If you want to spend a few hours out in nature, hiking in Red Rock is a top choice. Fossil Ridge Loop is no excepton. This trail will give you fantastic views of Red Rock Canyon and the Mount Wilson area. If you are heading west on 159, go past the scenic loop entrance at Red Rock, look for the horseback riding sign at Cowboy Trail Rides and park on the side of the highway or in the dirt lot for free. The trailhead will be on the right, just after you walk in. We started out on Bunny Trail, then up Cat in the Hat and came down Fossil Canyon and Rock Garden. Bunny Trail section is fairly easy but when you get to Cat in the Hat is when the elevation gain starts to kick in. Take your time in this section, make a few stops and turn around to enjoy the great views this trail offers. On a side note, this is also the section that gave me my first (and hopefully last) encounter with a rattle snake. The Western Diamondback was hanging out in the shade under a small bush on the edge of the trail. I was lucky enough that it just gave me a warning with the ratlle instead of actually wanting to bite me. We waited for it to slither away so we could get a pic of my new friend. As you start to come back down, you will eventually make your way in the Fossil Canyon. High walls will keep you enclosed on your left and the canyon below will be your view to the right. You will finish you hike as the trail opens back up on the Rock Garden Trail. Expect to be on this trail for 2 – 3 hours. We were back at the trailhead in 2 1/2 hours, that includes water and rest breaks. So when the weather is not too hot and your up for a little adventure, this is a great hike to spend a few hours on. If you have been on this hike let me know what you think and also check out some of my other outdoor activities !!!
