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 Reporter |
Summary: This is pretty much a "must do" peak for all local hikers. At only 5 miles, it is one of the shortest distance hikes to get such a great, unobstructed view of the Las Vegas valley. There is also a sign-in book inside an old ammo can, buried at the foot of a rock cairn on the peak -- always fun to read the entries and add your own. Be warned, this is not an easy walk. I highly suggest you read the detailed directions for this hike in either Branch Whitney's book (Hiking Las Vegas) or Jim Boone's website (Hiking Around Las Vegas) BEFORE you go so you get a good feel for the steep ravine section & the climb to reach the peak. The upper section of this hike is very rough, loose rock, steep falls, and many confusing side paths, with no distinct signage or main trail to follow. This trail can be extremely dangerous when wet -- during or after rain, and the peak is no place to be when it's windy or in the summer heat. If you're prepared, this is a GREAT hike !! Trailhead: 18 miles W of Las Vegas Blvd. on Charleston Ave. (SR 159) to Red Rock entry (fee) station. Take 13 mile scenic loop to the 3rd parking area past the entry station -- this is the Sandstone Quarry parking lot and it's really easy to find, go straight when the road curves sharply to the left -- there is a nice sign showing you where to park. This parking lot gets really, really full especially on weekends so go early for a place or be prepared to park further along the road and walk back to the trailhead. There are vault toilets at Sandstone Quarry pkg, but no water of any kind. Even though this is a short hike, it is strenuous with no shade so carry plenty of water. Dogs are technically allowed on this trail, but it is very strenuous and tough scrambling to the peak. Sandstone Quarry is also the TH for Calico Tanks & is very popular for tour buses, rapellers, climbers & yoga classes going on -- very busy and full of people! Follow signs for Turtlehead Peak trail. (Lat:36.16312 Lon:-115.45024) Trail Guides for Turtlehead Peak (Red Rock Canyon NCA): Keystone Hiking Trails Information by BLM - Red Rock NCA (BLM - Red Rock NCA) 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, Ranger Contact: Red Rock (BLM) ranger at entry to NCA (fee station) 702-515-5350 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Kat Green, who has posted 86 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 4 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by John on 11/30/2009 A very nice hike. My son (26) and I (52) did the hike in late November with great weather, sunny and about 50 when we started at 8:30 AM. This is a great hike for even those of moderate fitness with the right attitude. We did the hike in a total of three hours. Treking poles came in very handy in many parts of the hike those at times we packed them away in the scrambling areas. Remember, the hiking mantra, one foot in front of the other and sooner or later you will get there. Enjoy!
Reviewed by Kretch on 10/27/2009 I did this hike/climb yesterday. The weather was perfect, 72 and a light wind. Going up I met one hiker who said he had started out at 6 that morning. I was there for about a half hour all by myself enjoying the fantastic view and quiet. I lost the trail going up and found myself climbing some loose rock to the left of the trail area. This made the climb more difficult. When I go up again I will aim toward the ravine, which is where the switchback-type trail is located. I did find the trail coming down, which made it a lot easier. My hiking sticks helped a lot, esp. coming down. This is a much more difficult hike than the adjacent Calico Tanks and not as pretty, but the view is much more spectacular.
Reviewed by Ryan on 10/25/2009 This weekend was the first time I've completed this hike. The view is amazing and the hard work pays off. Made it to the peak in an hour and 38 mins! :-) 
Reviewed by HR on 8/9/2009 Hiked this trail many times, and like it because when you enter the top area there is not many people. Don't hear the noise from the many cars and bikes that now these days have occupied the Red Rock area that used to be a peaceful place. Close to the top there is a nice little peaceful spot.
Reviewed by Jorge on 1/31/2009 Really nice hike. Wonderful view of Vegas valley from the top. You need to climb some parts using arms and hands. 50 degrees on 1/28/09 at noon. 90' to the top, 60' to come back. Find the metal box at the top and sign the notepad.
Reviewed by Steve on 1/19/2009 75% of the way to the top, I told my son there was no way I would ever take this hike again. It was very strenuous. However, after seeing the view from the top, I decided I would definitely be back. I think I have already talked my wife into going with us. It took us 3 hours and 15 minutes there and back.
Reviewed by KAV on 1/18/2009 What a wonderful view from the top. I made the hike with my brother-n-law and my two sons (17 & 11). The hike is not for the faint at heart/health. I found the return trip more difficult than the climb. Either way, us Yoopers enjoyed the journey.
Reviewed by KDC on 1/11/2009 My 8 uear old son and I did thhis hike today. Left the truck at 12:45 and made it to the peak in about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Snow and Ice were met after making the turn at the ridge, extreme wind and gusts at the top. The east side of the peak before summit was freezing. Oh yeah today is Jan. 11th 2009. Great first hike of the year 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||