Updates (current)

3-26-2007: Moapa Peak

Moapa Peak is one of the classic peaks in southern Nevada. The knife edge ridge hikers must walk is thrilling. If you are thinking about trying the hike, here are photos of the hike and the knife edge ridge:
Slide Show
Photo Collage

The route is in good shape. There's now a path most of the way to the knife edge ridge. The road to the trailhead only needs a high clearance vehicle. This hike should not be done if it's warmer than 85 degrees in Vegas.

3-21-2007: Skywalk Opening March 28th

The Hualapai Tribe will open the Skywalk on March 28th. The skywalk hangs out 70 feet over from the rim of the Grand Canyon and almost 2000 feet above the canyon floor. The tribe will have tour packages ranging from $49.95 to $199. The skywalk is located about 120 miles from Las Vegas on Eagle Point on the Grand Canyon Rim.

3-19-2007: Variety of Updates

Red Rock: The route to Juniper Peak is the best I have ever seen it. Cairns keep hikers on route and lack of brush lets hikers wear shorts. And finally, there's an alternative to the steep, loose path that travels up the center of the canyon. Instead of exiting to the right onto the path, stay in the wash. Head right along a path at the top of the hill. It soon interests the main path.
The route up Gunsight Notch is also in great shape. It's easy to follow and brush free. At the top of the notch you have several alternatives: scramble up to Gunsight Notch Peak, head over to Rainbow Wall, climb to Walk Up Wall, or head down Gunsight Notch Canyon making a loop out of the route.

Mt. Charleston: The snow is melting fast in Mt. Charleston. This is the time to go see the waterfalls: Big Falls, Little Falls, Mary Jane Falls, and Fletcher Canyon.

I have heard the BLM closed many gravel roads within the Las Vegas city limits. The closure effects the road leading to the southern route to Gass Peak. I have not tried to access Gass Peak, but have been told the closure adds at least two miles to the hike. The road to the northern route trailhead is still open.

3-12-2007: Boot Boulder and Juniper Peak

On Sunday, 11 hikers made their way to Lost Creek Peak with a stop at Boot Boulder. This is a huge boulder visible from Willow Springs. The collage has many photos of the climb and the boulder. A slide show of the entire hike is coming soon. Many agree this is one of the best moderate hikes in Red Rock Canyon.

The Juniper Peak route is in great shape. It's well cairned, very clean, and an ammo box protects the sign-in book. Juniper has been a favorite of local hikers for many years.

3-1-2007 Mt. Charleston Snow Report, Buy Photos, Decision Peak

The snow base at Ski Lee is 30 inches. All runs are opened. Total snowfall for the season is 65.5 inches.  All trails and route have snow on them. If you are not into snow and cold, Red Rock or Lake Mead is the place to hike.

If you like the photos on HikingLasVegas.com, you can now buy prints from SmugMug. Prints come from a professional printer and many sizes are available. To see the photos and/or buy them, surf over to:
http://branch-whitney.smugmug.com/

On Sunday, February 25th, eight hikers made their way to Decision Peak in Red Rock Canyon. Although windy at times, the peak was actually very nice. We made a few much needed alterations along the route. Look for cairns marking these changes.

2-14-2007: Snow in Red Rock Canyon

Yesterday Eva, Richard, and I just got off White Rock Hills Peak before the snow started. We did a new route up one of the gullies on the west side of the mountain. Members will be able to download the hike in March.
Today I went out to Red Rock and took photos of the snow at sunrise. The good news is Red Rock did not receive much snow. It should melt by the weekend due to the forecast calling for warm temperatures.

2-4-2006: Hike to Oak Creek Overlook

On Sunday, Feb. 4th, ten hikers scrambled to Oak Creek Overlook in Red Rock Canyon. Although this is a new hike, it's already a favorite hike among locals. The hike takes about four hours to complete and involves lots of climbing.
Photo of the Overlook.
Slide show of the hike

1-29-2007: White Rock Hills Loop Trail and Northern Route to Mescalito

Last Saturday Susan, Missy and I hiked the White Rock Hills Loop Trail. This 6.5 mile trail circles the massive White Rock Hills Mountain. It's an easy hike and well marked by Red Rock standards. There are plenty of photo opportunities on this hike.

On Sunday, eight hikers enjoy the pleasant temperatures and hiked to the top of Mescalito. We ascended through Fern Canyon (northern route), which eventually joins up with the normal route at the windsock tree. From there the route follows the ridgeline weaving and descending to the saddle before Mescalito. We enjoyed lunch at the summit under bright blue skies. We then descended the normal route (southern) and were back to the trailhead around 3 pm. Slide show of the hike.

1-25-2007: Hoover Dam Bypass Project and Arizona Hot Springs

According to the Highway Administration engineer overseeing the project, the new completion date for the bypass has been pushed back to 2010.This is due to the collapse of two cranes in September of last year. Once completed this will cut the driving time to Arizona hikes (Lone Palm, Fortification Hill, Liberty Bell Arch, Mt. Wilson and others) by 20 minutes or more.
With the wind blowing last Sunday, we changed our hike from Fortification Hill to AZ Hot Springs. We were protected from the wind while hiking through White Rock Canyon. On the other hand, Fortification Hill is very exposed to wind. The hot spring is in good shape. The sand bags look like they were replaced recently. This is one of the better winter hikes. It's rated as a level 2 hike.

1-19-2007: Dry Falls Loop and Peak

I just published an update version of Dry Falls Loop hike. The hike now continues onto Dry Falls Loop Peak. Great vistas (Panorama) from the peak of Lake Mead, Fortification Hill, and Muddy Mountains. I feel this is one of the top five hikes around Lake Mead.
Although the temperature is getting warmer, there's still ice in most canyons in Red Rock. Many of the canyons do not see a lot of sunshine this time of the year.

1-8-2007: New Peak at Lake Mead

I just published the best hike in the Lake Mead Area: Anniversary Narrows Peak. The hike travels through the Narrows, ascends to a saddle that has an unbelievable view of the Bowl of Fire, and then climbs a thrilling ridge to the summit. The road construction is finished on Lake Mead (even though the signs are still around) and road construction on Northshore Road is beyond mile marker 16, the turnoff for the above hike.
Both Gold Strike Hot Springs (NV Hot Springs) and Arizona Hot Springs are in good shape as reported by Nick Nelson.

1-3-2007: Lake Mead and Red Rock

There's road construction during weekdays on Northshore road. Be advised you might encounter delays. This includes the following hikes: Anniversary Narrows, Bowl of Fire, Hamblin Mtn, Northshore Peak and others).
 We are doing a new hike to Anniversary Narrows Peak this Sunday. Speaking of Anniversary Narrows rock fall has created a class 3 section in the Narrows. It's an easy climb that small children can be lifted over.

The Las Vegas Overlook hike now has a great trail all the way to the Muffin boulders. Susan and I hiked it a few days ago. I rewrote the entire hike along with new photos.

12-19-2006: Snow Update:
All trails and routes in Mt. Charleston are snow covered. Snowshoes are needed. Some roads may not be plowed.
Red Rock received a bit of snow. All north facing routes have snow. East and south facing routes have less snow.

11-25-2006: 4th Annual Thanksgiving Day Hike:

This year we hiked to Crabby Appleton Peak via a new route through Pine Creek. 13 hikers met at 8 am and by 10:30 am were standing at the summit. Later that night we had our annual Thanksgiving Day get together featuring food, videos, and slide shows of past hikes.
Slide Show of Crabby Appleton Hike

11-20-2006: New Peak
Yesterday (11-19-2006) Doyle, Richard, Eva, Peter and I hiked to a new peak in Oak Creek Canyon (Red Rock). Although not a high peak by Red Rock standards, it was a wild route to reach the summit. At certain points along the route it appeared we would need ropes. We named this peak Oak Creek Overlook. The vistas from the summit into Oak Creek Canyon are the best I have seen. The peak is located on the south side of Oak Creek Canyon.

11-8-2006: Gunsight Notch Peak and Gunsight Notch

Yesterday I hiked to Gunsight Notch Peak via Gunsight Notch Canyon. The route has been recairned and cleaned. At the forks of Terrace Canyon and Gunsight Notch Canyon I placed cairns and made a "T" out of rocks by the cairn for Terrace Canyon. I made a "G" by the cairn for Gunsight Notch Canyon.  I then descended via Gunsight Notch and cleaned the route. The route now extends all the way to the rope by the base of Rainbow Wall. No more ascending or descending the loose path! Panorama from the summit of Gunsight Notch Peak.

11-4-2006: Mescalito and White Rock Hills Peak

I recently hike to Mescalito via the Mescalito Fork (southern route). The route is well cairned and relatively brush free. Although not a high peak, the route to Mescalito is a classic filled with twists and turns.

 On Friday I hiked to White Rock Hills Peak. Although I hiked a new route, the descent was the same as the southern route up to a point. From the summit to where the descent route took off in a different direction, the route was well cairned. If anyone is hiking to White Rock Hills Peak, please bring a container for the register. The current contain needs replacing.

10-23-2003: Rainbow Peak

We hiked to Rainbow Peak via Oak Creek Canyon on Sunday. The route is in pretty good shape; however, the container housing the register is not. If you are hiking to Rainbow Peak, please bring a container. It was a great day with almost perfect weather. Long time hikers, Eva and Richard, joined us. We descended through Gunsight Notch and followed the new path back to Oak Creek parking area.

10-12-2006: Terrace Canyon

Terrace Canyon is a local favorite and one of the most scenic canyons in Red Rock. Unfortunately the route was not the easiest to follow. That has changed now.  No more easily missed turns or ascending a loose path just before entering the canyon. The brush is gone and new cairns have been placed. Next time you are looking for a hike, check out Terrace Canyon. There's no hanging off the side of cliffs. IOW it's not a scary hike!

10-09-2006: Juniper Peak and Road Work

Juniper Peak, one of the best hikes in Red Rock, has been updated. The hike description includes the new trail into Juniper Canyon. The route has also been cleaned up and cairned.
Road construction on State Route 159 (the road leading to Red Rock) has begun. Expect delays up to 30 minutes during the weekdays. Construction begins (at least for now) just after the turn off for Red Rock, which is good. However, once you exit the Scenic Loop, you will be subjected to the delays unless it's after 5 pm.

10-05-2006: The Wave

We just returned from the Wave on the Utah Arizona boarder. What an amazing place. Here's a collage of the Wave. It's not easy getting permits for the Wave (only 20 people per day). Hiking Las Vegas will have all the details on permits, where to stay, and, of course, the hike description.

Last Sunday we hiked Bridge Mountain via Pine Creek. The route is in good shape, not brushy and well cairned. Other hikers we met at the summit had driven the Rocky Gap Road to the trailhead. They reported the road was not too bad; however, they did have an Xterra. It's a serious off-road vehicle. Starting from the official trailhead makes it a pretty easy hike.

9-30-2006: New Trail into Juniper Canyon

Juniper Canyon is home to Rainbow Wall, Gunsight Notch and Peak, Brownstone Wall, and Juniper Peak. It's a great canyon, but the "official" trail is almost impossible to follow. The new trail offers these advantages:

• Easier to follow

• Shorter

• Less parking problems
  (Trailhead is at Oak Creek Canyon)

• Less elevation gain

Download the Hike (pdf file)

9-25-2006: New Route, Scenic Loop Road, and Pine Creek Trail

We just found a new route to Crabby Appleton Peak in Red Rock. It's a short, class 3 route that I believe will become a favorite. I will post the route in October.
Rangers are patrolling the Scenic Loop. Make sure to drive the speed limit.
The path into the south fork of Pine Creek has been cleaned making it easier to follow. The quickest way into Pine Creek is by taking the official trail and go straight when it forks for Fern Canyon. The trail soon drops into a wash. Head west (right) in the wash about 100 yards and follow a path out of the wash. A large cairn sits on a boulder marking the path. Continue on the path. After 100 yards, the path descends (look for cairns) toward the wash. Just before the path ends in brush, go left on another path that leads to the wash.

9-21-2006: Tunnel Vision Peak

I just received a report the there are bees in one of the chutes along Tunnel Vision Peak route. A hiker got stung yesterday. I have never seen or heard bees while climbing the route, but have always done the route during winter months. From what I learn bees are dormant during the winter. Best bet is to wait until it gets cold to do this hike.

9-18-2006: 159 Widening Project

This is the road to Red Rock! Expect delays from 7 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday. For more information, please click here.

Also, US 93 at Hoover Dam is closed! This effects the following hikes: Gold Strike Hot Springs, Liberty Bell Arch, Fortification Hill, Lone Palm, and Arizona Hot Springs

On Sunday five of us hike through Lost Creek Canyon to North Peak and over to Lost Creek Peak with a descent through Graffiti Canyon. This is a fantastic route.

9-15-2006: Cooling Down

Temperatures will drop into the eighties over the weekend here in southern Nevada making it primetime for Red Rock. The 10 day forecast has temperatures in the eighties with a couple days in the low nineties. According to message boards, the Sierra is receiving a dusting of snow. This makes for dangerous climbing conditions. If you are not a snow person, the Sierra season might be over until next summer.

9-10-2006: Scenic Loop Open and More

The fire at Red Rock has been extinguished and the Scenic Loop is open again. Five of us followed the route through and out of Ice Box Canyon today. Being in the shade for a good portion of the hike helped keep us cool, although it was not too warm.
On another note, the road that starts just past Mountain Springs summit (on the way to Pahrump) and serves as access to The Park and other hikes is in bad shape. Davis and Tom reported they had to stop before the normal parking spot for The Park. This road was not in good shape before the rains of 2005; it is in worse condition now and most likely will not be repaired.

9-7-2006: Fire at Red Rock

Yesterday 9-6, lightening started a fire within the Scenic Loop Road. Both the Scenic Loop and SR 159 were closed to traffic yesterday and, according to the RJ today, will be closed today. For more information call 515-5350.

9-5-2006: 6th Annual Trip to the Sierra

Over Labor Day we took our 6th Annual Trip to the Sierra. This year we hiked to Mt. Langley, the southern most 14,000 foot peak in the Sierra. We divided into two groups. One group (Susan, Judy, Harlan, and Terri) hiked the 10 mile trail to the summit. The other group (Debbie, Richard, Ed and me) hiked the NE Gully route that starts from Tuttle Creek. Neither route is a classic. The trail is over 10 miles, one way. The NE Gully is one of the worse gullies I have climbed. It's loose, steep, and long. However, the view from the summit is awesome. Here's a panorama.

We already are planning for next year. Lone Pine Peak is the summit we have in mind for 2007.

8-23-2006: McFarland North Canyon Route

On 8-20-2006, we hiked to McFarland via the North Canyon route. I updated the hike description with waypoints. Members can download the hike now. As usual we saw over a dozen wild horse as we hike to the woods.

8-22-2006: White Mtn in California

Susan, Missy, and I hiked to the summit of White Mountain this past weekend. It's the easiest 14,000 foot peak in California. The scenery was incredible and very different from the Sierra or Mt. Charleston. The hike is no more than following a 4-WD road to the summit. Stats: 14 miles (round trip) and about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. Here's a panorama from the summit.

8-17-2006: Yosemite Rock Fall

The work on the "temporary emergency solution" to Highway 140 continues. The road is now open into the Valley once in the morning and open out of the valley once in the evening. On May 25 a massive slide swept over the road closing it for at least a year. In the last few months, CalTrans has worked to open a lane of traffic on the opposite side of the river from the slide.
 

8-14-2006: Starlight Peak in the Sierra

Ed, Luba, Mark, and I climbed Starlight Peak this past weekend. Starlight is generally regard as the toughest peak of all the California 14,000 foot peaks. It's striking appearance and route difficulty make it a prize for all peak baggers. Here's a slide show of our climb: Slide Show. Members can  download a complete route description. To learn more about Starlight Peak click here.

8-7-2006 Mummy's Chin/Forehead Traverse

On Sunday, 8-6-2006, we hiked to the three summits that make up Mummy's Head. We flew up to Mummy's Nose in two hours (Slide show). We then hiked over to Mummy's Forehead. After a short break we started the traverse over to Mummy's Chin. Instead of dropping down, we traversed the ridge. In my opinion this is the most difficult traverse I have done in Mt. Charleston. It's long, loose, and exposed. I believe this photo tells the story. The traverse should only be attempted by very experienced mountaineers. Protecting the traverse is difficult if not impossible.

8-3-2006: Snow Bridges

Although it seems laughable, there is still snow in some parts of Mt. Charleston. The two areas of concern are above Big Falls crossing over to the west side and the route to Charleston via Ski Lee. I am sure there are more. Snow in these areas are covered with debris, due to the avalanches this past winter, hence the snow does not see sunlight and has not melted.

8-2-2006: Weather and the Sierra

It appears the weather has stabilized around Las Vegas. The thunderstorms have subsided and the high humidity is gone. Take advantage because the thunderstorms might return.
I recently returned from the Sierra where we hiked Split Mountain. Here's a panorama and an information page from Split. Members will be able to download the hike directions with photos and GPS waypoints.

7-19-2006: Proposed 2,000 Foot Tower One Mile South of Moapa Peak

To read more about the environmental analysis, click on the following link:
http://www.nv.blm.gov/vegas/Environmental/Projects/MesquiteEA.pdf
To voice your opinion you must write to the following address:
Field Manager
BLM Las Vegas Field Office
4701 N. Torrey Pines Dr
Las Vegas, NV 89130

If you have questions call Marilyn Sowa at Realty Specialist (702) 555-5122

 7-17-2006: Fletcher Peak and East Face Route to Charleston Peak

Yesterday seven hikers followed the route through Hummingbird Hollow to the top of Fletcher Peak. The lower part of Hummingbird Hollow is messy. Scree and brush make for tedious hiking. Once above the initial gully, the route is enjoyable. Many hikers might not realize that Fletcher Peak has some of the best views of any summit in Mt. Charleston. Here's a panorama.

On Saturday we hiked to Charleston Peak via the East Face Route. If you have never seen the power of an avalanche, take a look at this photo. Before the avalanche the drainage was very clean. You should add at least 45 minutes to the route. It's slow going through the drainage. Obviously the path through the drainage is gone. 

7-13-2006: Weather Stabilizing and Road Conditions

It looks like we are having a period of stable weather for a few days, meaning mountain thunderstorms might subside for awhile. You should still bring a rain jacket and watch the sky.
Last Sunday hikers drove the Harris Spring road to the trailhead for Griffith and Harris Peaks. The road is in good condition. A high clearance vehicle is recommended.

7-9-2006: Monsoon Season

If anyone had doubts about the monsoon season, I think the following will convince them it's here. On Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of this past week hikers experienced rain, hail, thunder and lightning. To make things worse the bad weather moved in before noon on each day! I would have to say go prepared not only with the proper gear, but with the attitude there's a good chance you will have to turn around before reaching the summit. Here's a photo of South Sister from today's hike. Photo.

7-7-2006: Yosemite Update

Delayed nearly a month by heavy spring snowfall, some facilities at Tuolumne Meadows have finally opened, providing gas, food and lodging for visitors to Yosemite's high country. You can read the complete article by clicking on this link.

6-24-2006: Stanley B. Springs

Today Susan, Missy, and I hiked Stanley B. Springs. There's still quite a bit of water flowing in the drainage. Currently, this is a good hike to do with dogs. The water helps them stay cool during the summer months. Since this trail does not reach high elevations, it can be fairly warm. This hike passes mines and caves; do not enter them.

Big Falls, Parking Tickets and Cathedral Rock

Big Falls is still flowing as of 6-19-06. The snow is gone, but the water is flowing in the wash.

You will get a ticket if you park to the south (left) of the bathroom at the parking lot just before Cathedral Rock Picnic Area. Parking before the bathroom along the road is permitted along the west (right) side of the road.

We just hiked to Cathedral Rock on Saturday. The seasonal waterfall (about halfway up) is flowing. The sign indicating to veer right (near the summit) is still missing.

6-14-2006: Misc
Last Sunday we hiked to Mummy Mountain via Mummy Springs. The route is in good shape and is one of the best routes to Mummy Mountain.
I just published a video of the hike to Raintree, which is on the way to Mummy Mountain. The Mummy Mountain video will be available soon.

6-9-2006: Fire at Red Rock Canyon
There's a fire off of the Rocky Gap road in Red Rock Canyon. The Scenic Loop is still open, since the fire is nowhere near the road.

6-4-2006: Snow Update for Mt. Charleston
All routes except north facing gullies are doable. The one gully that comes to mind is the gully leading to the saddle below Mummys' Heads.
We just hiked to Griffith Peak today. There was snow but nothing to stop hikers from making the summit. Look for a video of the hike soon!

6-3-2006: Charleston Peak and Havasu Video

Charleston Peak is doable via North Loop Trail by post-holing once beyond Devil's Thumb. We will be hiking to Griffith Peak via South Loop Trail on Sunday and I will report on the conditions.

Check out a short video of our annual Havasu Backpack and Hike. All video was taken with a digital camera! I also have a slide show of the hike down to the Colorado river.

5-31-2006: New Panoramas
We nailed Bridge Mountain in Zion, a seldom climbed peak. It's a great route that I will publish this fall. It's too warm to hike in Zion during the summer. Here's a panorama from the summit

We also did the Monument Traverse hike on Tuesday. The last section of the hike travels to Hidden Peak. I had never taken a panorama from the summit until now. Panorama from Hidden Peak.

 Look for videos of the Fern Canyon route to Mescalito and the South Loop Trail to Griffith Peak this coming month (June).

5-25-2006: Snow conditions in Charleston

Big Falls - doable and lots of water
Mary Jane Falls - doable, some water at the falls
Trail Canyon - snow free
Griffith Peak via Harris Springs - snow near the summit, easy to avoid.
Griffith Peak via South Loop - fair amount of snow below the Meadows
Mummy Mtn - standard route doable
Charleston Peak - all routes still have some snow
Bristlecone Trail - snow free
Bonanza Trail - snow on west side of ridge
Any west or north facing routes will have snow if above 10,000 feet.
The snow is melting fast. Should be gone by mid-June if the weather holds.

5-24-2006: Bridge Mtn in Zion

Probably most people reading this have not heard of Bridge Mountain in Zion National Park. The peak is seldom climbed, but is well worth the effort. Yesterday Mike and I climb to the summit scaling the east face. It's a fairly long hike. Here's a panorama from the summit. There's also an arch about halfway up the west face. The description will be published next fall. It's too hot to try during summer months.

5-22-2006: Yosemite Update, Mescalito and Big Falls

According to the latest reports the cables on Half Dome are not up and might not be erected this year. Snow level is around 7,000 feet. Tiago Road is closed and there's no projected opening date as of today.

We hiked to the summit of Mescalito in Red Rock on Sunday. The route up Fern Canyon is in good shape and well cairned. The descent through the Mescalito fork is also in good shape and easy to follow. Look for a video soon.

On Saturday we hiked Big Falls in Mt. Charleston. The waterfall is really flowing. You will encounter water shortly after entering the drainage. There's still a bit of snow near the waterfall.

5-20-2006: Our Havusa Trip

Everyone enjoyed the trip and many people asked if this will be an annual event. It will be. I believe this is one of the best backpacks and hikes (to the Colorado River) in the country! Here's a montage of the amazing waterfalls and scenery. Here's another montage of hikers enjoying the trip.

5-16-2006: Snow in Charleston

There's still quite a bit on snow in Mt. Charleston. Mummy, Griffith and Charleston all have snow on their routes. Here's a photo of Griffith Peak taken on May 14th by Nick. Big Falls, Mary Jane Falls, and Fletcher canyons all have water thanks to snow melt.

5-8-2006: New Trail into Juniper Canyon
This new trail is faster, shorter, easier to follow, and eliminates overcrowding parking at Pine Creek Trailhead

Park at Oak Creek inside the Scenic Loop. Follow the signed Arnight Trail crossing a wide, but shallow wash around 0.5 miles from the trailhead. Continue on the trail another .33 miles and turn left onto a well worn path marked by a cairn. This is the point where the Arnight Trail starts heading north away from Juniper Canyon. Follow the path about 350 yards to a well groomed trail. (Do not veer left when the path divides just before it intersects the trail.) Turn right onto this trail, walk 10 yards, and turn left onto a path. From here you can see the huge boulder in Photo 1 you will eventually hike pass. Follow the path until it intersects another well groomed trail. Go left on the trail about 20 yards and turn right onto a path. (If you continue on the trail you end up in a deep wash.) Follow the path going just to the left of the huge boulder in Photo 1. Drop into a wash and walk about 10 yards up the wash to a cairn marking where you exit the wash via a steep hill. Turn left onto another well groomed trail and walk about 30 yards where you intersect the Juniper Peak Path (JPP), the path that travels into Juniper Canyon.

5-4-2006: Pine Creek via Bridge and Desert Peaks

Last Monday Susan and I hiked to Bridge Mtn via Pine Creek. This is an excellent hike and a favorite route to Bridge Mtn by many locals. We placed more cairns and cleaned the route.
On Tuesday, Ed, Mike, and I hiked to Hart Peak west of Searchlight, NV. It's a decent peak, but a fairly long drive and a short hike. However, the Castle Peaks are nearby. These are the dramatic looking pinnacle seen from Highway 95 near Searchlight. Here's a collage of the Castle Peaks.

4-22-2006: Fletcher Canyon, Goodman Peak, and Calico Tank

On 4-20 we hiked to Obstacle Rock in Fletcher Canyon. Water is rushing through the canyon and there's still snow left in the slot. It's very scenic. Hurry the snow and water will not last long!
On 4-21 we hiked to Goodman Peak. The route is in good shape, but the sign-in book is gone.
On 4-22 I hiked to Calico Tank. It's full of water.

4-18-2006: Rainbow Wall

Yesterday (4-18) Luba, Valentina and I hiked to Rainbow Wall in Red Rock Canyon. If you have never been to the top of the wall, here's a photo to show you the view looking down from the top.

4-16-2006: Rocky Gap Road

We drove up the Rocky Gap Road on Sunday to hike Bridge Mtn. The road deteriorates quickly just after the pullout for North Peak Trail. I had to put my vehicle in 4WD twice up to that point. The mileage from the start of the Rocky Gap Road (where the pavement ends) to where we parked is about 2.5 miles. I write "about" due to differences in tire size and air pressure in the tires.

4-12-2006: Warm Days Are Here

With the warmer days, make sure to bring more water to drink. Speaking of water, check out the new video of Lost Creek Waterfall.
Last Sunday we hiked to Mt. Wilson via Cleaver Crack. This route is a local favorite.

4-8-06: Snow Melting Fast!

With the warm temperatures and sunny days, the snow is melting fast. Virtually all routes are now doable in Red Rock. The melting snow has creating some spectacular waterfalls. I thought we might have to swim to Terrace Canyon. Today we hiked to Lost Creek Waterfalls (upper and lower). Both falls were really flowing.

4-4-06:Waterfalls and New Hikes

Lost Creek Waterfall, First Creek Waterfall, Mud Springs Waterfall and Calico Tank are all at their prime now!
The snow has melted creating these easy to hike to waterfalls.

I just published the following hikes:
Spirit Mountain - Classic peak near Laughlin, NV
Eagle Mountain - One of the better desert peaks. Just across the California boarder on the way to Death Valley
Kraft Mountain Up and Over - Short hike to the summit of Kraft Mountain with a wild descent into Gateway Canyon
Dead Horse Point - Very intense route up a challenging gully on Mt. Wilson to a summit that puts up a fight!
 

3-21-2006: Snow in Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock got dumped on today creating the opportunity for great photos. With temperatures hovering around 80 degrees this weekend, most of the snow should melt by Sunday.

3-20-2006: Snow and a New Peak

More snow for Mt. Charleston. The snow base around 8,500 feet is now 40 inches.
Southern routes in Red Rock are pretty much snow free; northern routes have snow. With temperatures near eighty degrees this weekend, the snow will melt fast.
On Sunday we hiked Eagle Mountain near Death Valley. This is a great winter hike. Members can download this hike now.
Panorama from Eagle Mountain

3-15-2006: Video and New Hike

You might have seen photos of White Pinnacle Peak. Now there's a video of the hike!

I just hiked up Kraft Mountain, traversed to the east and descended. Look for the hike description in April.

3-13-2006: Snow and Black Mtn

Mt. Charleston received another two inches of snow last night. All trails, routes, and peaks are snow covered. No hiking for awhile.

Red Rock also received snow.  All trails leading into canyons are snow free as are Calico Loop and Kraft Mountain Loop hikes.
I just publish an interesting interactive photo of Red Rock peaks taken from the Black Mountain trail. To see it: http://www.hikinglasvegas.com/interactive_photo_Red_Rock.htm

3-11-2006: Snow

Mt. Charleston has received 5.3" of snow in the last 24 hours. Restrictions are in effect. All vehicles required to use traction devices or be 4wd. Red Rock received a dusting of snow on Thursday and Friday with more expected today. It's not recommend to hike off trail until the snow melts. Also, watch for ice in the canyons.

We recently hiked to the summit of Cactus Flower Tower  (Red Rock) and Spirit Mountain (near Laughlin, NV). Cactus Flower Tower is a seldom hike peak. The easiest route has small section of class 5 climbing. It stands just north of Mt. Wilson

3-4-2006: Blue Diamond Highway (State Route 160)

Due to the increasing number of accidents on Blue Diamond Highway, the speed limit has been reduced to 45 mph on Blue Diamond Highway from Las Vegas Blvd. to Durango. This affects most drivers travelling to South Red Rock (Black Velvet, Hidden and Windy Peaks).
Note: Taking Fort Apache to Blue Diamond Highway was still a mess about two weeks ago.

Virtually all the snow has melted in Red Rock. There's still some ice in the upper parts of the canyons.

2-20-2006: Rocky Gap Road

The Rock Gap Road has been repaired. There was a terrible spot just after the wash (about one mile in). I am not sure a car could make it, but any high clearance vehicle will be able to get through now. Whoever did the repairs did a good job. I am not sure if the road has been repaired all the way to Red Rock summit (trailhead for Bridge Mtn.), but I believe a high clearance vehicle could make it the trailhead for North Peak (about 2.5 miles in).

Any north facing route in Red Rock will have snow for most of the week. We even encountered a little snow on the La Madre trail today.

2-19-2006: Snow

Red Rock got hit by snow this weekend. It appears to start around 4,500 feet. Depending on the weather this week, it could be melted in a few days.
Mt. Charleston received almost eight inches of snow. All trails are covered with snow currently. Good for snowshoeing; bad for hiking.

2-17-2006: Pyramid Peak

On 2-16-2006, Ed and I hiked to the summit of Pyramid Peak. This is the gigantic mountain just off of Highway 190 on the way to Death Valley. The views from the summit are awesome (panorama). We did a new route that is much more direct than the standard route.

2-14--2006: Water and Roads

Calico Tank is full of water. Later in the year it will be dry. With the perfect days, this is the time to take the family and enjoy this natural oasis.

The road through Hidden Valley is in bad shape. A high clearance vehicle with 4WD is needed. The road leads to the trailhead for Muddy Peak.

2-9-06: Web Site Updates

 I just published new slide shows of the following:
Red Rock Slide Show
Mt. Charleston Slide Show
Lake Mead Slide Show

2-6-2006: First Creek Waterfall

We hiked to First Creek Waterfall today. It's really flowing. This is a very easy hikes that both children and dogs can enjoy.

2-5-2006: Ice in Canyons

Even though the days are warming up, there's still ice in the canyons. Eight of us hiked to Juniper Peak today through Pine Creek. We navigated around two places that had ice. The route has been recently cleaned and is in good shape.

1-17-06: Historic Railroad Tunnel Hike

There's construction happening on the trail. I have received conflicting reports how which part of the trail is open. Before hiking this trail I suggest calling the visitor center at Lake Mead. The number is: 293-8990.
On a different subject watch for ice in the upper canyons in Red Rock Canyon.

1-12-06: New Hike and Updated Hike

We hiked to one of the high points in the Ireteba Range on Tuesday. The trailhead is about an hours drive from Las Vegas. The hike is only class 2 and has great vistas of the Colorado River. I also hike Lava Butte today. There's a new access road to the trailhead. The road is in great condition. The updated hike description has new photos and waypoints. Check it out: Lave Butte.

1-9-2006: New Hike

I just published Black Mountain, an easy hike on the outskirts of Henderson. It's the highest point in the area and the summit offers great views. Check it out: Black Mountain

1-2-2006: Gold Strike Hot Springs and Mt. Charleston

We hiked to Gold Strike Hot Springs on New Years Day. Gold Strike Canyon is opened and the road leading to the trailhead is in great shape. The hike is pretty much the same; however, there are no signs at the trailhead. The pools that were filled in with dirt and rocks have been dug out. The main pool is smaller, but will still hold at least 10 people. Here's a photo of the largest pool.

Mt. Charleston has received over four feet of snow this weekend. From what I read the snow level is around 7,500 feet. More snowfall is expected tonight

12-26-05: Mt. Charleston Area

There's very little snow up in Mt. Charleston. The South Loop Trail can be hiked to Charleston Peak without crampons or snowshoes. This can change at any time, and, of course, it is much colder at the summit than down here in the valley.
On another note, the road to Fortification trailhead is in good shape. With all the rain this past year, many of the dirt and gravel roads might be difficult to drive.
(Thanks to Nick for this update.)

12-19-05: Snow and Ice

 Mt. Charleston saw over a foot of new snow this past weekend. All trails and routes are covered with snow. Snowshoes are recommended for trail hiking, if you can follow the trail!
Red Rock Canyon has some snow at higher elevations. Watch for ice in all the canyons and up high on steep slabs. I guess it's time to start thinking about hiking around Lake Mead.
Gold Strike Hot Springs is open again!

12-10-2005: Watch of Ice

Watch for ice in upper parts of the canyons in Red Rock. This is especially true of the north facing canyon.
The trail leading into the wash in First Creek has been cleaned. This should make it easier to follow.

12-5-2005: Misc.

Gold Strike Hot Springs is open again. There's a good gravel road, off of US 93, leading to the trailhead. I heard the main pool was destroyed by all the rain over the past year. There's  an active group maintains the pools. Hopefully they can fix the main pool.

Yesterday we hiked to the summit of Tunnel Vision. The route is well cairned, but make sure to test suspect rock. We knocked down two large flakes yesterday. Sandstone by its very nature is brittle. Be sure to check any suspicious rock on the less popular routes. We try to knock down loose rock, but there's no way we can find all the loose rock on a route.

11-08-2005: Pine Creek Trail and More:

Pine Creek Trail has been rerouted a little before where the trail divided. The fork to Fern Canyon is not as obvious now. Click on this photo to see the changes.
On Sunday 12 hikers scrambled to Bridge Vista.  The summit has great views of Bridge Mtn. and Bridge Point. Since the upper part of the route is north facing, this hike should be done before it snows. The route is well cairned.
The Scenic Loop Road now closes at 5 p.m.

10-24-05: Misc.

We hiked to Windy Peak this past Sunday. The road to the trailhead is in bad shape. A high clearance vehicle is a must! The route is in pretty good shape. Cairns help guide hikers up ramps, through slots, and to chimneys.

It snowed in Mt. Charleston this past week. I heard the snow level is around 9,500 feet.
Five of us took a trip to Zion and bagged North Guardian Angel, one of the lesser known peaks. I while at the summit,  took a panorama.

Remember, to set your clocks back this Saturday night