Nevada may be known for vast areas of endless desert, but our state is actually home to a diversity of landscapes and ecosystems. You just have to know where to find them. There’s a hidden gem called Pine Creek Canyon hiding in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. This place is truly a lush oasis that looks like it was taken right off a page from a storybook. However, the best thing about this little known spot is the fact that it’s home to trees that are believed to be over a million years old. You’ll definitely want to put a hike to this magical spot on your bucket list this spring. Take a look.
Pine Creek Canyon offers up some of the best scenery in the Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area. This hidden gem is one of Nevada's best kept secrets because hidden in this canyon is an abundance of enchanting ponds, waterfalls, streams, foliage, and ancient trees.
Not many people know that there is a pine tree forest hiding inside Red Rock. That's what makes this spot so magical. The hike into this ancient forest is rated as easy to moderate and is five miles out-and-back. However, you definitely won't regret the effort you put into seeing this place with your own eyes.
This hike truly has it all. As you begin traversing the trail, you'll come across all sorts of treasures. There's even an old abandoned cabin waiting to be discovered!
These old remnants appear to be the foundation of a small cabin. It's commonly referred to as the Wilson Homestead. Built in the 1920s, it was once a majestic two-story house (with a fireplace and apple orchard). However, it was abandoned in the 1970s and fell into disrepair.
As you continue on the trail, you'll notice the scenery begins to change. The surroundings become more and more dense with vegetation. The trail starts to follow a small stream, and you get the sense of being swallowed up by the beautiful canyon.
It isn't long before you're surrounded by looming ponderosa and pinyon pine trees. It's a strange sight to see smack dab in the middle of Red Rock, but it's breathtaking nonetheless.
This incredible little forest is thought to be over one millions years old, dating back to the last Ice Age. How crazy is that? It's believed the forest has survived for so long due to the cool air and water that flows through Pine Creek Canyon.
As you delve deeper into the canyon, the scenery gets more and more magical. Nearing the end of the trail, you'll come upon this beautiful area complete with trees, towering canyon walls, a small waterfall, creek, and a pond.
This place is a true oasis in the middle of the desert. Here you can hide from the heat and cool off while soaking in the small pool of water before making your way back on the trail.
To reach the trailhead of this hike, you'll enter Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area from the main entrance. Take the 13-mile Scenic Drive for approximately 10 miles until you see the trailhead and parking area (there are plenty of signs) on your right.
Did you know that Nevada was home to this beautiful ancient forest? There are all sorts of ancient gems hiding in our state. You can even hike to Nevada’s oldest living tree. Trust us, you need to see it with your own eyes!
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