The Calico Hills Trail provides hikers a prime view of the colorful namesake hills. While the Scenic Drive road does parallel the hills, hiking the trail offers an up close view of the many intriguing red rocks. While the official start of the Calico Hills Trail is at the visitor center, it's recommended to start the hike from the Calico 1 parking area and turn around at the Sandstone Quarry trailhead.

To enter the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop Drive you’ll need to make a reservation, unless arriving before 8:00 AM. To do so visit their website. In addition to the reservation, a fee of $15 is charged per vehicle for entry. Annual passes are available and a National Park Pass is accepted.

Once in, you can begin the Calico Hills trail from either of the two trailheads mentioned above. Starting from Calico 1, the trail lies just downhill from the parking lot. Once on trail enjoy the fantastic views of the red hued Calico Hills, and be sure to keep an eye open for rock climbers as this is a fantastic place for it.

There are a few ups and downs along the trail, but nothing too strenuous. You’ll soon come to my favorite stretch of trail, one that descends down through some cool rocks - you could almost call it a shallow slot canyon. You’ll then pass the junction where you can climb up to the Calico 2 parking area.

The views continue as you hike on. Soon there will be a large boulder beside the trail where, if you look closely, you’ll be able to see some ancient Indian petroglyphs. Eventually the trail comes out at the Sandstone Quarry Trailhead. Unless continuing on to hike Calico Tanks, turn around and head back the way you came.