Tired of bright lights and city sights around Las Vegas? Head to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

Starting with the first stop off the one-way drive, people scamper down as many as 26 hiking trails to see desert plants, wildlife, and geology…

Red Rock Canyon draws visitors down and up its slopes like magnets draw iron shavings. Nearly every guest we take there careens down the hill from the first pullout lot off the one-way drive.

Wheeeee!

It’s so so easy to go down. It’s so beautiful, you just have to get as close as possible.

To ensure a premium experience like the great hike we enjoyed at Calico 1 and 2 with our friends the Lewises, we urge you:

• Take at least one liter of water.
• If you have hiking poles, pack them.
• Wear sturdy fresh-tread hiking shoes.
• Apply plenty of sunscreen.
• Wear a wide brim hat.
• Don’t forget camera lenses, binoculars, light snacks.

A complete experience includes side roads leaving the one-way to additional trails and scenic areas.

We don’t always go into the Visitor’s Center (or arrive during open hours), but suggest that you check the online schedule or call in advance.

You might time your visit for a Native American art show, photo contest display, or “live reptiles” ranger talk … almost always something interesting happening.

Here’s a short version of the show — this time only the wildflowers that bloom in late May.

For your after-hike, you could head to Red Rock Casino and sip on some cold ones at the Yard House. This location offers a memorable chocolate quad that quenches the heat of delicious spicy edamame.

We also like everything we’ve tried off the Enlightened Favorites menu at the chain brewery BJs at this Summerlin location across the street from the Casino.

Summerlin features top quality dining and entertainment options. Alhough residents might consider this area of Vegas a bit pricey. visitors heading off Strip might see it as a value.