Sculpted sandstone formations at Calico Tanks in Red Rock Canyon

Calico Tanks Trail Guide

Know the trail · Red Rock Canyon, Nevada

Calico Tanks

Sandstone steps. A hidden water pocket. Space to notice the next faithful step.

Learn the route before you join a gathering, and choose the walk that fits your present ability.

View the October 24 gatheringPrepare for this trail ↓
Sculpted sandstone formations at Calico Tanks in Red Rock Canyon
2.2–2.5 miRound trip
About 2 hoursWalking time; allow longer for pauses
≈406 ftEstimated elevation gain
Out & backReturn along the same route
Moderate, with strenuous sections. This is an intermediate hike with uneven sandstone, rock steps, and scrambling that may require your hands. A short distance does not make it an easy walk. This route is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Route measurements vary: Red Rock Canyon’s trail page lists 2.2 miles; BLM lists 2.5 miles. Plan for the longer distance. Elevation is an approximate planning figure supplied for this gathering.

What the path asks of you

A little effort. A different perspective.

The route begins at Sandstone Quarry, inside Red Rock Canyon’s Scenic Drive. It moves from a desert wash into a sandstone canyon, following rock terraces toward a natural tank—a seasonal water pocket called a tinaja.

Expect stretches where balance, careful foot placement, and route-finding matter. The tank may be dry. Scenic views depend on where it is safe to stop; reaching a particular overlook is never more important than returning together.

Is this your next walk?

You should be comfortable walking on uneven ground for about two hours and stepping up or down rock ledges. If you are unsure about the scrambling or your ability, contact the leader before registering. Tell the leader early if you need to pause or turn around.

A natural water pocket surrounded by sandstone at Calico Tanks
Calico Tanks, Chelise Simmons / BLM Nevada, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0. Display crop; water levels vary. Lead photograph: Alex Demas / USGS, public domain.

Prepare with care

Bring what helps you stay present.

Carry with you

  • Water for the full hike and extra for delays; start hydrated. Do not rely on water at the trailhead.
  • Closed-toe hiking shoes with reliable grip, plus a small backpack that leaves your hands free.
  • Sun protection, a hat, snacks, and layers for wind and changing temperatures.
  • Personal medication, identification, a charged phone, and an offline trail map.
  • Optional: a small journal, pen, Scripture, or Journey Companion for quiet reflection.

Check before leaving

  • Review current weather, alerts, closures, and the leader’s latest event message.
  • Download directions and your vehicle reservation before entering the canyon; cell coverage is limited.
  • Avoid wet, slippery sandstone. Conditions may require a route change, postponement, or cancellation.
  • Keep to established routes. Pack out all trash, give wildlife space, and leave cultural sites and rock art untouched.
Packing listWeather & conditionsLeave No Trace

SELAH · Pause • Breathe • Listen

Light for the next step.

Psalm 119:105 offers a reflection for this trail: God’s word as a lamp for our feet and a light along the path.

As you walk: What next step can you take with the light you already have?

At a safe pause: Notice your breath, your footing, and the people walking beside you. Share if you wish; silence is welcome.

Carry home: Write one insight and one small action you want to bring into the coming week.

Entry, timing & gathering details

Where does the trail start?

At Sandstone Quarry on the one-way Scenic Drive. For a group gathering, use the event’s meeting location first; it may be a carpool point outside the conservation area.

Do I need a Red Rock reservation?

For vehicle entry between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., October through May, arrange a timed-entry reservation for each vehicle. Admission or an accepted pass is separate. A hike RSVP does not reserve park entry. Drivers should coordinate the arrival window with the leader.

Official vehicle reservations and current fees

What happens during an A Hike With God gathering?

We gather, check in, pray, and walk with space for conversation, Scripture, and a Selah pause. We close with reflection and prayer. A Hike With God is a Christ-centered community that welcomes people of every faith and background in a shared agreement of Love. Sharing is always an invitation.

Where do I register?

The event page holds the date, exact meetup, carpool arrangements, and RSVP. This guide explains the trail and does not register you for a gathering.

October 24 · RSVP details

Waiver process · Trail safety · Trail guides

Trail references: Red Rock Canyon trail overview, BLM recreation guide, and official trail map. Reviewed October 15, 2026. Check current conditions before each visit.

A Hike With God — a Guided Warriors program.