RED ROCK canyon

Over time, changing land and sea levels resulted in the deposition of sediments that became the gray limestone found at Red Rock Canyon. About 180 million years ago a giant sand dune field formed over what became the Western US. Over time, the weight of the sand layers compressed into stone. Exposure to elements caused iron-bearing elements to oxidize, like a "rusting of the sand." This resulted in red, orange, and tan colored rocks found in this great park.



The wild burros which roam the Canyon are well adapted to the Mojave Desert and survive high temperatures and long periods without green forage. They find natural springs and hidden waterholes throughout Red Rock.



The unusual formations make spectacular sights of various shapes and colors.