Turtlehead Peak – Red Rock National Conservation Area

Nice, strenuous, little hike. I had a great workout in the Vegas heat! I didn’t see the ammo box with the book so I’ll have to go back to sign it. As always, Red Rock is beautiful and the view from the top is spectacular :)

It’s been over or around 16 years since I last visited Turtlehead Peak (THP). My how the memories of my late 20’s have seemed to fade. Back in the 90’s, I bought Branch Whitney’s, «Hiking Las Vegas.» It was a book about 60 hikes within 60 minutes of the Strip. Back in the those days, the information in this book was pure gold. I sumitted THP a minimum of 2 times and a maximum of 3 times. Again, time escapes me so I cannot say for sure.
The evening before May 9^th, the GF, who has had THP on her bucket list for many years and I came up with a plan to conquer the peak.
Armed with a newly purchased National Parks Pass, we arrived in the somewhat early morning hours. I was a bit taken back by the about of traffic on a Monday. Through the gate we went to the Sandstone Quarry parking lot. Again, I was taken back by the other vehicles already parked there.
We prepped and I threw on my shoulders, the already field tested Tenzig. Bucket list check off for the GF… a training op for me (THHE). A quicker check of Whitney’s publication, confirming what I thought I already knew about there being no trail but only a route to the summit, we followed the written words and proceeded as it instructed.
Something seemed off. Something seemed amiss. Was it Father Time playing hell with my senses. Nothing seemed familiar to those days… now…so long ago.
We would eventually make our way to the chute after trail blazing to it’s base. The sounds of other hikers confirmed our suspicions we were in the right place.
Up the chute we went. Beware… there are many trails. The only one that really matters is the one you are on that goes up. There was for a time a sequence of green dots painted on rocks. We assumed this was route. In retrospect, I am not sure when those dots were placed. All that mattered was the accent.
Eventually, we would make it to the ridge line leading to the backside of the turtle. The backside was a little more radical than I remembered. I had told the GF once we made it to that point, it would be a gradual climb. Damn you Daddy Time! It was more of an angle than I remembered.
Some two hours and forty-​five minutes later we would find ourselves at the summit. The GPS had us at over 2000 feet of elevation gain in 2.5 (approximate) miles. The view from the top is one to behold… You are actually above the many man-​made whirly birds flying in the immediate area. Hearing swifts zoom by like Sidewinder missiles and performing organic aerobatics was better.
We hung out for little while under the shadow of a Juniper Pine taking in the sights and sipping JetBoil tea. I also got to manipulate the Vortex spotting scope I was lugging around with me.
We headed down after a while. Following the natural flow of things led us to a refined trail unlike the one we had followed up. There was no green dots. Just the a well defined path that took us down the chute above other hikers following the same route we had up. This particular path is the furthest right you can go heading down. If you’re going up… it on the left.
Once down from the chute, we followed an even more refined trail that actually had markers. This was not the book and must have been placed after its publication.
One interesting observation I made was that 99% of the people we found on the trail up and down were friendly and returned our greetings. The closer we got to the parking lot, the more this type of courtesy became infrequent. I have a theory I will address when I write my Red Rock Conservation Area review.
All in all, I absolutely recommend you check this off your list. I will say that regardless of the time of year… no summer… bring water. I passed several people going up and or coming down with no water! BRING WATER! Again, I have a theory about this to be addressed later.
Respect & ENJOY! Kudos to all those that have given a description of the experience and logistics of this amazing experience.

no proper trails, you can easily get lost. always hike in groups and this is a deadly trail, seriously. dont hike when the weather is windy & stormy.

Excellent hike: great views, strenuous but not technical or dangerous (the trail doesn’t skirt any drop-​offs) although trail sections with loose stone were a pain coming down. On the way down, take a detour (left of the trail) into a small canyon. Mid-​April weather was perfect — not too hot, important because there is almost no shade — otherwise in the summer, time your hike to avoid going up in mid-​day.

Such a fun hike, about 5 miles round trip and did it in about 3 hours (pretty in-​shape folks). Very rocky and super windy the day I went… Sometimes I feel we may have been off-​trail but still made it :)

Challenging hike. I would say tougher than Camelback in Scottsdale. Trail not well marked which was a tad stressful as it was 1^st time and I was solo. Last 200m was an unmarked scramble to the summit but worth the trip. I would put this on the must do list for hikers visiting the Vegas area

A great and difficult trail, it was unfortunate that I didn’t get to sign the signature book when I was up there but I will be sure to do so when I go back!
The trail starts with a slightly steep ascent and gradually increases to where you can feel the burns in your calves. A great work out nonetheless — if you’re hiking Turtlehead in the winter expect to encounter snow and ice towards the last leg of your trek.
I suggest bringing gloves, durable shoes, optional hiking sticks/​pole for descent and last leg.

The most strenuous hike at Redrock Canyon climbs 2,000 ft in 2 hrs to the top elevation of about 6300ft. I can see where it would be very hard if you aren’t in decent shape. The views from the top are worth the effort you have to put in. The trail is not very clear cut. On the way up you just kind of find your way with trial and error. There is some loose rock and steep areas you will encounter. It took us 3 hrs to hike the whole thing rpund trip and we relaxed and took in the scenery at the top for an additional 30 mins. I would advise some of the easier or moderate trails if you aren’t in decent hiking shape. I am in good shape and hike often. By the end of our trip I admit I was pretty tired.

One of the tougher entry level hikes in Red Rock. Be prepared to complete destroy normal running or walking shoes on the sand stone and sharp rocks on the way. There is no clear path up but if you follow the trail signs, then stick to the left of the gully on the way up you should see many footpaths. You want to aim yourself to be about 100 feet to the left of the flat rock face/​wall of Turtlehead, then wrap around the back and up.
Kids who are used to hiking and listen to their guardians (about not going near the edge) will enjoy the hike. We’ve had 8 – 10 year olds out a few times and I’ve seen dogs a couple times. I would not recommend dogs without protective booties though on their feet. They’d get torn up :(
Be careful of the cactus and sharp bushes — bring gloves just in case you take a slight tumble. I’ve seen many people pulling 2 inch thorns out of their hands here. Watch your step, drink plenty of water and enjoy the view.
Red Rock has roughly 12 other peaks in the park on the scenic loop which are not marked trails by the park though they are well established by the hiking community. Check out Juniper Peak, Rainbow Peak, Bridge Mountain, or if you are feeling adventurous White Pinnacle Peak. Juniper is my favorite for a good 3 – 4 hour hike!

My friends and I hiked this over Memorial Day weekend. It was easily the most difficult hike I’ve ever done, period. That made it even more gratifying to make it to the top but let me tell you, don’t take this hike lightly. It really is dangerous and you need to be prepared with lots of water, snacks, the right shoes, and sunscreen. There is zero shade for most of the hike so don’t try this one when it’s really hot out. The elevation climb (over 2,000 feet in only 2.5 miles) is EXTREMELY taxing on your body and then you still have to worry about going down!
One of my friends who is really afraid of heights couldn’t finish the trail so keep that in mind if you have a severe fear of heights. The trail is not all that well-​marked and it’s very easy to get off track so only do this one with someone (preferably several someones) who knows how to get up and back. We ended up scaling the mountain rather than taking the trail itself, which I would only recommend if you are in really good shape and have great balance.
With all of that being said, the views at the top are pretty amazing. Take some great selfies and don’t forget to sign your name in one of the books in the geocache box at the top! This one isn’t for the faint of heart… once was enough for me for sure! A rainstorm blew in while we were at the top, which made going down even more treacherous!

Turtle peak trail is the most craziest hike ive ever done! so hard and wanted to quit so many times. Had a billion panic attacks but all in all im glad to be in bed right now. I got brusies left and right but im so glad I did it. I even got to sign the in the books up there! That was my main goal. Ive only hiked 3 times im not a pro at all… scared of heights as welk!!! I weigh 210 lbs but guess what! I DID IT!!! So proud!!!

It’s a decent technical trail. Hardest part is coming down. It’ll look like 10 ways to get down but only 2 are right.

Turtle Head Peak is one of the more difficult trails at Red Rock Canyon. It is about 2 ½ miles to the top. There is a lot of loose rocks and unstable footing along the trail. Once you get to the top though, you have a great view of the canyon.

The best hike in the Red Rock Conservation Area!
We spent several days in Vegas and had definitely planned on including several days of hiking during out stay in addition to the night life on the strip. The hiking provided a nice contrast to the bright lights and crowds of the strip.
This is rated a «strenuous» hike thus be prepared. Bring water, snacks and proper shoes and attire.
The hike was about 5 miles round trip but was very vertical! Very worth it! It had recently rained so part of the trail had been washed out but we were able to catch the trail at different parts. It starts out as gradual climb with some small bouldering but as you make it up the mountain you will need to use hands to climb up in sections. We started early and were able to avoid much of the heat. You climb through different rock strata starting with the red rock and making your way up to granite cliffs.
Just when you think you are almost there it keeps climbing, but whoa! The view was amazing. You get an incredible view of the strip to the east and the entire red rock conservation area to the south.
Don’t forget to sign the GeoCache box at the top!

Ok. So it’s about time for this update.
I finally made it to the top of turtlehead about a month after my initial review and have since been up there several times.
It really is a strenuous hike, but the view up top and rewarding feeling of accomplishment that comes along with it is addicting and keeps me coming back for more.
I’ve decided there is no «right» way to hike to the top, there are just hard and harder ways to get up there. Being a person who likes maps and rules and designated walkways, it’s hard for me, but I make it. I still believe the path could be better marked. I think there are only like, all of maybe 3 trail makers the entire time.
First time I made it to the top, there was a mini American flag and container with the notepad you can sign and couple other goodies. Over the summer and a few months later, the flag is gone but the container was still there last time I went up.
This hike is not for the timid or faint of heart. Wear sunscreen and pack tons of water. And know it really will take up a few hours of your day. But it’s worth it when you get to the too! Just remember to save energy for the way down though!

This is a challenging hike to one of the most prominent peaks in the Red Rock Canyon area.
You’ll wanna be in half way decent shape if you’re gonna go for this peak as it’s a real work out. But the views are well worth it.

Such a fun hike, definitely a mixture of mild to moderate terrains and I would say a moderate incline.
Getting to the top was definitely worth it– as you can see the pretty colors of the rest of Red Rock in the distance and on the SE side you can see the LV Strip.
Breathing taking view which makes the 2.5 miles to the top definitely worth it.
Only thing is, is that there aren’t very many trail markers and there are many different trails to get to the top, which can get a little confusing.
Best time to go is during the Spring time, I really enjoyed this hike :)

By far I think this is the most difficult trail in red rock canyon national park and offers the best view of the whole park. I guess depending how fit you are, even though this is rated as a difficult hike, people in shape should be able to do this without a problem. It’s about 5 miles with half of it going uphill. Not recommended for beginners at all. And be prepared with plenty of water and a small snack to reenergize when you reach the top. The climb itself is about 2075 ft so it does get tiring.
I’ve done this hike about 7x since moving to Vegas 3 years ago. Summer was a killer since it gets very hot. Bring plenty of water, a sunscreen since this trail offers no shade at all and also stay on the track or you’ll be doing more climbing than necessary. Spring time is the best season to do this hike. I’ve even ran into a herd of mountain sheep here before. I was in awe seeing these magnificent animals in such close proximity but I was also scared of the fully horned male charging at me. I stayed away at a safe distance. I don’t recommend at all doing this during winter time because its cold as heck, yes it does snow up here at times, and it’s harder to see your footing and cactuses when there is snow up here.
Once you reach the top, you’ll see why I rated this hike 5 stars. Definitely a must try if you’re an avid hiker and prepare well always as in most intermediate and strenuous hikes.

Wow. Difficult is not the word I would use to explain Turtlehead Peak. How about «extremelystrenuousandrewarding»
6 hours round trip, 2 liters of water, holes in my shoe, change in headband, backpack tan, sunglass tan, burnt arms, sore legs, and dirt all over my body was the result of my trip at Turtlehead Peak. Making it to the top of Turtlehead Peak I was rewarded with a really nice cool breeze, an ammo box holding a signature book, and one of the best views I have ever seen in my life. Worth it? Yes. Would I do it again? Probably not.
Would not recommend for something looking for a nice stroll in nature or a quick hike (less than 4 hours).
What I learned from my experience and mistakes is that you should have the following items with you:
1. Excess water (better to have more than less in this case)
2. Sunblock
3. Hiking shoes or comfortable shoes that you don’t mind destroying.
4. FOOD! (I really lacked on this one, I ate prior to the hike, but all that uphill really took a toll on my energy. I appreciate the kindness of whoever left a Clifbar inside the ammo box holding the signature book. Don’t think I would of made it down without one)
5. A companion
6. A map or GPS device.
7. Focus
8. Patience
P. S. Don’t get off the trail like my group did within the first 15 minutes. There are trail markers for you that will make the trip a lot less strenuous and more enjoyable.
P. S.S. The first part of going down can be dangerous and it is easy to slip, so be careful!

This is a difficult five mile round trip hike within the Scenic Drive at Red Rock Canyon. There is a 2,000 foot elevation gain over 2.5 miles. This hike should only be attempted by experienced hikers. You need hiking boots and a backpack with water and perhaps a snack or some protein bars. All that being said, the payoff of the view when you get to the peak is worth the work and pain of getting there.
The trailhead is at the Sandstone Quarry parking area, the 3^rd parking area along the Scenic Drive. From the west end of the parking lot, walk past the red and white sandstone that was left when the quarry closed in 1913, I think. There’s evidence of their activity, and there are some interpretive markers to explain how they cut the stone and why they went bankrupt.
The trail goes through a wash and then continues west. You come to a junction. To the right is the Calico Tanks trail. You need to go straight. Both trails are marked at the junction, about the last trail marker for Turtlehead. From then you start gaining elevation, slowly at first, and then more extreme.
Eventually you reach the end of the sandstone formation and the trail cuts north. Now the going gets tougher. There are switchbacks to help with the elevation gain. In places, the gravel is quite loose – an excellent reason for wearing hiking boots.
At this point, take a look up to the saddle to the left of Turtlehead. That’s your first goal. There are two large boulders near the saddle and you should aim for them. There are a number of spider trails, but if you stay to the middle trails or slightly right, and keep going up, you’re doing the right thing. The area gets very steep in places. The first time I hiked this, I stopped to catch my breath, and I started sliding backwards standing still. I never thought I’d make it, but I pressed on after a break.
Eventually, you reach the saddle, and you have payoff number one. The view into Brownstone Canyon is simply awesome. The sandstone colors are truly beautiful and you feel almost on top of the world. But you’re not – that’s about to come. At the saddle, the trail goes right. This is the route up the back slope of Turtlehead that leads to the summit. Just like coming up the chute to the saddle, there are a number of trails that hikers have made. If you stay to the right, nearer to the edge, you will be taking the faster route, but I think it’s a bit harder.
Finally, you get to the summit and you are on top of your world. The 360 degree view is tremendous. Far off, you can see the Las Vegas Strip, and as you pivot, you look across Red Rock Canyon and see the tiny Scenic Drive. You can also see all the washes that run through the NCA. To the west, you have views of the Spring Mountains and Griffith Peak at Mount Charleston. Take the time to relax, sign the log book in an ammo box in some rocks near the highest point, have a snack, and take lots of photos. The peak is very large, so there’s plenty of room there.
To get back to the car, go down one of the trails from the summit keeping your eye out for those large boulders near the saddle. When you get there, you’ll see where the trail descends. Take the downward part of the hike easy. This is very difficult, and sliding and falling is a distinct possibility. At the base of the chute, start breathing again, and get ready to have a big smile because you’re almost done with your conquering of Turtlehead. Just over a mile to go the the parking area! Congratulations!
Happy hiking!