Ice Box Canyon Waterfall

Ice Box Canyon Waterfall is a seasonal cascade at the end of a narrow, shaded slot canyon in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. The canyon earns its name from the dramatically cooler temperatures inside — as the towering sandstone walls close in, blocking sunlight, the air temperature can drop 20 degrees or more compared to the open desert. The waterfall itself flows over the canyon's back wall during wet periods, cascading down the red and tan sandstone into small pools. The entire canyon is a geologic spectacle, with soaring walls of Aztec Sandstone displaying millions of years of cross-bedded layers.

The Ice Box Canyon Trail covers about 2.2 miles round trip, but despite the short distance, it earns a strenuous rating due to the boulder scrambling required in the canyon's interior. The first mile crosses open desert with spectacular views of the Red Rock escarpment. Once inside the canyon, the trail becomes a primitive route through and over boulders, with some sections requiring hands-on scrambling. The canyon narrows dramatically, and the shade, cool air, and occasional trickle of water create an entirely different environment from the sunbaked desert behind you.

December through April offers the best chance of seeing the waterfall flowing, typically after rain events. The canyon is worth visiting even without water flow for the dramatic geology and cool temperatures. Like all Red Rock Canyon trails, a timed reservation is required during the scenic drive's reservation period (October through May). Allow more time than the distance suggests due to the scrambling involved.