Ice Box Canyon
Overview of Ice Box Canyon Hike
An easy out and back hike for most adventurers, this is a great hike to do once the weather starts warming up as it has a lot of shade. During the colder months, the waterfall is stronger.
Ice Box Canyon Hike Information and Stats
Route Type: Out and Back
Distance: ~2.5 miles
Elevation of Peak: ~4,000
Elevation Gain: ~400
Hiking Time: 2 – 3 hours, depending on the pace
Difficulty: The trail into the canyon is easy and for those who are more adventurous, there is scrambling further into the canyon near the end of the waterfall area.
Be careful if you decide to try and climb up the steep rocks leading up to the falls because going up is way easier than going down. I’ve climbed up before and nearly got stuck. Plus, there isn’t really anything up there worthwhile anyways, just a puddle.
Getting to Ice Box Canyon
Directions: Once you pass the pay booth, drive approximately 8 miles on the Scenic Loop and look for a sign that says Ice Box Canyon, which will be on the right.
Trailhead: Marked and easy to find.
Parking: There is a small parking lot and it is recommended you start your day early to find a spot.
Fees: There is a fee to enter the area and the most current information can be found on the Red Rock Conservation Area website.
Other Information About Ice Box Canyon
Restrooms: Yes, at the parking lot/trailhead
Cellular Service: Spotty at best in the parking lot and little to none once you’re inside of the canyon
Kid Friendly: Yes but the further you go back into the canyon the more difficult it may be for younger children. The trail has larger rocks to navigate (see photo below) which could easily turn an ankle for those who are not careful.
Dog-Friendly: Yes but there are some places that dogs may need assistance depending on how far you go into the canyon. Also, be sure to keep your dogs on a leash and clean up after them
What to Take on Your Hike to Ice Box Canyon
With Ice Box Canyon being a little more moderate in its difficulty, I would recommend taking hiking boots over a tennis shoe simply because of the ankle support that the boot gives you to prevent any accidental injuries. As far as water goes, I personally take about 3 or 4 liters but in reality, I only drink about 2 most of the time.
Obviously, if it’s hot like in the summer months, more water is always needed but it’s always a good idea to take at least an extra liter as a reserve just in case.
When it comes to sun protection, hats and sunscreen are always used when I hike Ice Box Canyon but because you’re hiking in a canyon, you may be able to hide from the sun in case you don’t bring any sunscreen or sun protection.
Online Reference and Resources for Ice Box Canyon
- Ice Box Canyon map on Red Rock website
DISCLAIMERS:
- I am a hiking enthusiast and not an expert, the information shared here is from my personal experiences and research to share with others as a reference.
- All stats such as distances, elevations, elevation gains, ratings, and times are approximate based on mobile apps, GPS data, Google Earth, and other references compiled as a resource.
- Click here to view my current hiking diary of other trails and points of interest for reference.