Redstone Picnic Area•Lake Mead

00:00     Title
00:14     Northshore Road
05:33     West End Wash North   
10:27     Redstone    
15:49     Wild Horses    
17:58     Echo Bay 
22:35.    Stewarts Point    
25:39     Fin​
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There is much more to the Lake Mead National Recreation Area than just the namesake big body of water. This national park covers a vast amount of ground surrounding both Lake Mead and Lake Mojave, so there are endless overland adventures in store that range from mild to wild. For those who wish to just get some fresh air, do a little hiking and relax in the shade, there are plenty of options. One of the best definitely is the Redstone Picnic Area, simply because the majestic wind carved red rock setting is absolutely captivating!

The Redstone Picnic Area is located along Northshore Road a few miles south of Echo Bay, which is a fully developed marina with campgrounds. Redstone is a roadside attraction that is fairly remote, so an empty picnic table can be found on practically any given day. The parking is ample, there are facilities and most of the picnic spots are covered with sun shade canopies, which is a real plus in this arid desert environment. Better still, the picnic table sites are spread far apart and some are located in nooks between the red rock outcrops. Each picnic site offers fascinating views of the landscape. Spotting wildlife while doing lunch can be done too. Coyotes and wild horses frequent this area, so be sure to keep a camera handy for a surprise wildlife show.

The eroded red rock outcrops that Redstone is famous for actually are a continuation of a massive ancient upheaval in this region. The red rock strata runs from the west end of Grand Canyon Parashant and Gold Butte through the north end of the Lake Mead Recreation Area. The Valley Of Fire State Park is the epitome of the red rock geology in this area and this destination is located just a few miles north of Redstone. Touring both Redstone and Valley Of Fire in the same day will provide a better understanding of the red rock geology and such a plan will also provide endless great photo opportunities.

Hiking the eroded red rock areas of the west is always done at a casual pace, since there are so many animated outcrop shapes to interpret along the way. This kind of hike is perfect for a family picnic outing and the weird looking red rocks are natural entertainment at its best. For this reason, be sure to pack some extra munchies for the picnic, because the visual experience at Redstone is all consuming!