Parking is in the lot immediately outside of the Horseback Rides gate.
After the lower sets of stables, look for the trail as it branches off of the dirt road to the left.
Loose rock will make up most of the trail surface for the hike.
A dense grove of Joshua trees before the climbing begins.
The route begins relatively flat before heading up the tall ridge visible in the near distance. The Muffin Boulders are visible atop the leftmost high ridge.
A view over the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and visitor center.
At the higher elevations, an array of desert flora soon appear.
The ascent to the overlook will put your legs to the test.
From a saddle with the first views across the Las Vegas valley, one more climb takes you to the overlook.
Las Vegas city skyline from the overlook point.
Las Vegas city view from the overlook point.
To continue on the loop route, from the overlook point, head toward the radio tower.
The second half of the loop route is much more scenic.
Winding trails on a mellower grade mark the second portion of the loop.
Sedimentary rock towering over the Fossil Canyon Trail.
A forest of desert plants along the Rock Garden return trail.
The trail is a popular equestrian route and has signs of their use throughout.
The route traces areas of visible tectonic movement and flash flooding.
The mountains of Red Rock Canyon make the backdrop to the return hike.
Hiking toward the bottom of the Red Rock Canyon valley.
The last descent toward the trailhead.