Red Rock Canyon Loop Trail

Red Rock Canyon Loop Trail is a 0.44-mile paved loop around and across a small canyon, with red, green and pale rock walls close to the path. It is an easy 20-to-30-minute stop with one short uphill stretch and little overall climbing. Do this for the close-up geology and creek views, not for a long hike.

Start at the interpretive panels by the upper parking lot. The circuit follows both canyon rims and crosses Red Rock Creek at each end, so you get a different angle into the gorge as you go. There is a brief rise near the far end; the rest is a short, easy circuit. Keep to the paved path because the canyon environment is fragile.

The red and green bands are argillite, a shale-like rock. Iron in the rock turned red where it oxidized and stayed green where it did not; pale stretches are limestone or dolomite. These layers began as sediment at the bottom of an ancient sea about 1.5 billion years ago. The interpretive panels help make those colors more than just a pretty view.

From the rim path, frame a little creek below the red and pale bands instead of aiming only at the rock wall. The water breaks up the bands and shows how close the trail runs to the canyon.

Use the upper canyon lot for this loop; the lower lot is the start for the separate Blakiston Falls walk. In summer the paths and upper parking area can get busy, so arrive early for a quieter visit and a better chance at a space. Park admission is required. Dogs are welcome on the trail when leashed and under control. Red Rock Parkway closes to vehicles seasonally from October to May, depending on weather, so check road access before driving up. If you want more walking, Blakiston Falls is a separate 1.2-mile return from the lower lot.