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Brownstone Canyon (horse trail to dam)


Highlights:

Long sand & gravel trail into canyon, water horses at dam, enjoy picnic lunch
Near:Blue Diamond, NV
Scenery:
Distance:12.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:2150 ft
Hike Time:6.5 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:OK, but a few difficult spots
HikeType:Out and Back



Summary: This is a spring/fall/winter ride -- much too hot & dusty in the summer for the 10 mile ride to reach the actual trailhead to Brownstone. Your equine will be walking on a sustained uphill in soft sand & gravel for over 2,000 ft. elevation gain so it's critical they be "legged up" & in shape. There is no water until you reach the dam, so you'd better carry plenty for both horse & rider. If you have any doubts that your animal is in shape, don't attempt this ride -- you won't be able to get a trailer to the TH if there is a problem. Try your horse on a shorter ride in Red Rock like Oak Creek if you're not sure about Brownstone. Locals who live in Calico Basin use the route to Red Springs to reach Brownstone, which is shorter and easier. And, if you want to do a longer, possibly overnight ride, continue over La Madre and up into Harris Springs. Many washes, rock art & things to explore in this canyon, but remember your horse has 10 miles to walk just to get in/out
Trailhead: Do NOT attempt to reach the TH with your truck & trailer. You must unload along Charleston Blvd (SR159) and ride your horse 5 miles (1 way) on a gravel road, crossing Red Rock wash & the power line road to reach the gated TH. Brownstone Canyon Archaeological District is completely protected & is listed in the Natl Register of Historic Places -- this is sensitive habitat and easily damaged, so be very careful where you ride & tie your animals. Cross the RR wash along SR159 (after you pass the concrete detention basin & entry to shooting range) at 36.15328/-115.36615 & follow the gravel road to the TH at 36.18421/-115.42770. You can also reach the TH via dirt road #214. There are several nice washes in Brownstone to ride up, as well as the main "old jeep" trail heading towards La Madre. Water your horse (but not humans) at the dam -- watch out for game if your critter spooks easily. The sandstone cliffs are NOT suitable for riding -- stick to gravel & dirt trails. (Lat:36.15328 Lon:-115.36615)
Trail Guides for Brownstone Canyon (horse trail to dam):
Hiking Around Las Vegas
by Jim Boone (Jim L. Boone)

Hiking Las Vegas
by Branch Whitney (Branch Whitney)

Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter,
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Horses,
Ranger Contact: Red Rock Canyon NCA (702) 515-5350
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Kat Green, who has posted  86 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review

Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Nevada Hiking, Nevada Trails, Nevada Hikes, Clark County Hiking, Clark County Trails, Clark County Hikes

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