Potato Knoll Loop

An easy hike in Red Rock Canyon outside of the Scenic Drive Loop. This is a great hike at Red Rock Canyon without driving the Scenic Drive to get to the trailhead. The trailhead is the large parking lot at the exit of the 13 mile Scenic Drive. It's sometimes referred to as the horse parking lot. From the parking lot, cross the scenic drive exit just inside the tire spikes. The trail goes southwest toward the Potato Knoll, the large mound at the base of Mount Wilson. The first part of the hike is across open desert. Soon you'll descend to a dry creek bed with lots of boulders. The trail is very easy to follow on the other side of the creek. It winds back and forth for a way, and there are some side trails. You eventually come to a fork in the trail. Along the Knoll, you'll see some wonderful rocks formations and some great cacti. In July, some of the Barrel Cactus were just starting to bloom. On the far side of the Knoll, there is a trail that goes to the top. If you're adventurous or want to extend your hike, continue up this side trail and enjoy the view from the top. Return to the base of the Knoll to resume your hike around. This part of the hike takes you past the trail to Oak Creek. Instead of going to Oak Creek, stay on the trail going around the Knoll. You'll pass through two more dry creek beds before joining up with the trail you came in on.