Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area’s stunning range of colorful sandstone and limestone looms large west of Las Vegas. The dramatic range is dotted with canyons – evidence of millions of years of flowing water that carved them out. Each one of these canyons is unique and if you venture into them you’ll find surprises.
First Creek Canyon is best known for its waterfall and plunge pools. The trail is fairly easy to follow and accessible on horseback making it a nice option for a low-key ride. The mileage in and out of the canyon is low, but combined with some of the trails in the surrounding valley, you can ride as many miles as you please.
Like most trails in Red Rock, this one starts in the flats with trails that lead through cholla, yucca, and other scrub brush. Interestingly, there are little to no Joshua trees around First Creek. There are some washes with big river rocks in the flats as well. As you approach the canyon you will begin to spot cottonwood trees, ponderosa pine trees, and tall shrubs.
Depending on the precipitation of winter, the water can really flow here. There are a few small waterfalls and plunge pools along the creek. The main waterfalls themselves are not accessible on horseback as they require some scrambling down into the creek bed itself. But, you can still get your horse to the water in some spots along the creek. (You’ll also find grass around the creek.) Generally, this is a seasonal creek so your best bet to find water is winter and spring.
Once you get into the canyon, the trail gets pretty overgrown and there are some sections of low-hanging tree limbs where you either need to bend way down in the saddle or get off completely. This is a ride-in and ride-back-out kind of trail though there are quite a few spur and burro trails that veer off and reconnect.
This isn’t a crazy popular trail but it can be moderately busy with hikers an dogs when the waterfalls are flowing. Keep an eye out for burros in this area.
Getting Here
Where to Park: Horse trailer parking in Red Rock is limited. Do not go to the First Creek Trailhead, as there is not enough space for a rig. The best place to park a horse trailer in Red Rock is the Lower Red Rock Parking Area. This is a big gravel lot with space for several trailers. From here you can easily access the Pine Creek, Oak Creek, and First Creek trails. Because of how busy this area can get, you should get there early to make sure you can get a spot.
Trail Maps
