Redstone Trail

Redstone is a mostly level, 0.56-mile loop from the picnic area around a red sandstone crag. The dunes that became this rock formed about 140 million years ago; their slanted layers are still visible up close. It is a good quick stop for geology and a close look at the rock, not a summit hike. Allow about an hour if you take your time at the signs and formations.

Some current trail information lists 1.1 miles round trip, while the trail’s GPS waypoints and the complete mapped circuit measure about 0.52–0.56 mile. This guide uses the closed loop around the crag; follow the signs on site and allow extra time if a washout has shifted the visible tread.

Start beside the picnic tables and restrooms and take the short concrete approach around the left side of the formation. The signed trail heads south into loose sand and gravel. It is unmaintained, and flash floods can wash away parts of the outbound tread. Keep going south-southeast toward the east, or left, side of the large crag until you pick up the path again. The loop skirts its east side, rounds the southeast corner, passes behind it, and returns through the picnic area. The walk is nearly level, with about 80 feet of elevation change, but don’t expect a continuous built trail. The rocks invite climbing; that is separate from the walking route, so stay on the loop.

These red formations began as desert dunes about 140 million years ago. Geologic forces hardened the sand into sandstone, leaving slanted bands that show how the dunes were laid down. The red crag stands out against the darker, gray-brown mountains around it. For a photo, keep some of that darker ridge behind the red layers; the contrast shows the rock’s shape better than a tight crop.

When wind smooths the loose sand, small tracks can show where kangaroo rats, pocket mice, lizards, beetles, or snakes have crossed. Kangaroo rats leave paired footprints with a tail mark between them. These are possible signs to look for, not guaranteed sightings.

Park at Redstone Picnic Area on Northshore Road around mile 27. The lot, covered picnic tables, accessible pit toilets, and trash receptacles are beside the start; drinking water is not available. The posted duration range is broad at one to four hours, so give yourself at least an hour if you want to read the geology signs and look around. A park admission fee applies and no reservation is required. Dogs are allowed on leash no longer than six feet. Summer heat is serious here, so bring all the water you need and choose a cooler part of the day.