January 2014 Hike List

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

The January schedule basically includes hikes in the Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead areas, but there are a scattering of scheduled events in other parts of the city and southern Nevada.  Of note are three hikes in Valley of Fire State Park about 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas and one hike in Gold Butte which is even farther.  Here are the major assembly points for all locations.

Red Rock Canyon Area.  Due to the postings restricting parking at the Albertsons location, we have moved our main assembly point to the Red Rock Casino on Charleston Boulevard just east of 215.  To access the meeting spot, turn into the casino property at the signalized intersection directly across from Canyon Pointe, turn right at the t-intersection, and immediately turn right into the lot.  We will be parking at the north end of the lot along Charleston Boulevard.  Whenever Red Rock area hikes start from Highway 160, there will be a secondary pickup point for south side participants.  That location is at the gas station at the intersection of Highways 159 and 160.  Generally, this will be a brief stop which will occur about twenty-five minutes after the departure from Red Rock Casino.

Lake Mead South.  For all hikes on the south side of the lake the general meeting spot will be at the Henderson Fiesta Casino.  At this location, we will be meeting close to the large outdoor sign in front of the property.  Henderson Fiesta is located on Lake Mead Parkway just east of the junction of I-215 and I-515.  Lake Mead Parkway is actually the east bound extension of I-215.  There will also be an earlier assembly point for these hikes at Red Rock Casino, with directions listed above, and there could be local stopping points after the group leaves Henderson Fiesta.  These stopping points will be listed in the appropriate hike descriptions.

Lake Mead North.  For hikes on the north side of the lake, along with those going to Valley of Fire and Gold Butte, 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 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 for hikes on the north side of the lake 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 Mile Marker 4 of Northshore Road inside the recreation area for Lake Mead hikes.

Valley of Fire and Gold Butte.  For hikes northeast of Las Vegas, the primary assembly point will be in the parking lot of Lucky Club Casino.  This casino is located on the east side of I-15 at the Cheyenne Avenue exit and on the north side of Cheyenne.  Participants getting there from northbound I-15 will have to cross several traffic lanes just after the exit ramp to make a left turn into the property.  As mentioned above, Rampart Casino will be the early west side assembly points for these hikes.

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 some 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 time.

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 ones that guarantee a fairly leisurely pace.  Strenuous Tuesday hikes are only open to qualified experienced hikers.  Be sure to wear appropriate clothing, footwear, and hats and bring sunscreen, water, electrolyte replacement fluids as needed, and food or snacks for each outing.

Questions regarding general information about any of the hikes should be directed to Chris Dempsey at dempseylv@aol.com or by telephone at (702) 823-2355.  Specific questions regarding hikes should be directed to the listed coordinator.  Refer to the club roster for contact information. 

Wednesday, January 1 - Krafft Mountain.  Begin the new year with a hike in the Calico Basin area.  The route will head along the east side of the Calico Hills and climb to the saddle at the top of Five Stop Hill.  Some of the group may decide to turn around at this point and head back to the vehicles, making the distance of the out-and-back option about 3 miles with a moderate rating.  The rest of the group will scramble over the top of the peak and descend by a different route on the west side that involves minimal exposure and Class 3 terrain.  This option will cover 4 miles with 1,100 feet of elevation gain and a strenuous rating.  Departure will be from Red Rock Casino at 10:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

Thursday, January 2 - Virlis Fisher & Bridge Spring Arches.  The starting point for this strenuous 5-mile loop hike is along State Highway 165 on the way to the small community of Nelson south of Boulder City.  Less than one mile of the route is on trail and there is quite a bit of rough terrain to negotiate.  The climb to Virlis Fisher Arch, located on a limestone ridge, is steep and has some exposure.  The difficulty doesn't ease much until the last stretch leaving the sandstone Bridge Spring Arch, a site certainly worth a photograph.  The early west side group will leave from Red Rock Casino at 7:20 AM, with the complete group departing from Henderson Fiesta at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

Friday, January 3 - Anniversary Narrows.  Visit the site of a fairly large colmanite mine on this moderate 5 or 6-mile partial loop hike on the north side of Lake Mead.  Starting from the gravel pullout at Mile Marker 16 on Northshore Road, the group will follow a gravel road past Ore Car Mine before visiting the processing site for the Anniversary Mine on a ledge above Lovell Wash.  After exploring the general mine area, the group will trek through the slot canyon in the drainage above the mine to the snack break spot, return through the narrows, and follow Lovell Wash back to the starting point.  Early west side group will leave from the top floor of the Rampart Casino parking garage at 7:20 AM.  The main assembly point is the CVS parking lot on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood with an 8:00 AM departure.  There will also be a pass through at the Mile Marker 4 pullout along Northshore Road to pick up south side participants about 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Judy Warner.

Saturday, January 4 - Black Mountain Overlook.  A well maintained city trail constitutes the route to the top of Black Mountain Overlook Peak on this moderate 6-mile out-and-back hike with 1,100 feet of elevation gain.  From the peak participants will not only get a great view of Boulder Basin in Lake Mead, but the entire city of Las Vegas is laid out to the northwest with the Spring Mountains and snow-covered Mount Charleston providing a great backdrop.  The early west side assembly point is at Red Rock Casino.  That subgroup will leave at 7:20 AM to join the main group at Henderson Fiesta with an 8:00 AM departure for the combined group.  Boulder City residents can head straight to the trailhead parking lot next to St. Jude Children's Ranch, where the hike will start around 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

Saturday, January 4 - Valley of Fire White Domes & Fire Wave.  A leisurely hike covering 3.5 miles with 600 feet of elevation gain will begin at the end of the scenic road in Valley of Fire State Park.  The route passes the old set location used in the movie "The Professionals" before turning into a wash containing several colorful and beautiful slot canyons.  On the return, the hike follows another wash through the imposing White Domes and loops back to the starting point.  Overall, the rating should be easy to moderate.  An early west side group can assemble on the top floor of the Rampart Casino parking garage, leaving at 8:00 AM.  The main group, including the coordinator, will be in the parking lot of Lucky Club Casino, located on the northeast corner of the junction of I-15 and Cheyenne.  That group departure will be at 8:30 AM and there will be a stop at the Indian Smoke Shop at the I-15 exit about 9:00 AM before heading toward the park.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

Sunday, January 5 - Black Velvet Canyon.  The focal destination for this strenuous 9-mile loop hike is one of those deep canyons penetrating the Wilson Cliffs on the west side of Red Rock Canyon and Cottonwood Valley.  Like its northern neighbors, this canyon includes lots of serious boulder scrambling over a relatively short distance.  The trail getting to the canyon is quite level with no appreciable difficulty, but the return trail has a bit more in terms of rolling terrain.  The primary assembling point will be at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure.  There will be a secondary stop at the gas station at the intersection of Highways 159 and 160 about 8:25 AM to pick up south side participants.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

Monday, January 6 - Mountain Spring Peak.  This strenuous 7-mile loop hike begins near the pass on Highway 160 at Mountain Spring Summit and follows a gravel service road to a single track trail that leads to the limestone ridge behind the southern end of the Wilson Cliffs.  Elevation gain on the way to the peak is 1,300 feet, and there will be exceptional views of Las Vegas and the entire area from the top.  The return portion of the hike bushwhacks a ridge back to Rainbow Springs Road, then passes a couple of springs on the way back to the vehicles.  The primary group will leave Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM and pick up any south side participants at the gas station at the junction of Highways 159 and 160 about 8:25 AM.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

Tuesday, January 7 - Frenchman's Mountain.  The imposing double peak on the east side on the valley is the target for the very strenuous Tuesday option this week, which gains nearly 2,000 feet over an out-and-back route that is only 4 miles in total length.  The route for this summit attack is a steep canyon up the northwest side of the mountain that includes quite a bit of Class 3 terrain and some exposure.  One section even uses a steel cable atop a ramped ledge to assist with the climb and the descent.  The narrow ridge at the top provides sensational views of Las Vegas and Lake Mead.  West side departure from Rampart Casino parking garage is at 7:20 AM for the main assembly point at the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood and an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

Tuesday, January 7 - Dale's Trail.  One of the most scenic through trails in Red Rock is this segment of the Escarpment Base Trail connecting Pine Creek and Ice Box Canyon trails.  The southern part of Dale's rolls through a series of ridges and drainages, passing Skull Rock just north of Pine Creek Trail.  The moderate out-and-back hike will originate at the Ice Box trailhead parking area and cover a distance between 5 and 6 miles.  After the Pine Creek Trail is reached, the group will turn toward the canyon and take a snack break near the old Wilson homestead foundation before returning to the vehicles.  Meeting location will be Red Rock Casino with an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

Wednesday, January 8 - Gorman Little Grand Canyon.  I changed the name of this destination from Siena Little Grand Canyon because it is much closer to the campus of Bishop Gorman High School than the community of Siena.  Like our previous exploration of this canyon, we will hike as far as we can into the canyon, stopping below an impressive seasonal waterfall in a hidden alcove.  Unlike the previous exploration, we will then back track and climb through a notch above the lower section of cliffs and explore the area beyond the waterfall.  Distance will probably be about 5 miles with potentially a moderately strenuous rating.  The assembled group will leave from Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

Thursday, January 9 - CCC & Painted Pinnacles Loop in Valley of Fire.  This newly designed loop hike starts at the Conservation Corps Cabins at Valley of Fire and climbs onto a plateau that leads all the way to the Painted Pinnacles.  From that location the group will take a new route southeast, eventually joining up with the north fork of the sandy Valley of Fire Wash and then heading back toward the starting point.  The hike will cover a total distance of close to 5 miles with an elevation gain of a few hundred feet, but there will be the usual VOF scrambling over and around boulders.  Rating should probably be moderately strenuous.  The early west side group will leave Rampart Casino at 7:15 AM and join the main group at Lucky Club Casino and a 7:45 AM departure.  Coordinator - Brian Dodd.

Friday, January 10 - Moenkopi/Angel Canyon Loop.  This moderate loop hike will start from the fee booth parking lot in Red Rock Canyon, pass the Visitor Center, and continue on to the Moenkopi Trail in a clockwise direction.  After leaving the overlook bench on top of Moenkopi Ridge, the route will head across to Calico I Overlook, take the lower trail past Calico II, and do some minor scrambling up to the carving in Angel Canyon.  The final return will be along the Calico Hills Trail, which should make the total distance close to 5 miles.  Departure from Red Rock Casino will be at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.

Friday, January 10 - Black Mountain (Henderson).  The more strenuous option for this Friday will find a group heading up the volcanic rock trail to one of the peaks in the McCullough Range.  With 2,100 feet of elevation gain, this 6-mile out-and-back hike will provide a great workout for those who attempt the climb.  At the top the expansive view stretches all the way to Searchlight to the south and Mount Charleston to the north.  A west side group will also depart from Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM to join the main group at the Walgreens located at the intersection of Anthem Parkway and Hampton Road for an 8:45 AM start.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

Saturday, January 11 - Railroad Pass Mountain Loop.  A moderate hike of 5 miles with 900 feet of elevation gain, this trek begins at Railroad Pass Casino, climbs for a short distance on the mountain behind the hotel, then begins a loop around the mountain.  The trail rambles past the top of Cascata Golf Course and its waterfall and provides lots of scenic views of the Boulder City area.  The early west side group will leave Red Rock Casino at 7:20 AM and join the main group at Henderson Fiesta.  The combined group will then depart at 8:00 AM.  Boulder City residents should plan on being at the Railroad Pass Casino by 8:10 AM to take part.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

Saturday, January 11 - Bluff Trail.  An easy to moderate ramble is the best description for this relatively short 2-mile out-and-back hike on the west side of Lake Mead.  Starting from the campground accessed from Lakeshore Road, the trail follows the Las Vegas Wash upstream from its entrance into the lake, staying on a ridge above the stream on the south bank.  Even though the terrain is not particularly high there are great views, including one of Las Vegas itself.  Limited parking at the trailhead makes maximum carpooling essential.  Anyone gathering at Red Rock Casino should leave for Fiesta Henderson by 7:50 AM.  The group assembled at Fiesta Henderson will leave there at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Nienaber.

Sunday, January 12 - Gold Butte Petroglyph Hike.  Join our coordinators for a moderately strenuous ramble of 7.5 miles with less than 1,000 feet of elevation gain that passes a significant aggregation of petroglyphs.  The drive to Gold Butte is around ninety minutes each way and includes about two miles of high clearance road.  After passing several sets of sandstone hills containing small groupings of petroglyphs, the route turns past Khota Circus, which is the largest petroglyph panel in Clark County.  On the return there is some scrambling in a fun slot crack.  Early west side participants can meet at Rampart Casino.  They should leave there at 7:30 AM and head for Lucky Club Casino, where the main group will gather.  Departure time there will be 8:00 AM.  Bring high clearance vehicles if you have them.  Coordinators - John & Kay Blackwell.

Monday, January 13 - Boneshaker & Skull Canyon.  This moderate 6-mile loop hike starts with a fairly steep climb up the tough ridge trail known as Boneshaker in the first mile of the hike.  From the top of the first ridge onward there are expansive views of Red Rock Canyon and Cottonwood Valley, with the new Las Vegas Overlook waiting at the highest point, some 1,500 feet above the start.  Descent will be through dramatic Skull Canyon.  Departure time from Red Rock Casino will be at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

Tuesday, January 14 - Anniversary Narrows, Peak & Bowl of Fire Loop.  After the usual walk through the narrows, the group will continue up the wash, turning right on a side ridge that climbs to the narrow ridge that Anniversary Peak sits atop.  There is a little exposure in the peak area but most people will handle it without any problem.  On the descent the group will head east into Bowl of Fire, then follow Calville Wash back to the vehicles.  Total distance is 9 miles with 2,300 feet of elevation gain and a strenuous rating.  The early west side group will leave from Rampart Casino at 7:20 AM, the combined group will leave from CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard & Hollywood at 8:00 AM, and there will be a quick stop at Mile Marker 4 on Northshore Road at 8:15 AM to pick up any south side participants.  Coordinator - Brian Dodd.

Tuesday, January 14 - Potato Knoll.  The alternate hike this Tuesday is a moderate 5-mile partial loop hike that is generally level but includes a short and steep climb up to the top of the 500-foot hill sitting in the shadow of Wilson Peak.  The snack break will occur on the sandstone outcroppings at the south end of the top, which will afford nice views of the Red Rock Canyon and Cottonwood Valley areas.  Also, the system of trails used crosses Oak Creek on four occasions, but we might need some good precipitation if there is any chance to see flowing water.  Departure time from Red Rock Casino will be 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

Thursday, January 16 - Bootleg Ridge.  Beginning at the zip line north of Boulder City, the route follows the Mother Loop Trail to the apex of a saddle, then turns sharply right to gain the ridge above.  The ridge trail will take the group over several small peaks before turning left for the descent, and finishes on sections of West Leg Trail and Girl Scout Trail returning to the vehicles.  Rating for this hike is strenuous as it covers a total distance of 7 miles and gains 1,800 feet of elevation.  Departure times are 7:20 AM from Red Rock Casino for the west side group, followed by 8:00 AM from the general meeting location at Henderson Fiesta.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

Friday, January 17 - Juniper Peak.  This very strenuous hike will start from the Oak Creek trailhead inside the Red Rock scenic drive accessed by the gravel road near Mile Marker 12.  There is desert trail, bushwhacking, bouldering, Class 3 scrambling with a rabbit hole and some exposure, and a breathtaking view from the peak.  Total distance is about 8 miles with 2,000 feet of elevation gain and the outing should take seven to eight hours.  Departure from Red Rock Casino will be early at 7:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

Friday, January 17 - Oak Creek/Knoll/Arnight Loop.  The more laid back hike for this Friday will begin at the gravel parking lot where the Red Rock scenic drive exits back onto Highway 159.  The first of the official trails incorporated into the route will be the Oak Creek Trail from the gravel lot off the scenic drive at Mile Marker 12.  Before getting to Oak Creek Canyon, the group will turn right on Knoll Trail, then turn right again on the Arnight Trail back to the gravel lot.  Total distance will be between 5 and 6 miles.  Although the terrain rolls somewhat, there is probably only a couple hundred feet of elevation gain, so the rating is moderate.  The group will assemble at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.

Saturday, January 18 - Liberty Bell Arch.  One of the most popular moderate hikes in the Lake Mead area is this 5 or 6-mile hike that follows an out-and-back route from the new parking area along Highway 93.  The group will begin by following a wash into the top portion of White Rock Canyon and turn right through a series of interconnected washes on a recently established trail that intersects the old trail going past the arch.  The remains of a manganese mine provide a historical reference to the area and the arch itself is a geologic wonder.  The snack break will occur at the turn around point on a broad ledge 700 feet above the Colorado River.  The west side group will leave Red Rock Casino at 7:20 AM for the main assembly point at Henderson Fiesta, from which the entire group will depart at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

Saturday, January 18 - Lakeshore Trail.  The leisurely hike this Saturday will be an easy to moderate outing of about 3 miles round trip that will follow a trail at the Las Vegas Marina boat ramp and head along the shore of Lake Mead to the Hole 33 parking area and back.  This section of the lake sees a lot of fishing action, both by boat and from the shore, and it is also frequented by a variety of waterfowl.  The west side group can carpool from Red Rock Casino at 7:50 AM.  The main gathering point will be at Henderson Fiesta where the coordinator will be stationed prior to the hike.  The full group will leave for the hike at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Nienaber.

Sunday, January 19 - Terrace Canyon.  Perhaps the most spectacular hike in all of Red Rock is this very strenuous 6-mile out-and-back hike that gains close to 1,600 feet of elevation.  Other than the opening part of the hike across the desert along the Pine Creek Trail, the rest of the hike consists of nearly five miles of boulder scrambling in the canyons of the south fork of Pine Creek to reach the dramatic terraces at the top end.  The boulders that must be climbed over are sometimes in the 15-foot range and participants should definitely be in shape.  The group will depart at 8:00 AM from the assembly point at Red Rock Casino.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

Monday, January 20 - White Rock/Sandstone Loop.  The Martin Luther Holiday will actually provide members with a couple of options.  The first one is a trail hike, except for some moderate downhill scrambling in a narrow wash, that starts from Sandstone Quarry, gaining 1,700 feet in the process.  Rated moderately strenuous, the loop route covers a total distance of 7 miles and climbs beyond the Keystone Thrust area, getting fairly close to La Madre Mountain.  The downhill portion of the hike provides exceptional views of Turtlehead and the Calico Hills.  Red Rock Casino will be the gathering point with an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

Monday, January 20 - Fern Canyon.  The second option this Monday is considered more of a scrambling hike even though the majority of the route is covered on trail.  A moderately strenuous out-and-back hike of 5 miles will take the participants into the North Fork of Pine Creek, one of the few places in the Las Vegas area where ferns grow naturally.  Although probably less than one mile of the distance, there will be bushwhacking and boulder scrambling, with the boulders generally in the size range from four to ten feet.  The snack break will occur near a trickling waterfall above a pond.  This group will also meet at Red Rock Casino with a departure time of 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

Tuesday, January 21 - Gold Strike Hot Springs.  The out-and-back hike to what is often referred to as the Nevada Hot Springs is located in the vicinity of the former Hacienda Casino and Hotel along Highway 93.  It is rated moderately strenuous and has an elevation change of 1,000 feet on the descent down to the river, which must be climbed on the way back.  Much of the route is classified as scrambling with most of that on the canyon floor.  There are several areas that drop over boulders with fixed ropes in place to make the descent and the climb out.  The west side group should leave from Red Rock Casino at 7:20 AM and meet the coordinator along with other participants at Henderson Fiesta for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - John Blackwell.

Wednesday, January 22 - Lone Grapevine Spring.  This moderate partial loop hike of 5 miles is mostly on multi-use trails in Cottonwood Valley that were originally developed by mountain bikers.  The elevation gain of a few hundred feet occurs on the return leg of the hike.  The drainage below the springs is a historic site involving scores of petroglyphs found on boulders lying on the ground that probably span at least 1,000 years.  This will be a joint outing with Lone Mountain Hiking Club, which will assemble at Desert Vista Community Center in Sun City Summerlin for an 8:00 AM departure.  The ABF coordinator will be at that site.  Around the Bend Friends participants should leave Red Rock Casino at 8:05 AM and meet the LMHC contingent at the gravel parking lot where the Red Rock scenic drive exits back onto the highway.  There will be an additional stop at the gas station at the intersection of Highways 159 and 160 to pick up any south side participants at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

Thursday, January 23 - Fortification Hill.  A dark black mound on the southern shore of Lake Mead near the dam, Fortification Hill shows evidence of having a volcanic crater as well as being a drift pile from eruptions to its south.  In any event, the top of the mountain is the goal for this strenuous 4-mile out-and-back hike that gains about 1,200 feet.  Hands are required in a few places when the route climbs through the cliffs surrounding the top plateau and there is some very steep trail climbing to that point for which hiking sticks are quite helpful.  High clearance vehicles are essential for the gravel road in from the highway.  Hikers leaving from Red Rock Casino should do so by 7:20 AM and the full group will leave from Henderson Fiesta at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

Friday, January 24 - Hoover Dam & Bridge.  Eliminating the hike through the tunnels reduces the total distance of this easy to moderate partial loop hike to about 4 miles.  Instead of Alan Bible Visitor Center, it will begin from the Lake Mead Observation Point sitting directly on top Tunnel #5.  From that lot, participants will drop onto the regular trail and follow the newly opened section of trail that passes the Boneyard on the way to the dam.  On the return, the group will cross the new bridge overlooking the dam before returning to the starting point.  West side participants will depart from Red Rock Casino at 7:20 AM and the entire group will leave from Henderson Fiesta at 8:00 AM, arriving at the starting point of the hike about 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Judy Warner.

Saturday, January 25 - Signature Rock Loop.  This moderate to strenuous hike is about 9 miles in length over generally moderate terrain with a few steep areas.  Starting from Mile Marker 18 on Northshore Road, it proceeds into Pinto Valley, visits Signature Rock, and returns through an interesting wash near the Chocolate Hills.  West side participants should meet at Rampart Casino for a 7:20 AM departure and join the main group at CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood.  That combined group will leave at 8:00 AM and join the coordinators and any other south side participants at the Mile Marker 4 pullout along Northshore Road about 8:15 AM before heading to the starting point of the hike.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

Saturday, January 25 - Anniversary Mine.  For the leisurely hike this Saturday the group will be doing the short version of the hike past the recently reopened Anniversary Mine in the foothills of the Muddy Mountains.  To get to the starting point, vehicles will have to travel about a mile along a gravel road and park near Ore Car Mine, an agate mining area on a plateau south of the Muddy Mountains.  High clearance vehicles are not required for this road.  The hike itself will be a moderate 4-mile out-and-back effort that enters the wash and proceeds into the slot canyon known as Anniversary Narrows.  West side group should leave from Rampart Casino at 7:50 AM, join the main group at CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood for an 8:30 AM departure, and pick up any remaining south side participants at Mile Marker 4 of Northshore Road about 8:45 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Nienaber.

Sunday, January 26 - River Mountains Trail - Part 1.  It's back by popular demand!  Well, at least two people have expressed an interest in slogging the 34 miles around the River Mountains over three successive Sundays.  In Part 1 the group will be doing the uphill portion starting at the lower parking lot at the Alan Bible Visitor Center, passing features such as St. Jude Children's Home, the base of the Boulder City zip line, and the back side of the Veterans Home on the way to the finish at Railroad Pass Casino.  This point-to-point paved stretch is about 10 miles long, gains something over 1,000 feet, and is rated moderately strenuous (only because of the distance).  For this segment, the early west side group will meet at Red Rock Casino for a 7:00 AM departure and drive to Railroad Pass Casino on Highway 93, where the main group will gather and take some of the vehicles down to the starting point at 7:45 AM.  This eliminates Henderson Fiesta as an additional assembly point.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

Sunday, January 26 - Strip Tourist Walk - Part 2.  The outing this Sunday will be different from the one scheduled on December 29, but you can still pretend that you are a visitor to our fair city on this 4 hour walk from Flamingo to Desert Inn and back.  This outing will start in daylight and finish under the neon lights.  Highlights will be viewing the new Project Linq mall and the observation wheel currently under construction.  It will be easy Class 1 terrain consisting of sidewalks, stairs, and escalators, with the only exposure coming from adult advertising.  More details will be provided by separate e-mail after the Part 1 outing.  Departure from Rampart Casino will be at 3:00 PM with the meeting location on the strip yet to be determined.  The tentative time for the start of the walk is at 3:30 PM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

Monday, January 27 - Cottonwood Spring Loop.  This generally moderate hike is 4 to 5 miles in length but includes some uphill grades and a little scrambling.  The route heads up to Cottonwood Spring from the starting point at Mile Marker 18 along Northshore Road and turns right into the wash toward Hamblin Mountain.  Instead of continuing toward Hamblin, it turns left into the colorful wash going back to Cottonwood Spring that includes portions of the old Arrowhead Highway route.  West side participants should leave Rampart Casino at 7:20 AM, meet the main group at CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood for an 8:00 AM departure, then join the coordinators and any other south side participants at the Mile Marker 4 pullout along Northshore Road about 8:15 AM before heading to the starting point of the hike.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

Tuesday, January 28 - Turtlehead Peak.  For a change the pace will slow from the usual hectic Tuesday efforts to accommodate more participants.  The strenuous 5-mile out-and-back hike begins at Sandstone Quarry, passes through some colorful sandstone formations near a broad drainage, then continues up a steep trail to the saddle behind the peak.  Once at the saddle, a trail on the back side of the mountain leads to the top.  Overall, the elevation gain is at 1,900 feet.  Hiking sticks are recommended due to the steep and loose conditions of the trail and long pants provide some protection against the brush.  The assembled group will depart from Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

Wednesday, January 29 - Extended Mouse's Tank Loop in Valley of Fire.  It's been a couple of seasons since the club has done this loop hike, so it's time to resurrect it.  The hike can either be done as a 4-mile or a 5.5-mile loop and has gross elevation gain of 500 feet in either case, so the rating should probably be categorized as moderate.  Starting at the Mouse's Tank parking lot the group will head north to start, turn east over some red sandstone, and enter Fire Canyon Wash.  At 1.5 miles into the hike the group will have to decide which of the above distances to cover.  The return leg of the hike comes back past Mouse's Tank.  This will be a joint outing with Lone Mountain Hiking Club, so that contingent should leave Desert Vista Community Center in Sun City Summerlin at 7:10 AM, west side Around the Bend Friends participants should leave Rampart Casino at 7:15 AM, and both groups will head for the general meeting location at Lucky Club Casino.  Departure of the combined groups will be at 7:45 AM.  Coordinator - Brian Dodd.

Thursday, January 30 - Arizona Hot Springs.  This will be a moderately strenuous loop hike from the new parking lot along Highway 93 to the edge of the Colorado River and back up through the hot pools at the springs.  The descent will be through gravel filled White Rock Canyon, which leads directly to the river.  The group will then follow the river downstream for a short distance and use the next canyon for the climb out.  After a break next to the river, the group will follow that canyon upstream, climb a 20-foot ladder bolted to the rock wall, and wade through the hot pools.  Hiking shoes will need to be removed and you can either wear water shoes or pass through the pools barefooted.  In either case, bring a towel to dry off.  The early west side group will leave Red Rock Casino at 7:20 AM.  Departure from the general assembly point at Henderson Fiesta will be at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - John Blackwell.

Friday, January 31 - Calico Tanks Extended.  Finishing off the month of January is a moderately strenuous hike from Sandstone Quarry that heads toward the Ash Canyon Overlook.  After getting through the sandstone area the group will turn left in the direction of Turtlehead, then turn left again and follow a slot canyon back toward the Calico Tanks area.  There is one 5 or 6-foot dry waterfall to negotiate in the slot, which leads back to Calico Tanks Trail and a return to the vehicles.  Total distance is probably in the range of 4 to 5 miles.  Meet the other participants at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.

December 2013 Hike List

Starting in December we are adding hikes in the Lake Mead area to our schedule.  This will complicate the assembly locations a bit as there are different sites used depending on whether hikes are on the north or south sides of the lake.  All assembly points are indicated below.

 

Red Rock Canyon Area - The assembly point for Red Rock hikes is in the parking lot of the shopping center that contains an Albertsons Grocery and a Dunkin Donuts retail outlet.  This shopping center is located at the intersection of Charleston Boulevard (Highway 159) and Desert Foothills Drive, about one-half mile west of CR215.  If you are driving west on Charleston you can turn into the shopping center before you get to the stoplight at Desert Foothills.  Generally, we will be parking between the two commercial establishments but somewhat closer to Dunkin Donuts.  For hikes south of Red Rock, there will be a secondary meeting point at the gas station at the intersection of Highways 159 and 160.  Generally, there will be pickup only at this location about twenty minutes after the departure time indicated in each hike write-up.

 

Lake Mead South - For all hikes on the south side of the lake, there will generally be an early west side assembly point at the Albertsons Shopping Center indicated above.  There may not be a coordinator at this location, so the group might have to depart on their own.  The general assembly point will be under the large outdoor sign in front of Henderson Fiesta Casino, located on Lake Mead Parkway on the east side of I-515 and directly east of the end of I-215.  This is the location that the main group will depart from according to the time indicated in each applicable hike description.  There may also be some later pickup locations which will be referred to in the descriptions.

 

Lake Mead North - For all hikes on the north side of the lake, there will be an early west side assembly point on the top level of the Rampart Casino parking garage.  This casino is located on Rampart Boulevard just south of Summerlin Parkway.  Again, there may not be a coordinator at this location.  The general assembly point will be in the parking lot behind a CVS Pharmacy located at the southeast corner of the intersection of Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood, and this is the site which applies to the general departure time indicated in the applicable descriptions.  There will also be a secondary pickup point at the parking area located on the south side of Northshore Road at Mile Marker 4.

 

Valley of Fire - For hikes northeast of Las Vegas in Valley of Fire State Park, the Rampart Casino parking garage will again be used as an early assembly point.  The general meeting location will be in the parking lot of Lucky Club Casino, located on the east side of I-15 at the Cheyenne Avenue exit.  If traveling northbound on I-15 to this location, you will have to cross several traffic lanes to turn left at the casino.

 

IMPORTANT NOTE - 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 time.

 

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 ones that guarantee a fairly leisurely pace.  Strenuous Tuesday hikes are only open to qualified experienced hikers.  Be sure to wear appropriate clothing, footwear, and hats and bring sunscreen, water, electrolyte replacement fluids as needed, and food or snacks for each outing.

 

Questions regarding any of the hikes should be directed to Chris Dempsey at dempseylv@aol.com or by telephone at (702) 823-2355.

 

 

Sunday, December 1 - Brownstone Canyon.  The group will be tackling a strenuous loop hike of about 8 miles in length to open the last month of 2013.  Starting from Sandstone Quarry, the route drops into Gateway Canyon and proceeds up that canyon to a colorful grouping of sandstone formations before dropping into Brownstone near an extensive protected pictograph wall.  This descent involves significant scrambling with some exposure.  The remainder of the hike follows the canyon north, crosses a saddle, and accesses Red Rock Canyon using a series of drainages.  Assembly point is at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard with a 7:30 AM departure time.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, December 2 - Ice Box Canyon.  This moderate out-and-back hike is a bit longer than the regular version as it will begin at the Lost Creek trailhead and utilize the SMYC Trail in both directions.  At approximately 4 miles in length, the route consists roughly of 75% trail and 25% moderate boulder scrambling in the drainage.  The snack break location at the turn around point is on a ledge below a 40-foot seasonal waterfall.  Meet the other participants at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

 

Tuesday, December 3 - Valley of Fire High Point.  This strenuous 5-mile hike begins at Mouse's Tank and provides a serious off-trail experience that includes an intense scramble to the highest elevation point in the red sandstone of Valley of Fire.  While net elevation gain is only about 1,000 feet, the hike is rated as very strenuous because it involves clambering up sandstone ledges to the peak in addition to the usual VOF scrambling and sandy terrain.  The early west side group will leave Rampart Casino at 7:15 AM to join the main group meeting at Lucky Club Casino for a 7:45 AM departure.  Coordinator - Brian Dodd.

 

Wednesday, December 4 - La Madre Miner's Cabin.  Perched on a ledge high above La Madre Springs is a stone shelter constructed by an unknown miner who dug several shafts into the side of the ridge above the cabin, probably in search of lead.  The 5-mile out-and-back trek gains 1,600 feet of elevation and includes a bit of steep and slippery trail after crossing a creek above the wildlife pond at the base of the springs.  Overall, the rating for this hike is moderately strenuous.  The group will be gathering at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard for a departure at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Thursday, December 5 - Bird Spring Range.  A strenuous 7-mile loop hike in the set of small mountains east of Mount Potosi will gain 1,500 feet as it climbs to the highest point in the range, with the steepest climb beyond Badger Pass being off-trail.  Along the upper ridge participants will get to view an abundance of ancient seabed fossils before descending to a saddle on the main ridge overlooking the Wilson Tank area.  One final steep climb leads to a more gradual descent back to the main trail and a return through Red Valley on Deadhorse Trail.  Departure from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard will be at 7:30 AM with a secondary stop at the gas station on Highway 160 to pick up south side participants about 7:50 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Friday, December 6 - Guardian Angel Pass/Red Springs/Slab Rift Loop.  The first of two options today will begin from Red Springs Picnic Area, climb through a saddle in the Calico Hills, and descend past the angel carving into Red Rock Canyon.  After scrambling south to a point below Calico I Overlook, the group will climb towards Red Springs Peak on the back side of Grand Staircase, visit Slab Rift, and descend on the sandstone back to the parking lot.  The loop hike is about 4 miles in length and is rated strenuous due to the amount of Class 3 scrambling and a bit of exposure, taking about four or five hours to complete.  Departure from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard will be at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

 

Friday, December 6 - Blue Diamond Bike Trails.  The alternate hike for this Friday will be a moderate 5-mile loop starting from the community of Blue Diamond along a remnant of the Old Spanish Trail.  The gradual 700-foot climb up the ridge behind the town leads to the snack break on an unusual sandstone outcropping looking down on the descent trail.  The return to the starting point will utilize the shorter approach on the north side of a drainage past a 10-foot limestone waterfall ledge.  This group will also depart from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard at 8:00 AM, so make sure you sign in on the correct sheet.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Saturday, December 7 - China Ranch Date Farm.  An early winter season outing into California provides a great excuse to partake in the delicious date shakes offered at the snack bar at the ranch.  The primary hike offering will be a moderate 6-mile point-to-point effort along the Amargosa River from Tecopa Post Office.  Participants are urged to wear long pants because of the amount of brush along the way.  Car shuttling will be necessary, and those taking the vehicles back to China Ranch will enjoy an easy to moderate trek across the river to a hidden waterfall in a side alcove.  The group will leave Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard at 7:30 AM and pick up any south side participants at the gas station at the intersection of Highways 159 and 160 for a full group departure at 8:00 AM.  The drive to Tecopa is about one hour.  Coordinators - Jim Billetdeaux and Lorraine Stalians.

 

Saturday, December 7 - Fossil Ridge Extended.  For those members planning on staying in the Las Vegas, we will also be offering our regular hikes in the Red Rock area.  The early hike for the day will be a moderate 6-mile hike that starts up the Bunny Trail from the Cowboy Stables parking lot along Highway 159.  After reaching the abandoned mining road at the top of the ridge, the group will continue along trails established by mountain bikers to the base of a tailings dump, then follow the regular Fossil Ridge Trail back to the starting point.  Participants will be leaving from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - John Stewart.

 

Saturday, December 7 - Calico Tanks.  The last hike of the day will be the moderate 3-mile out-and-back trek up a canyon in the Calico Hills that many consider to be Red Rock's signature hike.  There is about 700 feet of elevation gain reaching the natural depression in the sandstone that constitutes the tank or tinaja.  Since the tank will probably be dry, a path across it leads to a ridge above Ash Canyon that provides great views of Calico Basin, the south half of Las Vegas, and a portion of Lake Mead (on a clear day).  Meet the others in this group at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Sunday, December 8 - Red Cap Back Door.  You need to have a real appreciation for serious scrambling if you plan on doing this very strenuous 5-mile hike through the Calico Hills.  It will begin at Red Springs Picnic Area and head north along the Calico Hills, beginning the significant climb in Ash Canyon and continuing up the north chute to Red Cap.  After descending the peak to the south, the group will continue along the high ridge to Calico Peak.  Then it's a tricky descent onto the saddle at Guardian Angel Pass and more scrambling down to the valley floor.  Class 3 terrain with exposure is in abundance.  The group will leave at 8:00 AM from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Monday, December 9 - Dale's Trail.  One of the most scenic through trails in Red Rock is this segment of the Escarpment Base Trail connecting Pine Creek and the Ice Box Trail.  The southern part of the trail rolls through a series of ridges and drainages, passing Skull Rock just north of Pine Creek Trail.  More than likely, this moderate out-and-back hike will begin at the Ice Box trailhead and cover a distance of 5 miles.  Assembly point will be at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard with an 8:00 AM departure time.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

 

Tuesday, December 10 - Baby Wilson Scramble.  The target for this strenuous outing is a small outcropping on the east side of Wilson Peak.  The group will start this strenuous 4-mile loop effort with 1,800 feet of elevation gain from a small pullout along Highway 159 between the Oak Creek and First Creek pullouts.  It will include a significant amount of Class 3 scrambling using hands but does not have a lot of exposure.  Even so, the difficulty of the terrain means the hike should take about four hours to complete.  The group will leave from the Albertsons lot on Charleston Boulevard at 7:30 AM.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Tuesday, December 10 - Keystone Thrust Loop.  Here is an alternative for the regular tough Tuesday outings.  On this 4-mile loop hike, the gravel parking area at the beginning of White Rock Springs Road, located at Mile Marker 6 on the scenic drive, will be used as the starting point.  After climbing to the back side of Cactus Hill, the route descends onto the sandstone in Keystone Thrust Canyon for a snack break amid the colorful rock formations.  The final stages drop through the canyon and follow a short stretch of the Grand Circle Trail back to the vehicles.  Meet the other participants at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator -

Nancy Moore.

 

Wednesday, December 11 - McCullough Trail.  South of Las Vegas is the McCullough Mountains, an area our club is yet to explore.  So here we are offering something new again.  The moderate hike today is about 6 miles in length.  A new parking area for the hike is in the final stages of construction and was expected to be finished in late November.  Those coming from the west side can carpool from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard, leaving there at 7:20 AM for the Henderson Fiesta, where the main group will gather and depart at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Richard Hansen.

 

Thursday, December 12 - Two Elephants Loop.  Starting at the Elephant Rock parking lot the group will get a great view of one of the more famous sandstone formations in Valley of Fire.  From there, they will climb along the ridges to the north fork of Valley of Fire Wash, head up the wash for a short distance, then use another set of ridges to visit a sitting elephant formation.  There are a total of five climbs and descents and some scrambling, making this a moderately strenuous outing of 5 miles with 600 feet of elevation gain.  The early west side group will leave from the Rampart Casino parking garage at 7:15 AM and join the main group at Lucky Club Casino for a 7:45 AM departure.  Coordinator - Brian Dodd.

 

Friday, December 13 - Arnight/Pine Creek Loop.  The moderate hike for the day is a 6-mile loop hike that will start at the exit of the scenic loop to save gas and time instead of going around the 13-mile drive.  The route will head cross country to the Oak Creek gravel parking lot, follow the Arnight Trail over to Pine Creek, then take the short upper Pine Creek loop before backtracking to the starting point.  The group should gather at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.  

 

Friday, December 13 - Calico Tank Peak Loop.  One other hike is being offered this Friday and it is definitely not for the average recreational hiker.  Starting from the end of the road in Calico Basin, the route heads up a canyon next to Ash Canyon, stops briefly at the end of the Calico Tanks Trail, then continues to Calico Tank Peak and descends through a different canyon back to the starting point.  The hike is about 4 miles in length but is rated very strenuous due to the extensive Class 3 scrambling with exposure.  This group will also leave from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard at 8:00 AM for the trailhead.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

 

Saturday, December 14 - South Bowl of Fire.  Lake Mead hiking really begins today with a moderately strenuous hike through an area of colorful sandstone formations on the north side of the lake.  Between 5 and 6 miles long, the route for the hike begins at the Mile Marker 18 pullout on Northshore Road and heads across the desert to the sandstone at the southern base of the Muddy Mountains.  West side participants should meet and leave from Rampart Casino at 7:20 AM and join the main group at the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood for an 8:00 AM departure.  The coordinators will not be at either site, but will meet the group along with any other southeast participants at the Mile Marker 4 pullout on Northshore Drive at about 8:15 AM.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

 

Saturday, December 14 - Historic Railroad Tunnels.  What better way to start leisurely hikes in the Lake Mead area than with this easy to moderate out-and-back hike through a series of five tunnels dug along the rail line used for construction of Hoover Dam.  The section of trail terminating after the fifth tunnel is 2 miles each way for a total distance of 4 miles and probably has no more than 100 feet of elevation gain.  The early west side group should meet at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard for a 7:50 AM departure.  The main meeting location is at Henderson Fiesta and an 8:30 AM departure.  Boulder City residents should be at the lower parking area at Alan Bible Visitor Center no later than 8:45 AM to take part on the hike.  Coordinator - Lorraine Stalians.

 

Sunday, December 15 - Calico Hills Exploration.  I can't tell you what the distance of this outing in the sandstone hills on the east side of Red Rock Canyon will be because it is truly exploratory.  Our coordinator has indicated that the starting spot will be Sandstone Quarry, but beyond that the group will be trying to get to places in the hills that we don't get to with our other scrambling efforts.  Plan on a lot of scrambling, some backtracking, and a moderately strenuous rating.  The assembly point is Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard with an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Monday, December 16 - Redstone Discovery.  This Lake Mead hike is 5 miles in length and starts just past Mile Marker 25 on Northshore Road.  It is generally moderate but includes some scrambling and exploring in the red sandstone and includes some unique formations.  Since it is on the north side of the lake, the initial west side assembly point will be Rampart Casino with that group leaving at 7:20 AM for the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood and the combined group leaving there at 8:00 AM.  The coordinators and any other southeast participants will not meet the group until the final stop at Mile Marker 4 on Northshore Road around 8:15 AM.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

 

Tuesday, November 17 - Rainbow Ridge.  This strenuous 5 to 6-mile hike starts at the Mile Marker 16 parking area on Northshore Road in the Lake Mead area.  There is some steep uneven bushwhacking combined with up and down terrain that offers panoramic views of lake, mountains, and canyons.  At the end of the hike there is a steep descent through a rugged canyon back to the cars.  Like the previous day's hike, the west side group will leave at 7:20 AM from the Rampart Casino, the combined group will depart from the CVS Pharmacy at 8:00 AM, and the coordinator will be picked up at Mile Marker 4 on Northshore Road about 8:15 AM, along with any other southeast participants.  Coordinator - Chuck Hawkins.

 

Tuesday, December 17 - Badger Pass.  An alternate hike to the tough Tuesday outing will be a moderate 7-mile partial loop hike in South Cottonwood Valley that follows a number of trails established by mountain bikers.  The Late Night Trail parking lot is the starting point, with the route passing through the northern end of the Bird Spring Range.  Elevation gain is perhaps 800 feet climbing the ridge toward Badger Pass.  The main group will leave from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard at 8:00 AM and do a drive through pick-up at the gas station at the junction of Highways 159 and 160 about 8:20 AM for any south side participants.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

 

Wednesday, December 18 - Rainbow Vista Loop.  The third and last Valley of Fire hike for the month is one that our coordinator recently developed that connects Rainbow Vista with the new Silica Dome parking lot.  The route uses the Fire Canyon Overlook Trail from Rainbow Vista and loops back to the starting point from Silica Dome.  There is some scrambling, but the distance is only 3 miles with 400 feet of gain and a moderate rating.  This hike will be a joint outing with Lone Mountain Hiking Club.  Their participants will leave Desert Vista Community Center in Sun City Summerlin at 7:10 AM and ABF west side participants will leave Rampart Casino at 7:15 AM for Lucky Club Casino, where all other hikers should head.  The combined group will leave Lucky Club at 7:45 AM for Valley of Fire.  Coordinator - Brian Dodd.

 

Thursday, December 19 - Hamblin Mountain.  One of the most dynamic hikes in the Lake Mead area is this moderately strenuous trek to the top of a mountain that offers exciting views of both Boulder and Virgin Basins of the lake.  Total distance is right at 7 miles with 1,500 feet of elevation gain, and there is a slight variation on the way back that passes through a colorful canyon with remnants of the old Arrowhead Highway.  An early west side group can meet at Rampart Casino and depart at 7:20 AM for CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood, where other participants should head.  The combined group will depart from there at 8:00 AM and do a stop-and-go pickup at Mile Marker 4 on Northshore Road about 8:15 AM on the way to the starting point of the hike.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Friday, December 20 - Sandstone Canyon.  This out-and-back trek into the canyon behind Spring Mountain Ranch is about 5 miles in length and has 500 feet of elevation gain.  It starts around the pond on the west side of the ranch and works its way into the canyon, eventually dropping into the floor of the drainage for an opportunity to experience boulder scrambling.  Participants should assemble at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Jon Lubinski.

 

Saturday, December 21 - North Bowl of Fire.  This strenuous 7 to 8-mile loop hike heads for the colorful sandstone formations at the base of the Muddy Mountains and includes some serious rock scrambling and passage through a rabbit hole on the way to an overlook ledge known as Raven's Balcony.  Early west side participants should leave from Rampart Casino at 7:20 AM and join the main group at CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood.  That group will then depart at 8:00 AM and pick up the coordinators and any other southeast participants at Northshore Road Mile Marker 4 at 8:15 AM before proceeding to the trailhead.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

 

Saturday, December 21 - Rainbow Gardens.  The primary leisurely hike of the day will be a 3-mile partial loop hike that visits a colorful canyon with some unusual natural and man-made features.  Although generally rated easy to moderate, there is some more serious scrambling in the canyon that the group will take at a slower pace to make sure everyone gets through.  Anyone wanting a bit more distance can do an extension of the hike that goes down to the shore of Lake Las Vegas and stops briefly at a hidden dry waterfall in a side canyon.  This extension would increase the total distance to 5 miles and have a full moderate rating.  West side group, with the coordinator, will leave from Rampart Casino at 7:50 AM to join the other participants at CVS on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood for an 8:30 AM departure.  Southeast participants should meet the group at the junction of Lake Mead Boulevard and Northshore Road at 8:45 AM, as the drive to the hike does not pass Mile Marker 4.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Sunday, December 22 - White Owl Canyon.  This will be the long version of the hike through a slot canyon that is home to a frequent flyer owl.  It will begin near the Las Vegas Marina and follow the shoreline back toward the dam to the base of the Hole 33 parking lot.  After passing through the slot canyon, the group will head cross country through the desert, eventually making a tricky descent back toward the lake in a canyon with a few unusual formations.  Distance for the moderately strenuous loop hike is about 7 miles.  West side departure from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard is at 7:20 AM with the main gathering spot the Henderson Fiesta and an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, December 23 - Historic Railroad Tunnels.  The long version of the out-and-back hike through the five tunnels along the train route used to bring materials and men to the Hoover Dam construction site is about 7 or 8 miles in length.  The full distance depends on whether the group only goes down to the top of the dam, climbs onto the new bridge for a view of the dam, or does both.  Generally this hike is rated moderate even with the distance because there is no steep terrain and overall elevation change is not more than 500 feet.  The early group from the west side will leave from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard at 7:10 AM to meet the main group at Henderson Fiesta for a 7:45 AM departure.  They will then join the coordinator and any other Boulder City participants at the Alan Bible Visitor Center lower parking lot, with the hike starting shortly after 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Linda O'Leary.

 

Tuesday, December 24 - Anniversary Peak Loop.  This will be the counter clockwise version of the hike to the peak overlooking the Anniversary Narrows area.  From the pullout area on Northshore Road, the group will start up a deep wash and climb a crack to an upper level of South Bowl of Fire before finding the trail to the peak.  The route for the descent flows through the Narrows, then crosses a small wash near the exit to get back to the starting point.  West side participants should leave from Rampart Casino at 7:20 AM, the main group will leave CVS on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood at 8:00 AM, and there will be a drive through at the Mile Marker 4 pullout of Northshore Road about 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Wednesday, December 25 - Mystery Woman Canyon.  If you're looking for a bit of exercise before heading to those heavy Christmas dinners, then here is one that should interest you.  Mystery Woman Canyon is an offshoot about halfway up Skull Canyon that that climbs through some vertical limestone walls approaching the radio tower on Blue Diamond Hill.  Bushwhacking is the venue for about three-quarters of a mile in the canyon.  The return will be back over the top of Cave Canyon, winding up on Fossil Ridge.  Total distance for the moderate plus loop hike is 6 miles.  The group will assemble at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Thursday, December 26 - Red & Black Mountains.  The alternate route to Red Mountain through Bootleg Canyon will be used on this moderately strenuous 7-mile loop hike that provides wonderful views of Boulder Basin.  Besides the presence of mountain bikers, this route crosses under a couple of sections of the Boulder City zip line, so a glimpse of those riders is possible.  The trek to Black Mountain Overlook and the descent are essentially on the regular city trails.  Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard will be used as a west side staging point.  Departure time from that spot is 7:20 AM, with the full group assembling at Henderson Fiesta and leaving there at 8:00 AM for the trailhead.  Boulder City residents can drive directly to the River Mountains parking lot by St. Jude but must be there by 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Friday, December 27 - Siena Ridge.  The moderate hike for the last Friday of the year will be a 5-mile partial loop on a ridge west of Town Center Drive somewhat across from the Siena development.  The route includes some off-trail bushwhacking and a little scrambling with only one fairly steep climb section.  Last year when we did this hike in December we came across a desert tortoise holed up in a crevasse but otherwise awake.  The main group will leave Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard at 7:45 AM and drive to Siena, where the hike will begin at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Friday, December 27 - Gray Cap Loop.  Something quite a bit more challenging will be this strenuous 5-mile loop hike starting from the gravel pullout at the end of Calico Basin Road.  The route will ascend Five Stop Hill and drop into Gateway Canyon, turning left and heading for the peak on the traditional route through the upper canyon.  The descent back to Gateway Canyon will be on the south face that requires Class 3 scrambling.  Time element is around five hours.  Meet the others in the group at Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard for an 8:00 AM getaway.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

 

Saturday, December 28 - Liberty Bell Arch.  Located across the new bridge in Arizona, this moderate 5-mile out-and-back hike offers plenty of scenery and a view back into time.  Starting from the new trailhead parking lot, the route starts down White Rock Canyon, then veers north to pick up the trail to the arch.  With significantly rolling terrain, it passes an old manganese mine and the appropriately named arch, then reaches the break point on a ledge high above the Colorado River.  Early west side departure will be from the Rampart Casino at 7:30 AM and the fully assembled group will depart from Henderson Fiesta at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

 

Saturday, December 28 - Clark County Wetlands.  Yes, Las Vegas actually does have a place where water abounds.  In the summer, it can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, but not in the dead of winter.  Come and enjoy a pleasant easy stroll past ponds and flowing water and view some of the migratory birds who pass through the area on their way north or south.  The level hike will also include a trip along the Duck Creek Trail which was under construction last December and may still not be completed.  Total distance is 4 miles.  West side participants will leave from Rampart Casino at 7:50 AM and head for the Henderson Fiesta.  The assembled group will leave there at 8:30 AM for the park.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Sunday, December 29 - Strip Tourist Walk.  Pretend that you are just a visitor to our fair city in the desert on a 5 hour walk from Russell to Flamingo and back.  Visit the Welcome Sign, the Sphinx at the Luxor, City Center galleries, Bellagio Conservatory, and the chocolate fountain.  It will be an easy Class 1 hike consisting of sidewalks, stairs, and escalators, with the only exposure coming from adult advertising.  The group will depart from the Rampart Casino at 7:30 AM and leave on foot from the ground level parking lot just north of Russell between Mandalay Bay and Las Vegas Boulevard at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

 

Monday, December 30 - Ejection Seat Ridge.  This moderately strenuous 5-mile loop hike starts at Mile Marker 15 along Northshore Road north of Lake Mead.  It explores a ridge at the site of a military airplane crash and includes the ejection seat.  There is some loose rock and scrambling and the group will also explore a series of colorful canyons that head down toward the lake.  West side participants should leave Rampart Casino at 7:20 AM and join the larger group at CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood for an 8:00 AM departure.  The coordinators will meet the group at Mile Marker 4 of Northshore Road about 8:15 AM on the way to the hike.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

 

Tuesday, December 31 - Summerlin Peak.  Finish off the year with a strenuous ascent of an imposing peak very close to the northwest corner of the city.  Depending on the route used by the coordinator for the descent, this will either be a 4-mile out-and-back trek or can be modified to a loop route of 5 or 6 miles.  Elevation gain is something over 2,000 feet and there is exposure both on the way up a narrow ridge approaching the peak and on the peak itself.  To get to the starting point, take Cheyenne Avenue to its western end just beyond CR 215 and look for a large parking area with a white picket fence.  The hike will begin there at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Tuesday, December 31 - Calico Hills.  If you're looking for something a bit more sedate, consider this moderate 6-mile out-and-back hike connecting the Red Rock fee booth parking lot with Sandstone Quarry.  Net elevation gain is 700 feet, but the rolling terrain along the sandstone hills probably doubles the amount of gross elevation gain.  Along the way you will see how the desert is being reclaimed from a significant 2005 brush fire and pass a large sandstone slab with ancient petroglyphs.  This group will depart from Albertsons on Charleston Boulevard at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

 

In reviewing the above list, I noted that we have scheduled 42 different offerings to our club members to hit the trails in December.  This is certainly a record for our club.  As more members gain confidence with the hiking routes and their abilities to act as coordinator, this might become the norm rather than the exception.  Here's looking forward to a host of opportunities for our members in 2014.

 

Chris Dempsey           

November 2013 Hike List

Last month there was a glitch when the monthly schedule was sent out.  Half of our membership received the incoming e-mail the day after I actually posted it and the other half didn't seem to receive it at all.  Then there was something strange going on in regard to the October 2012 list getting substituted, but that is not something I initiated.  Hopefully, everyone will receive this e-mail on a timely basis.

 

Other than a handful of hikes, all of the outings will be in the Red Rock Canyon area.  Those that are not close to Red Rock are Red & Black Mountains on November 1, Siena "Little Grand Canyon" on November 15, the Valley of Fire hikes on November 21 and 26, and Fracture Ridge Peak on November 29.  Those write-ups will contain full information on assembly areas and related departure times.

 

Red Rock Canyon Area - The assembly point for Red Rock hikes is in the parking lot of the shopping center that contains an Albertsons Grocery and a Dunkin Donuts retail outlet.  This shopping center is located at the intersection of Charleston Boulevard (Highway 159) and Desert Foothills Drive, about one-half mile west of CR215.  If you are driving west on Charleston you can turn into the shopping center before you get to the stoplight at Desert Foothills.  Generally, we will be parking between the two commercial establishments but somewhat closer to Dunkin Donuts.

 

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

 

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 Saturday 8:30 AM hikes as these are the only ones that guarantee a fairly leisurely pace.  Strenuous Tuesday hikes are only open to qualified experienced hikers.  Be sure to wear appropriate clothing, footwear, and hats and bring sunscreen, water, electrolyte replacement fluids as needed, and food or snacks for each outing.

 

Questions regarding any of the hikes should be directed to Chris Dempsey at dempseylv@aol.com or by telephone at (702) 823-2355.

 

 

Friday, November 1 - Red & Black Mountains.  Boulder City is the location for this 7-mile double out-and-back hike with a moderately strenuous rating.  Starting from the River Mountains parking area next to St. Jude's Children's Ranch, the route will follow the city maintained trail up a canyon dividing the two peaks, climb to the top of Red Mountain with its flight instrument center, zip line and mountain bike launch pads, then backtrack and climb Black Mountain Overlook.  Overall, gross elevation gain is around 1,600 feet.  The Henderson Fiesta, located near the intersection of I-215 and I-515, will be used as the primary staging point for the hike with the group assembling below the large outdoor sign for an 8:00 AM departure.  Boulder City residents can drive directly to the trailhead but should be there no later than 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Richard Hansen.

 

Saturday, November 2 - White Rock Springs Peak.  Scrambling is the primary theme for this short but moderately strenuous out-and-back hike to the lower of the two peaks in the White Rock Hills.  This outing will probably start at the beginning of the gravel road leading to the White Rock Springs parking lot, making it 4 miles in length.  There is about 1,200 feet of gain, lots of boulder scrambling, and some exposure along the route.  The group will be assembling at the Albertsons parking lot on Charleston for the regular 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Saturday, November 2 - Calico I Moenkopi Loop.  The leisurely hike this Saturday is an easy to moderate 3-mile loop on trail with only a few hundred feet of gain that begins at the Red Rock Visitor Center.  Crossing the scenic drive, the group will take its first stop at Calico I Overlook for an up close view of the sandstone Calico Hills.  The route continues to the west, meeting the Moenkopi Trail and climbing the gradual ridge north of the visitor center for a snack break.  Views from this location are actually quite spectacular.  Meet the group at Albertsons for an 8:30 AM getaway.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Sunday, November 3 - Grand Circle.  Participants on this hike will cover a distance of between 11 and 12 miles as they visit many of the key points many of the key points along the scenic drive.  There is about 1,300 feet of elevation gain with most of it being quite gradual.  The hike is generally rated moderately strenuous because of the distance rather than any difficult terrain.  It will probably be conducted in a clockwise direction which affords the maximum in scenery along the route.  Departure time from Albertsons will be at 7:30 AM.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Monday, November 4 - Blue Diamond Bike Trails.  This moderate loop hike gains about 700 feet of elevation on the ridge behind the community of Blue Diamond.  Distance for the hike is either a little under or a little over 5 miles depending on which side of the final drainage is used as part of the descent off the ridge.  In the first mile, the group will pass the remains of concrete markers commemorating the main route followed by the Old Spanish Trail back in the 1800's.  A herd of wild burros generally inhabits the area close to the hike so sightings are certainly possible. The group will leave at 8:00 AM from the Albertsons parking lot.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

 

Tuesday, November 5 - Far Peak & Spirit Peak.  A typical hard core Tuesday is in store for participants on this very strenuous outing on the back side of the escarpment.  Starting from Rainbow Springs in Lovell Canyon, the group will hike up to the limestone ridge behind the escarpment and on to Far Peak.  Instead of going to Peak  EE Toe as was the case earlier this year, the group will return to the ridge and climb Spirit Peak to the south.  Distance will probably be in the 5-mile range.  The initial group will meet at Albertsons for a 7:30 AM departure and there will be a secondary pickup point at the gas station at the intersection of Highways 159 and 160 twenty minutes later.  Coordinator - Paul Eckhart.

 

Wednesday, November 6 - Waterfall Canyon.  Although this 4-mile out-and-back hike probably carries a moderate rating, participants should be aware that there is significant scrambling over about one mile with sections of slick rock as the group heads into the canyon off Rocky Gap Road.  The creek that issues from the canyon is heavily spring fed so water is generally flowing year round and needs to be crossed on several occasions.  The snack break occurs either at the base of a 30-foot waterfall or at the top for the adventurous participants.  We will be leaving Albertsons at 8:00 AM for the trailhead at Willow Springs.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Thursday, November 7 - Cave Canyon & The Muffins.  Our coordinator lists this moderately strenuous loop outing on Blue Diamond Hill at 7.5 miles, and it starts with some pretty serious scrambling in the lower section of the aforementioned canyon, including a 15-foot waterfall that requires use of hands.  After exiting the canyon, the group will head north along the high eastern ridge of Blue Diamond Hill, visit the Las Vegas Overlooks, then descend on the trail past the composite boulders known as the Muffins.  Group departure is at 8:00 AM from Albertsons.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Friday, November 8 - Dale's Trail from Ice Box.  Dale's Trail is a 2.2-mile segment of several connecting trails that run along the base of the escarpment on the west side of Red Rock Canyon.  On this moderate out-and-back hike, the group will access the trail from Ice Box Canyon Trail, probably stopping in the vicinity of Skull Rock on the return from the intersection with Pine Creek Trail.  Overall distance of the moderate hike should be 5 miles, and the rolling terrain should account for a gross elevation gain of 800 feet or so.  Meet the group at Albertsons for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.

 

Saturday, November 9 - Conglomerate Gardens.  The outgoing leg of this moderate 6-mile loop hike only accounts for 1/3 of the total distance as it climbs 800 feet along the Fossil Ridge Trail to the edge of the gypsum mining property on Blue Diamond Hill.  The return section includes lots of twists and turns and reaches a great snack spot on top of a section of composite boulders tucked next to a shallow side canyon back in the hinterland.  There is the possibility of still being able to see the fall flowers in bloom along the route.  Albertsons will be the assembly point and 8:00 AM will be the departure time for the first Saturday hike.  Coordinator - Diane Dempsey.

 

Saturday, November 9 - Skull Rock.  The snack break destination on this easy to moderate 3-mile hike is the unusual boulder next to Dale's Trail that bears a resemblance to a human skull.  Prior to getting there, the group will do a little exploration of other trails in the Pine Creek area, possibly including the seldom hiked Fire Ecology Trail, to build the distance up to that level.  Of course the pace will be leisurely to accommodate those people who want to more fully enjoy the beauty of Red Rock Canyon.  The group will assemble at Albertsons for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Marg Biesiada.

 

Sunday, November 10 - Red Cap & Tank Exploration.  This strenuous out-and-back hike will cover somewhere between 3 and 5 miles depending on what location is used as the starting point.  In any event, participants will climb up Dragon Canyon on the south side of Gateway Peak, hike past Ash Canyon Overlook, and continue up the east slope of sandstone to the top of Red Cap, passing a few tanks along the way.  The section to the peak generally consists of scrambling using hands past sandstone formations and there is a bit of exposure.  Departure time will be 7:30 AM from Albertsons.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, November 11 - Echo Canyon & First Finger.  A rescheduled outing from the previous month, this moderate 6-mile loop hike gains 900 feet as it does some light scrambling through Echo Canyon to a trail junction, turns left onto a dead end ridge called First Finger, and gets to the return section of the hike along Fossil Ridge via a short trail along an abandoned section of mining road.  The tops of these ridges on Blue Diamond Hill provide great views of the escarpment and Red Rock Canyon.  Assembly point will be at Albertsons with an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Tuesday, November 12 - Juniper Peak.  This very strenuous 5-mile out-and-back hike begins rather innocuously with a trek across the desert floor from the Pine Creek parking lot but changes drastically when it reaches the approach to Juniper Canyon.  That canyon rises rapidly from toward Rainbow Mountain with sections of loose terrain and an occasional boulder to get around or over.  At the top of the canyon, the route turns left onto a huge tilted sandstone formation approaching the final narrow ridge that leads to the peak.  Lots of exposure with 2,000 feet of elevation gain.  The assembled group will leave from Albertsons at 7:30 AM.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Tuesday, November 12 - White Rock Hills Loop.  Here is the only Tuesday in November with an alternative to the crazy stuff.  Join this group for a pleasant loop trek around the two cream colored mountains at the north end of Red Rock Canyon that covers a distance of 6.4 miles and gains 900 feet of elevation.  This hike passes through two different groupings of vegetation with creosote, black brush, and cactus dominating the lower half and manzanita, juniper, and an occasional pine taking root behind the mountain, which gets much more rainfall to support this vegetation.  Departure will be at 8:00 AM from Albertsons.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

 

Wednesday, November 13 - Krafft Mountain Loop.  One of the most scenic areas west of Las Vegas is found in Gateway Canyon on the north side of Krafft Mountain, which is part of the route on this moderate 5-mile loop hike starting at Red Springs Picnic Area.  The first part of the outing stays along the eastern edge of the Calico Hills before the trail moves up Five Stop Hill on the way to the saddle overlooking Gateway Canyon.  The canyon itself possesses some of the sweetest sandstone formations combining red and cream, with swirls, lines, and dots among the visual effects.  Some scrambling is involved.  Meet the group at Albertsons for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Thursday, November 14 - White Rock Springs Peak.  There is a good chance that this hike will basically follow the same route as the one on November 2, starting at the beginning of the gravel road, but once on the ridge leading to the peak there are so many boulders to climb over that it may be on a slightly different track.  If there are any fearless hikers in the group they will be able to reach the peak extension, with this short connection offering lots of thrills over uneven terrain on a narrow ridge with scrambling and exposure.  Assembly point for the group will be at Albertsons and an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Friday, November 15 - Siena "Little Grand Canyon".  I will have to pre-hike this in order to establish the group route for what I hope is a moderate 4 to 5-mile out-and-back trek and I will let you know at a later date when that occurs if you care to join in the exploration.  The target canyon heads east from Town Center Drive in the vicinity of Bishop Gorman High School and is narrow and deep, thus receiving the comparison to the somewhat unfair comparison to the awe-inspiring canyon in Arizona.  Initial meeting place will be at Albertsons for a 7:45 AM departure and we will head to the Siena Community Center for a final pickup at 8:00 AM before making the short drive south.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Saturday, November 16 - Escarpment Base Trail.  The earlier hike this Saturday involves connecting all the trails along the base of the Wilson Cliffs between the northern Oak Creek trailhead and Lost Creek.  Namely, we will be on all or parts of Arnight, Pine Creek, Dale's, and SMYC trail as we head north for 5.4 miles, gaining about 600 feet in the process.  This hike is rated moderate and is almost all on trail with a very minor amount of scrambling.  Since this is a point-to-point hike, extra vehicles will be required to shuttle participants.  Meet the group at Albertsons for an 8:00 AM getaway.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Saturday, November 16 - Calico I to Sandstone Quarry.  This moderate 4-mile out-and-back hike will utilize the Calico Hills Trail to treat participants to some exceptional displays of scenery where the desert connects with the sandstone formations in the hills.  It will begin at the Calico I Overlook and head north to Sandstone Quarry for a snack break before returning to the starting point.  Net gain is somewhat under 500 feet but rolling terrain increases the gross amount to 700 or so.  Pace will be leisurely.  Departure from the assembly point at Albertsons will be at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Marg Biesiada.

 

Sunday, November 17 - Las Vegas Overlook & Skull Canyon.  This moderately strenuous hike starting from the cowboy stables parking lot involves perhaps 1,500 feet of elevation gain over the course of an 8-mile distance on a loop route.  It will begin by taking the Fossil Ridge Trail to the top of Echo Canyon, then connecting with the overlay trail on an abandoned mining road, then head up the slope on the eastern ridge of Blue Diamond Hill to a grand viewing spot.  Closing the loop will be a half mile trek along the top of the ridge and a descent through Skull Canyon.  The group will assemble at Albertsons for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, November 18 - Ash Canyon.  This strenuous outing is a bit more difficult than the normal Monday offering, but is certainly worth the effort.  The loop route will start at Red Springs Picnic Area, staying along the eastern edge of the Calico Hills until it reaches the mouth of Ash Canyon.  The climb through this canyon is steep and involves quite a bit of boulder scrambling, but the view from the top makes it worth the effort.  The return leg includes a short section of Gateway Canyon and a descent down Five Stop Hill.  Distance is about 5 miles with 1,600 feet of elevation gain.  Departure time will be 8:00 AM from Albertsons.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

 

Tuesday, November 19 - Terrace Canyon.  Scenery doesn't get much better than the terraced floor of this canyon tucked deep above the south fork of Pine Creek.  The amount of scrambling required is significant on this very strenuous 6-mile out-and-back hike that will probably take six or seven hours to complete.  Don't go unless you are prepared to climb up 15-foot boulders and crawl through brush to reach the objective.  We have been treated to back country bighorn sheep in this canyon several times in the past.  Because of the extended time for doing the hike, the group will be leaving from Albertsons at 7:00 AM.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Wednesday, November 20 - White Rock/Sandstone Loop.  Branch Whitney describes this moderately strenuous 7-mile loop hike in his first book as Grand Circle West, but it's actually located north of the Grand Circle Trail.  Starting at Sandstone Quarry we will be following the Grand Circle Trail to the back of Cactus Hill on the edge of the Keystone Thrust before following a partial jeep track along a ridge to a saddle below La Madre Mountain.  Turning downhill, we will pass through a series of ever=widening drainages until we reach our starting point.  The assembled group will leave from Albertsons at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Thursday, November 21 - Drop Slot, Black Top, White Pimple and Fire Wave Loop.  I expect all these strange names of places will be explained during the course of the 4.8-mile hike that I am told has precisely 1,124 feet of gross elevation gain and is rated moderately strenuous.  That's because our coordinator is one of the real experts when it comes to meandering through the seemingly endless dead-end canyons and sandstone outcroppings found at Valley of Fire.  Plan on about 6 hours for this hike including travel time, wear long pants and sleeves, and take gloves.  An early west side assembly point will occur on the top floor of the Rampart Casino parking garage, located near Rampart and Summerlin Parkway.  That group will leave at 7:15 AM for the primary meeting spot at Lucky Club Casino, on the northwest corner of I-15 and Cheyenne.  The full group should leave there by 7:45 AM.  Coordinator - Brian Dodd.

 

Friday, November 22 - Lone Grapevine Spring.  Tucked into Cottonwood Valley close to the base of Windy Peak is a field of boulders containing petroglyphs that may span over 1,000 years or more.  Come and get a vision of history in southern Nevada on this moderate 5-mile hike that stops briefly at Shovel Spring prior to heading across the desert to Lone Grapevine Spring and the petroglyph field.  The middle part of the hike is a loop with the beginning and ending sections the same.  Meet the other participants at Albertsons for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Saturday, November 23 - White Rock Hills Loop.  One of the most traveled trails in Red Rock Canyon is the moderate 6.4-mile route around the two cream colored sandstone peaks at the north end of the canyon that compromise the White Rock Hills.  The well-maintained trail goes completely around them, gaining a net of 900 feet of elevation in the process.  Unique in terms of plant variations, the front side is regular Mojave Desert with creosote, black brush, and cactus, while the backside is prolific with pine, juniper, manzanita, and some oak.  Departure from Albertsons will occur at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Ed Matulis.

 

Saturday, November 23 - Cowboy Stables Trails.  The leisurely Saturday hike this weekend will be an easy to moderate trek along the northern end of Blue Diamond Hill from the Cowboy Stables parking lot.  Pace will be accommodating as the group heads toward Skull Canyon but turns sharply left at the drainage near the base of the hill.  Expect a total distance of 3 to 4 miles with a possible addition of the low ridge climbing along Highway 159 across from Red Rock.  We will be leaving from Albertsons for this hike at precisely 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Sunday, November 24 - Gray Cap Loop.  The starting point for this strenuous 5-mile hike is the gravel parking area at the end of the main road through Calico Basin.  From there, the group will head up Five Stop Hill and drop into Gateway Canyon, taking the standard route to the top of Gateway and up the steep ridge to the sandstone, winding through the boulders and other formations to the peak.  The descent will be through Gray Fox Canyon to lower Gateway Canyon and back over Five Stop Hill.  This descent is more challenging with some Class 3 scrambling.  Departure will be at 7:30 AM from Albertsons.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Monday, November 25 - La Madre Miner's Cabin.  This moderately strenuous 5-mile out-and-back hike starts rather tamely along Rocky Gap Road and still Is not very difficult as it follows another abandoned road past a couple of old foundations to La Madre Spring.  From the spring a single track trail continues up the drainage, crossing the creek on several occasions and getting progressively steeper as the trail approaches the stone shelter with a tree trunk roof.  Elevation gain is in the vicinity of 1,600 feet and the view from the cabin is an indication of that gain.  Assembly point will be Albertsons with an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

 

Tuesday, November 26 - Valley of Fire North-South Traverse.  One of only two point-to-point hikes on the docket during November, this strenuous 6-mile hike with 1,700 feet of gross elevation gain has such intense scrambling that it will probably take five hours to accomplish.  The route follows canyons and mesas from the White Dome area south through a notch to the Visitor Center, where the backup cars will be left.  As is the case with other Valley of Fire hikes, travel time will likely be an hour in each direction, so the entire outing will take most of the day.  Refer to the Valley of Fire hike on November 21 for logistics of travel.  Departure times from the two assembly points will be 7:15 AM from the Rampart Casino and 7:45 AM from Lucky Club Casino.  Coordinator - Brian Dodd.

 

Wednesday, November 27 - Rubber Ducky Yucca.  You will have to participate on this moderate 5-mile partial loop hike to find out what the name is all about, as it is better experienced that being told about.  The hike has about 300 feet of elevation change and it is on the return leg, but there isn't any steep or irregular terrain to be concerned about.  It will be conducted as a joint outing between Around the Bend Friends and Lone Mountain Hiking Club, so the early assembly point is at Desert Vista Community Center for an 8:00 AM departure.  The combined group will then meet briefly at Albertsons with an 8:15 AM departure.  A final stop will be made at the gas station at the junction of Highways 159 and 160 for any south side participants at 8:35 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Thursday, November 28 - Red Springs Loop.  Sometimes referred to as the Guardian Angel Pass hike, this moderately strenuous 4-mile loop through the Calico Hills and then around the south end of the sandstone formation involves a significant amount of scrambling, both climbing and descending trough the gap in the sandstone hills and then in the canyon on the Red Rock side.  Somewhat over halfway along the descent from the gap the group will encounter an etching on a large sandstone boulder of an archangel.  Meet the group at Albertsons for a departure at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Friday, November 29 - Fracture Ridge Peak.  The beginning of this strenuous 6-mile out-and-back hike follows the same trail as the one to Black Mountain in Henderson.  About a mile into the hike, the Fracture Ridge trail branches off to the south, crosses a main drainage, and begins the long ascent up the ridge.  Toward the end the trail dissipates, leaving a bit of scrambling through lava boulders to reach the summit.  Total elevation gain is around 1,800 feet.  The early west side group will congregate at Albertsons for a 7:20 AM departure and head over to the combined meeting spot at a Walgreens located at the intersection of Anthem Parkway and Hampton.  All the participants will leave there at 8:00 AM for the trailhead.  Coordinator - Carl Weller.

 

Saturday, November 30 - Red Cap.  The hike is rather short at 3 miles but the terrain is truly awesome getting to the highest point in the Calico Hills.  The regular route to the top will be used for the ascent, which involves a fair amount of Class 3 scrambling up slabs and through cracks.  Total elevation gain is around 1,000 feet and the hike is rated strenuous.  On the way down the group will pass several tanks that generally hold water in the spring and make a final descent onto the Calico Tanks Trail along Mass Production Wall.  Meet the other participants at Albertsons for a departure at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Saturday, November 30 - Peak 3488 Ridges Loop.  Back by popular demand from the October schedule is a moderate hike of 3 to 4 miles through the desert from Calico Basin just a handful of miles west of urban Las Vegas.  The destination is a small peak whose name is its elevation that is situated fairly close to the mouth of Brownstone Canyon.  Elevation gain during the course of the hike is around 400 feet.  Pace will be leisurely to accommodate those wanting to get a good look at the countryside.  Departure from the Albertsons parking lot will be at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Jan Meigs.