Pine Creek Canyon Trail

Looking for a pawsome place to take your pupster? Then grab the leash and make your way over to Pine Creek Canyon Trail and get hiking! This furrific trail is located inside Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area between Bridge Mountain and Rainbow Mountain. It’s named for the many pinyon and ponderosa pine trees in the area.

Several trails start at the Pine Creek Canyon Trailhead, so it’s impawtant to watch for signs and stay on the right path when you come across the junctions. From the parking lot, the trail drops down into an open desert meadow that is full of native plants. As you and your doggo make your way across the flat, soak in the views of the tree covered gray and red mountains. If you have some extra time, follow Dale’s Loop and Fire Ecology Trail. Both are less than half a mile and let your pal see more of the beautiful area.

Before you know it, you will be at the mouth of the canyon where the rock walls close in around the narrow wash. From here, you can either follow any of the spur trails to the well known climbing spots on the north canyon wall or delve deeper into the canyon before the cliffs prevent you from going further. You may encounter thick vegetation and some challenging spots. If it’s too much for your pooch, you can always turn around.

A day pass for Red Rock Canyon costs $15.00 per vehicle. An annual pass is $30.00 per person, which allows for lots of trips to this pawrific area. Bring plenty of water to share, and clean up bags. Restrooms are available in the parking lot. This trail will definitely make your pup’s tail wag!