a point overlooking Bishop Gorman HS. The group will then drop down a bit to a trail heading back north and returning along the original dirt road. Total distance is approximately 5 miles with an elevation gain of about 800 feet. Departure is from the Mesa Park parking lot off of South Mesa Park Drive. From the west side, take the 215 South to the Town Center Exit. Turn right on Town Center Drive. Take the second right onto South Town Center Drive.to the park. From the east side take the 215 West to Russell Road. Go west on Russell Road and turn right onto South Mesa Park Drive. The group will depart from the Mesa Park parking lot at 8:00 AM. Coordinator- Tony Fountain

Monday, April 25th, Red Cap- This moderately strenuous 3 mile hike to the highest point in the Calico Hills involves a significant amount of scrambling and use of hands with Class 3 exposure. We will start from the Sandstone Quarry parking lot. The climb to the top of the Red Cap’s minor peak will be from the east side of the sandstone hills, finishing through a narrow seam. We will explore a popular tinaja before ascending to the peak for our break. The descent will be along a relative newly explored seam on the northwest side connecting to the route usually used for the approach to ascend to Red Cap. The group will take a moderate pace and depart from the Red Rock Casino at 8:00AM. Coordinator- Tony Fountain

Monday, April 25th, First Creek Hidden Falls-  The trailhead is off Route 159 about two miles past Red Rock’s Scenic Drive exit.  The pull off area is marked with the sign: “First Creek.”  It’s a wide graded trail with cable fencing that horseback riders use. So your hike coordinator shouldn’t get lost. Easy pace, but expect some rocky areas.  Total distance out/back is three miles with an elevation gain of 200 feet.  Elevation of the falls- 25 feet-  Great views of Wilson’s Peaks with pines, large colorful boulders, and Pacific tree frogs. Depart Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM. Coordinator- David Gray 

Tuesday, April 26th, Two North Peaks-  Absent as a Halloween hike in 2015, it's been about a year since this trek has made the schedule.  The 11-mile loop route gains close to 3,000 feet of elevation and is rated strenuous.  The route will head up Rocky Gap Road to the summit and take the signed trail over to the limestone peak.  We will then follow the ridge along the top to Ice Box Canyon and visit the sandstone peak.  There is a lot of steep trail on this hike with much of it being on the descent from the sandstone peak back to Rocky Gap Road.  Meet at Red Rock Casino for this hike with a 7:00 AM departure.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.

Tuesday, April 26th, Easy Tuesday - Pine Creek - We will depart Red Rock Casino at 8:00AM and drive to the Pine Creek parking lot.  From there we will do an easy to moderate 3.0 mile hike into Pine Creek. Coordinator- Roger Hembree

Wednesday, April 27th, Southern Calico Scramble- This is a moderately strenuous scramble of around 4 miles with 1300 feet of elevation gain. The route climbs up to Angel Pass from Red Springs then circles back to climb up the southern portion of the Calico Hills. Return will be down the southern end of the Hills after reaching Red Springs Peak. Meet at Red Springs Park in Calico Basin for an 8:30 AM start of the hike. Coordinator- Kay Blackwell

Wednesday, April 27th, Urban Walk - South Tower / North Tower Loop- A leisurely hike of 3 miles. Meet at 4:00 PM at South Tower Park at 1022 Park Vista Drive. Park Vista is west of the 215 off of Charleston. Coordinator- Lettie Gutierrez

Thursday, April 28th, Big Falls/Mary Jane Falls - It will be interesting to see if we have to walk across snow banks in Big Falls Canyon on the way to the base of the 80-foot waterfall, which should be in fairly good form. There is a lot of boulder scrambling on the first part of the hike and we will be taking the old trail to the base of Mary Jane Falls, which lies on the opposite side of Kyle Canyon from Big Falls.  Overall, this is a 5-mile hike with a double climb and it is rated strenuous.  Departure from Santa Fe Station will be at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.  

Friday, April 29th, Snoopy’s Nose- This hike is rated moderately strenuous with some Class 3 scrambling.  The hike will be about 6 miles with 2,700 feet of elevation gain.  Starting at the Willow Springs Picnic Area we will hike up Rocky Gap Road to Waterfall Canyon.  We will proceed all the way up this beautiful canyon and take the right fork to a dry waterfall.  Finding a route west around this obstacle we proceed up a steep slope to the summit.  Meet at the Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM. Coordinator- Jerry Thomas

Friday, April 29th, Bristlecone Loop-   Starting from the lower parking lot accessing the trail, the group will proceed up the forest service road in a counter clockwise direction.  Assuming there is not any snow to impede us on the upper wooded portion of the trail, we will complete the moderate loop back to the vehicles for a distance of 6 miles.  If we run into any major impediments we will turn the hike into an out-and-back trek.  In either event the pace will be somewhat leisurely so participants can enjoy the wooded scenery of the higher Spring Mountains.  Meet the group at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator- Chris Dempsey.   

Saturday, April 30th, Rocky Gorge Loop- This is a moderately strenuous trail loop of 9 miles with around 1,500 feet of elevation gain. It begins and ends at the Blue Tree Campground Road on Lee Canyon Road and travels through an interesting "mini-gorge" of limestone. The high point is up in the Sawmill Trail system. Meet at the Santa Fe Casino for an 8:30 AM departure. Coordinator- Kay Blackwell