Calico Tanks Trail The Turtlehead Peak / Calico Tanks Trails offer some of the best hiking and views in Red Rock Canyon. There is a lot to see in this area because it is unique in its own way and because it is located at a spot which gives hikers views of the rest of the valley.We should note that these are not easy hikes to go on. The good thing about this set of trails especially is that you can turn back any time and still have seen a good part of Red Rock. The Turtlehead Peak hike is a 5 mile round trip that is listed as strenuous by the BLM and we would list this one as challenging. The other listed trail is the Calico Tanks Trail. Unless you are in good condition and you want a good workout, we suggest the Calico Tanks Trail. Either trail can be easy to lose because they both run through a wash. Once you are on them, they are well marked. Both trails begin at the same place, they both pass by a couple of attractions worth noting.

The first spot. Sandstone Quarry, is notable for its cut marks and left over blocks from a time when the yellow sandstone was mined. The second notable spot is the Agave roasting pit that you will see on your left as you head towards either trail. The people who lived here in the past roasted the centers of the Agave plant in large holes in the ground filled with rocks and combustible material. This process made the plant edible and evidence of its use can be found throughout Red Rock Canyon, at Willow Spring for example, and the Spring Mountains. Just past the Agave pit, will be the 'turnoff' for the Calico Tanks Trail. There two marked trails but it seems like a lot of people just wander around in this part of the trail.

The views are spectacular here and no matter which direction you go, you will see something that will make it all worth it. When looking south at the Wilson Cliffs it is possible to notice how the shadows at different times of day or of the year, will make the cliffs and the rocks appear more three dimensional than they really are.