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Writer's picture Denise Vasquez

How Accessible Is Accessible: Red Springs Boardwalk

Updated: Oct 2


Denise Vasquez Photography ©2022


If you’re visiting Las Vegas, looking for a desert oasis nearby, where you can enjoy the outdoors that is accessible to all, connect with nature, and go for a hike, be sure to add Red Springs Boardwalk to your list of things to do.

Denise Vasquez Photography ©2022


Built in 2005 to help protect and restore the area, Red Springs Boardwalk aka Calico Basin Boardwalk, is part of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area. No reservations are needed, and you won’t need your Access Pass for this trail. The area is fee free, has accessible parking spaces, accessible restrooms, and an accessible picnic area.

Denise Vasquez Photography ©2022


The 5 foot wide trail offers a .5 mile scenic loop hike, with many viewpoints with more space, and benches. The original wooden boardwalk was replaced by composite materials, and although the trail may be flat for the most part, and rated as being wheelchair accessible and “Easy”, this trail may not be easy for every BODY! We all have different abilities, and with there being a maximum grade of 8.3, and a elevation gain of at least 50 feet, the slopes and switchbacks at the beginning and the end of the trail can be a little steep if you’re using a manual wheelchair, rolling walker, walking sticks or a cane. Also be mindful that the boardwalk is elevated off the ground to help protect the environment, so be careful not to step back too far to take photos that you don’t fall off the boardwalk into the marsh.

Denise Vasquez Photography ©2022


As you wander through the ash trees along the trail, you’ll find informative signs describing the geology, wildlife, plants and historical importance of Red Spring to cultures and wildlife for over 6,000 years. Since my first hike on the boardwalk back in 2022, I’ve enjoyed so many things about this trail, from being able to see (Petroglyphs) Rock Art estimated to be over five thousand years old, connecting to the energy of the Calico Basin and Aztec sandstone formations, to photographing the beautiful open meadow, especially in the fall when surrounded by trees showing off its vibrant colors.

Denise Vasquez Photography ©2022


The best time to do this trail to avoid the heat and the crowds is early morning, and my favorite time of year to walk the trail is September through November when the leaves are changing colors. If you sit still long enough on one of the benches, you may see dragon flies, butterflies, rabbits, squirrels, hawks, coyotes, or even a fox. Never approach wildlife. If you love photographing wildlife like me, invest in a telephoto zoom lens so you can enjoy nature at a safe distance.

Denise Vasquez Photography ©2022


Friendly Reminders:

*Bring water and stay hydrated. There is no water available at this location.

*Check the weather as it can change at any moment, areas nearby are subject to flooding

*Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen

*Hike in the morning during cooler hours

*Stay on the boardwalk

*Respect nature, respect others and leave no trace


The Trail is located at the foot of the Red Spring Picnic Area, Red Spring, Las Vegas, NV 89161 Drive out West Charleston Blvd, turn right onto Calico Basin Road, and then drive into the Red Spring Trailhead. The parking area closes at sunset, so don't get locked in.


Denise Vasquez Photography ©2022


I trust that my research, area exploration, and personal experience sharing have been beneficial! I initiated this project in 2017, more than seven years ago. Through my journey, I have come to realize the importance of revisiting locations multiple times to provide updated information. This not only benefits me but also aids individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or those with limited mobility. Moreover, it helps raise awareness among trail users and park staff.


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