February 2014 Hike List

The information 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 February hike 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 southern Nevada.  These other hikes will have additional information regarding assembly locations in the body of each hike description.

 

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 directly in front of the casino, and immediately turn right into the lot.  If traveling east on Charleston, you can turn right at the first entrance and then make an immediate left.  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 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 eastbound 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 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 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.

 

Valley of Fire and Gold Butte.  As is the case with Lake Mead North hikes, the early west side assembly point will be on the top floor of the parking garage at Rampart Casino as indicated above.  The primary assembly point will be in the parking lot of Lucky Club Casino, which 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.  For extreme north side participants, there will be an additional pickup point about thirty minutes after the departure time at the Indian Smoke Shop located at the exit for Valley of Fire on Valley of Fire hikes only.  Individuals at that location must wait outside their vehicles so they can be spotted by the coordinator.

 

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 NOTE #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.

 

 

Saturday, February 1 - Hamblin Mountain.  One of the most dynamic hikes in the Lake Mead area is this moderately strenuous trek to the top of a mountain offering exciting views of both Boulder and Virgin Basins of the lake.  Total distance is 7 miles with 1,500 feet of elevation gain and there is a slight variation on the return route through a colorful canyon and down a dry waterfall.  The starting point for the hike is Mile Marker 18 along Northshore Road.  West side participants can meet at the Rampart Casino for a departure at 7:20 AM.  The main assembly location is at the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard, from which the combined group will leave at 8:00 AM.  There will be a final quick stop at Mile Marker 4 of Northshore Road to pick up the coordinators and any other south side participants at 8:15 AM.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

 

Saturday, February 1 - McCullough Hills Trail.  The later hike for this Saturday will explore a newly constructed trail on the south side of Henderson that goes into the Sloan Canyon Recreation Area.  This effort will be an easy to moderate out-and-back hike that will cover a total distance of 4 miles along a well-graded walking path with minimal elevation gain.  The trailhead used for this hike is at the end of Mission Road.  Early west side participants meeting at Red Rock Casino should leave at 7:50 AM to join the main group at Henderson Fiesta, from which everyone involved will depart at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Nienaber.

 

Sunday, February 2 - River Mountains Trail - Part 2.  Continuing where the group left off the previous Sunday means the starting point for this strenuous 12-mile segment of the paved trail around the River Mountains is at Railroad Pass Casino.  At the end of the trek is a parking area along Lake Mead Parkway very close to the entrance station into Lake Mead Recreation Area.  In between is a lot of vacant ground at the edge of Henderson covering a fair amount of rolling terrain.  A good athletic or walking shoe will probably work better than hiking boots and sticks are not necessary.  There will be a snack break along the way.  The early west side group will leave Red Rock Casino at 7:00 AM and Henderson Fiesta will be the main assembly point for a 7:45 AM departure.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, February 3 - White Owl Canyon Shoreline Loop.  This moderate hike is approximately 5 miles and begins at the Las Vegas Bay boat ramp near Mile Marker 10 on Lakeshore Road.  It is a short version of the longer loop through White Owl Canyon.  The route proceeds along the shoreline to Hole 33, passes through the canyon, and returns to the starting point mainly along a section of the paved River Mountain Trail.  Early west side assembly will be at Red Rock Casino for a 7:20 AM departure.  The full group will gather at Henderson Fiesta for an 8:00 AM departure, and will meet the coordinators and other Boulder City participants at the parking area on the right side of Lake Mead Parkway just before the fee booth about 8:10 AM.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

 

Tuesday, February 4 - Cleopatra Wash.  This strenuous 7-mile hike in the Lake Mead area mostly involves scrambling through a beautiful canyon to the shore of the lake.  There are several dry waterfalls to negotiate along the way, but the 30-foot waterfall near the end of the canyon is impassable.  At that point the group will climb a steep ridge by loose trail and scramble down the other side to the shore.  Boathouse Cove Road is used to get to the starting point and it definitely requires high clearance vehicles.  The west side group will assemble at Rampart Casino and leave at 7:00 AM for the CVS Pharmacy at Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood.  The combined group will leave there at 7:35 AM and do a final stop at the Mile Marker 4 pullout along Northshore Road about 7:50 AM on the way to the hike.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Wednesday, February 5 - Black Mountain (Henderson).  The trail  to the top of this peak on the south side of Las Vegas climbs 2,100 feet and seems to get steeper the closer one gets to the top.  The view is phenomenal and takes in not only all of Las Vegas but stretches south past Searchlight and into Arizona.  Total distance is right at 6 miles for the out-and-back hike and the rating is strenuous.  Early west side participants should meet at Red Rock Casino for a 7:30 AM departure.  The main group will assemble at the Walgreens located at the intersection of Anthem Parkway and Hampton Road and leave for the trailhead at 8:15 AM.  Parking at the trailhead is limited so carpooling is essential.  Coordinator - Helmut De Candia.

 

Thursday, February 6 - Cholla Forest Loop.  The south flank of the River Mountains provides the setting for this moderately strenuous loop hike of 6 or 7 miles.  The route involves a series of dry waterfalls in a canyon before reaching a sensational concentration of Teddy Bear Cholla where the break will occur.  Be prepared for scrambling over much of the route.  The early west side group will leave from Red Rock Casino at 7:20 AM and join the main group at Henderson Fiesta for an 8:00 AM departure.  They will meet the coordinator and other Boulder City participants at the lower parking lot at Alan Bible Visitor Center around 8:25 AM.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

 

Friday, February 7 - Calico Hills Figure 8.  This very strenuous 5-mile adventure will start from the Red Springs Picnic Area.  The group will ascend Grand Staircase, go down the back side, navigate an inner route between Calico I and Calico II, ascend past the carving to the saddle at Guardian Angel Pass, and descend toward Calico Basin.  The fun is not finished as the group will then climb past Heart Rock and a tunnel to Slab Rift, cross the earlier path, traverse the ridge above Grand Staircase, and descend to the boardwalk.  The route consists of 10% trail and 90% scrambling, has minimal exposure, and should take four to five hours to complete.  Departure from the assembly point at Red Rock Casino will be at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

 

Saturday, February 8 - Fracture Ridge.  Located in the McCullough Range south of Henderson and right next to Black Mountain, the trek to the peak at the end of Fracture Ridge provides another opportunity to see up close the remains of volcanic activity in our area from eons ago.  The strenuous out-and-back hike is 6 or 7 miles in length and gains roughly 1,800 feet.  Most of the route is on trail but there is some moderate scrambling getting to the peak.  The early west side group will meet at Red Rock Casino and depart at 7:15 AM.  The main group will assemble at the Walgreens at the intersection of Anthem Parkway and Hampton Road for an 8:00 AM departure to the trailhead, which is just five minutes away.  Limited space at the trailhead requires maximum carpooling.  Coordinator - Ed Matulis.

 

Saturday, February 8 - 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 of 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 7:50 AM and the entire group will leave from Henderson Fiesta at 8:30 AM, arriving at the starting point of the hike about 8:55 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Sunday, February 9 - River Mountains Trail - Part 3.  The most scenic, but longest, section of the paved trail around the River Mountains is set for the finale of this three Sunday effort.  Starting from the lot along Lake Mead Parkway near the Lake Mead fee both, participants will head around the east side of the mountains, passing several features including the water intake station before reaching the end at the lower parking lot of Alan Bible Visitor Center.  This segment is about 13 miles in length and also follows the old road bed for Northshore Road that has been converted to bike and walking trails.  Because of the length this outing is rated as strenuous.  West side group will leave from Red Rock Casino at 7:00 AM to join the main group at Henderson Fiesta for a 7:45 AM departure.  It will be necessary to spot vehicles at the end for the return.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, February 10 - Rubber Ducky Yucca.  Here is one more opportunity to visit the Joshua tree near Cottonwood Valley that mountain bikers have decided to adorn with a host of rubber ducks.  On our last visit to the tree near Thanksgiving, one of our members added a rubber turkey to the collection.  Overall, this moderate partial loop hike will cover a distance of 6 miles.  The route includes a trail that takes participants to the top of a long ridge that provides great views of the area.  The assembly point for the hike is at Red Rock Casino with a departure at 8:00 AM.  There will be an additional stop at the gas station located at the junction of Highways 159 and 160 at 8:20 AM to pick up south side participants.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Tuesday, February 11 - Rufus Cove.  This strenuous hike of about 9 miles starts at the pullout one-half mile beyond Mile Marker 16 on Northshore Road in the Lake Mead area.  The hike goes down a very colorful canyon to the shore of Lake Mead and there is some boulder scrambling and a few dry waterfalls to negotiate.  Any participants from the west side can meet at the Rampart Casino for a carpool departure at 7:20 AM.  The main group will assemble at the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood, leaving there at 8:00 AM to join the coordinator and any other south side participants at the Mile Marker 4 pullout along Northshore Road at 8:15 AM before heading to the starting point of the hike.  Coordinator - Chuck Hawkins.

 

Wednesday, February 12 - McCullough Hills Trail.  Unlike the hike of February 1 with the same name, this will not be a short hike.  The objective for this effort is to do the entire 8-mile trail from end to end.  To accomplish this, the group will be split at the final meeting spot and there will be a key exchange prior to the hike and again in the middle of the hike.  There is some elevation change but the trail is in pretty good shape, so the hike carries a moderate rating.  The early west side group will gather at Red Rock Casino for a 7:20 AM departure.  The general meeting point is different from normal.  It will be in the parking lot of a Walgreens Drug Store at the intersection of Eastern Avenue and Sunridge Heights Parkway.  The address of the store is 11001 Eastern Avenue.  Meeting time at that location will start around 7:45 AM and the group will leave there at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Richard Hansen. 

 

Thursday, February 13 - River Mountain Peak.  The highest point in the River Mountains is the objective for this strenuous 8-mile out-and-back hike starting from the trailhead parking lot next to St. Jude Children's Ranch.  The route will follow the city trail to the saddle between Red and Black Mountains, then drop off the back side using a series of mountain biking trails.  Farther on is a utility gravel road that leads to the saddle below the peak and the final assault is a fairly tough bushwhack to the top.  Departure from the west side collection point at Red Rock Casino will be at 7:20 AM and the full group will leave from Henderson Fiesta at 8:00 AM, arriving at the River Mountains trailhead parking lot by 8:20 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Friday, February 14 - Krafft Mountain Loop.  Celebrate Valentines Day with a moderate 5-mile romp through the lower section of Gateway Canyon while making a circle around the magenta colored mountain on the north side of Calico Basin.  Starting from Red Springs Picnic Area, the familiar route heads north along the Calico Hills and climbs the trail to the saddle atop Five Stop Hill.  From there the trail descends into Gateway Canyon for some exciting scrambling amid the very colorful sandstone formations.  After exiting the canyon, participants will pass a renowned boulder area and follow Ash Creek back to the starting point.  The group will gather at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Helmut De Candia.

 

Saturday, February 15 - Jean's Canyon & Redstone Petroglyphs.  Rated strenuous, this 7 mile hike starting at Mile Marker 25 of Northshore Road heads up an interesting inner canyon that climbs over Pinto Ridge and into Pinto Valley.  At this point the route turns left towards the Redstone rocks for an exploration of the many formations and petroglyphs.  There is some rock scrambling and elevation changes along the way.  West side participants should leave from Rampart Casino at 7:20 AM to join the main group assembling at the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood for an 8:00 AM departure.  There will be a quick stop at Mile Marker 4 along Northshore Road to collect the coordinators and any other south side participants around 8:15 AM.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

 

Saturday, February 15 - River Mountains Trail Segment & Lunch.  An easy to moderate jaunt along a 4-mile section of the River Mountains Trail is the order of the day for the later hike.  This will be a point-to-point hike that will require vehicles to be left at the Railroad Pass Casino, where it will finish, with other vehicles taking participants to the starting point by St. Jude Children's Ranch.  There is more downhill than uphill involved and the entire trail is paved, so hiking shoes can be replaced with other athletic shoes.  After the hike join the group for lunch at the Railroad Pass café.  The west side group with the coordinator will leave Red Rock Casino at 7:50 AM, join the main group at Henderson Fiesta for an 8:30 AM departure, and get to Railroad Pass Casino at 8:45 AM, parking in the lower lot.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Sunday, February 16 - Roos & More Zoo.  This sanctioned club outing will visit an educational zoo located in Moapa that allows visitors constant hands-on interaction with the animals.  This outing required pre-registration and advance payment of the individual cost and is currently filled.  Details have been sent to all the participants as to assembly location and time.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

 

Monday, February 17 - Blue Point Spring Redstone Formations.  This generally moderate 5 to 6-mile hike starts at Blue Point Spring near Mile Marker 40 on Northshore Road.  There are numerous red Aztec sandstone formations that will be explored, including an arch in which the waters of Lake Mead can be framed for photographs along with several other arches.  It has some of the nicest formations in the Lake Mead area, which definitely compensates for the long drive.  The Rampart Casino will be the early west side staging point with a 7:20 AM departure.  The primary meeting spot is at CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood for an 8:00 AM departure.  The coordinators and any other south side participants should be at the Northshore Road Mile Marker 4 pullout by 8:15 AM to join the rest of the group.  Coordinators - Joan & Chuck Hawkins.

 

Monday, February 17 - Gunsight Notch Peak.  This very strenuous 7-mile out-and-back hike will rival any of the tough Tuesday hikes for intensity.  Starting from the Pine Creek parking area the group will hike across the desert, enter the south fork of Pine Creek, and continue up the canyon on the same route that leads to Terrace Canyon.  At the final canyon junction, the route turns left in Gunsight Notch Canyon and climbs to the peak for a breathtaking view.  Elevation gain is in the order of 2,100 feet.  There is no exposure but the hike can still be intimidating due to the steepness.  If using trekking poles, be sure to bring rubber tips as the regular tungsten is virtually useless and even dangerous on the loose shale.  Departure from Red Rock Casino will be at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

 

Tuesday, February 18 - Quarry Loop.  Join other members of the club for an exploration of an old quarry area at the southeast corner of the River Mountains.  Starting from a large parking area just beyond Mile Marker 3 of Lakeshore Road, the group will head toward the quarry and climb up a steep canyon on its left side.  At the top of the canyon are a series of mesas and upper canyons seldom visited by hikers.  The descent will be along the opposite side of the quarry returning to the vehicles.  This is a strenuous hike of 6 miles that involves serious scrambling and climbing.  The early west side group should leave Red Rock Casino at 7:20 AM and join the main group at Henderson Fiesta for an 8:00 AM departure.  They will then meet the coordinator and other Boulder City participants at the Railroad Tunnels parking lot below Alan Bible Visitor Center about 8:25 AM before heading to the starting point of the hike.  Coordinator - Chuck Hawkins.

 

Wednesday, February 19 - Grand Circle.  The big loop hike in Red Rock Canyon will start from the parking lot behind the fee booth and proceed in a clockwise direction, heading first toward the Willow Springs gap.  At 12 miles and 900 feet of gain, this hike provides great views of the sandstone and limestone peaks on all sides of Red Rock Canyon.  Because of the distance it is rated as strenuous.  The most rolling terrain is in the last three miles coming home from Sandstone Quarry.  The group will assemble at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Thursday, February 20 - Lava Butte.  It's been a few years since this peak has been on the agenda, so it's time for another go-around.  The hike will start from the pullout on Northshore Road close to Mile Marker 3 where Lava Butte Wash flows under the road.  This is about one mile from the junction with Lake Mead Boulevard.  The group will follow the wash and angle toward the mountain and climb the steep ridge that climbs on the east face.  Total distance is about 6 miles and there is 1,800 feet of vertical gain.  These factors, along with the amount of scrambling involved, result in the hike carrying a strenuous rating.  The Rampart Casino group will leave at 7:20 AM and the complete group will leave the CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood at 8:00 AM.  Anyone driving from the south side can drive straight to the pullout where the hike starts.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Friday, February 21 - Lone Grapevine Spring.  The only time this season that this hike was scheduled was in December and it got washed out, so it's time to try again.  The moderate partial loop hike starts from the Late Night trailhead parking lot and proceeds through Cottonwood Valley, visiting a couple of natural springs near the southern base of the escarpment.  In the vicinity of the second springs is a collection of both ancient and more recent petroglyphs carved on boulders lying on the ground.  Elevation gain is about 300 feet and occurs on the return.  The group will assemble at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure and there will be a stop at the gas station at the junction of Highways 159 and 160 at 8:20 AM to meet south side participants.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Saturday, February 22 - White Rock Springs Peak.  This moderately strenuous out-and-back hike will start at the White Rock Springs parking lot at the end of the gravel road that starts at Mile Marker 6 of the Red Rock scenic drive.  It is about 3 miles in total distance and scrambling is the primary aspect of the hike as virtually the entire time will be spent climbing over boulders on the ridge getting to the top.  Elevation gain is 1,200 feet.  Most of the scrambling is Class 2 but there are sections of Class 3 terrain that will require use of hands and there are areas of exposure.  The group will depart from Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

 

Saturday, February 22 - Calico I-Moenkopi Loop.  The leisurely hike for the first Saturday back in Red Rock Canyon will find the group on an easy to moderate 3-mile loop with only a few hundred feet of elevation gain.  Starting from the Red Rock Visitor Center, participants will head around to the back side of the building and take the trail heading east that crosses the scenic drive.  Turning gradually north, they will stop briefly at Calico I Overlook, then cross the drive again and head for the Moenkopi Trail and a gradual ridge with a very good panoramic view of the canyon before returning to the starting point.  This group will depart from Red Rock Casino at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Ed Matulis.

 

Sunday, February 23 - Camel Tracks Loop.  As we start to close down the hiking season near Lake Mead we have yet another new option for serious hikers.  Starting at Mile Marker 20.5 on Northshore Road, the trail heads toward the Callville Road junction and turns right to find some ancient camel tracks near a wash.  The route then climbs to a saddle for a break at an overlook of the North and South Bowls of Fire.  The moderately strenuous 6-mile partial loop hike finishes through a colorful area back to the original trail and the starting point.  Total elevation gain is around 1,500 feet.  West side group will depart from Rampart Casino at 7:20 AM and join the main contingent at CVS Pharmacy on Lake Mead Boulevard and Hollywood, leaving at 8:00 AM and picking up any south side participants at Mile Marker 4 around 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Monday, February 24 - Red Springs Loop.  Prepare to boulder scramble on this moderately strenuous 4-mile hike starting at Red Springs Picnic Area in Calico Basin.  From the parking lot a trail follows the east flank of the Calico Hills to the base of a notch known as Angel Pass.  The fun begins as the ascent is scrambling over and around a variety of obstacles getting to the saddle.  On the descent into Red Rock Canyon the group will pass the somewhat famous angel carving before finding a ledge near the bottom for a snack break.  The hike stays in a canyon alongside the Calico Hills until it reaches a trail around the south end that returns to the original parking lot.  Meet at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Nancy Moore.

 

Tuesday, February 25 - Calico Hills Peaks.  Canceled last time it was scheduled due to weather it's time to try it again.  From Red Springs Picnic Area, the group will traverse over to Ash Canyon and continue west to the north chute approach to Red Cap.  After a short stop to admire the view, they will follow the ridge southeast and climb Calico Peak.  There is a 30-foot descent on a cliff wall in this section that has significant exposure.  After the second peak the group will descend to the valley floor in Red Rock and ascend to Guardian Angel Pass for a return to Red Springs.  This is a strenuous 5-mile hike with lots of scrambling and some Class 3 terrain.  Meet at Red Rock Casino for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Wednesday, February 26 - La Madre Miner's Cabin.  This moderately strenuous 5-mile out-and-back hike stages out of Willow Springs Picnic Area and first heads up a half mile section of Rocky Gap Road.  Turning right onto a trail atop an old abandoned road, it passes the cutoff for White Rock Hills Loop followed by a couple of old summer home foundations and arrives at the wildlife pond at the base of a creek.  From there the route turns into a single track trail as it follows the drainage upstream and turns fairly steep as it approaches the old shelter on a ledge looking across the valley toward White Rock Hills Peak.  Assembly will be at Red Rock Casino with an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Ed Matulis.

 

Thursday, February 27 - Fern Canyon.  One of the few places in southern Nevada where it is moist enough for naturally occurring ferns is the North Fork of Pine Creek Canyon, which contributes to the alternate local name.  Starting from the Pine Creek parking lot the regular trail passes the old Wilson homestead and follows the canyon drainage on the north bank.  Gaining a bit of elevation and bending around the corner at the entrance to the canyon, that trail eventually drops into the drainage.  At that point it becomes a boulder scrambling effort with some of the terrain requiring use of hands.  Overall, this out-and-back hike is 4 miles in length and rated moderately strenuous.  Group departure will be at 8:00 AM from Red Rock Casino.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Friday, February 28 - Red Cap from Calico Basin.  A shorter but no less strenuous version of the Tuesday hike is this 3 to 4-mile trek to the top of the red mantle at the north end of the Calico Hills. Starting from the gravel parking lot at the northwest corner of Calico Basin, the group will climb through Ash Canyon, connect with the Rattlesnake Trail, and climb Red Cap from the west side.  They will make the descent on the north side and reconnect with Rattlesnake Trail, heading back down Ash Canyon to the starting point.  The hike is 50% trail and 50% Class 3 scrambling.  Participants will depart from Red Rock Casino at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jim Billetdeaux.

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