Overview:
Located within the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area is a unique geological wonder to explore. The Kyle Canyon Slots (a.k.a. Harris Slots) is an adventure thats sure to leave an impression. This short hike (for kids of all ages) weaves and winds thru an impressive slot canyon with towering canyon walls. From the "official" trailhead (see trail directions below) follow the wash upstream between narrow walls of conglomerated material (cemented: sand, gravel, rock). This conglomerate (an alluvial-fan) was historically deposited by runoff (from the Spring Mountains) that eventually solidified and to this day is subjected to erosion by wind, freeze / thaw cycles, rain and the occasional flash flood. As a result the canyons "sculpted" walls, in places very narrow and often greater than 100 feet high, provide spectacular scenery for the visitor and critical habitat for a variety of wildlife species (birds, small mammals and reptiles - watch for snakes).

From the aforementioned trailhead (just beyond the end of Crested Wheatgrass Rd.) the hike thru the Kyle Canyon Slots themselves is a short 2000 foot+- (out and back) excursion. Along this route hiking is easy with little elevation gain and no obstacles of great concern (a few tight squeezes - easily negotiable). Navigating thru the first of two narrow slots the canyon quickly transitions into a somewhat wider and longer section of "open" canyon followed by the second narrow slot near trails end. Exiting the second slot, brings visitors to the end of the hike as described on this web-page: return by reversing route. Beyond the second slot the Kyle Canyon Wash widens as one continues upstream, providing additional roaming in this picturesque canyon. Note: Even though the Kyle Canyon Slots themselves remain partially shaded and relatively cool avoid the area during extreme heat, especially if you walk from the parking area near Kyle Canyon Rd. (see trail directions below - use your own judgment).

  
...trailside scenery
  

Information / Tips:
This adventure would make a great stopover while enjoying the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. Bring plenty of water / snacks, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and hiking boots (advised). Make sure you have a full tank of gas and a fully pressurized spare tire.
•  Don't forget your camera
•  Kyle Canyon Hike: not ADA accessible
•  No amenities in immediate area
      visitor center, restrooms @
      Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway
      4 miles+- West of Harris Springs Rd.
      N36.27072  W115.58847
..........
nearby: Desert Natl. Wild. Refuge
nearby: Desert View Overlook Trail
nearby: Fletcher Canyon Trail

Warning:
This adventure involves travel to a relatively remote area, please refer to the section on desert travel for safety information.
•  Be mindful of flash floods
•  Avoid during extreme heat
•  You are responsible for your own safety

Trail Directions:
From WP1 (see driving directions below) as you travel South on Harris Springs Rd. there is a large dirt parking area immediately to the right (West) of Harris Springs Rd. Visitors can park here and walk to the Kyle Canyon Slots or continue driving (both alternatives utilize the same route). Note: Harris Spring Rd. and Crested Wheatgrass Rd. are not regularly maintained and may be problematic for some vehicles (typically good for high clearance vehicles - use your own judgment). Continuing South on Harris Springs Rd. cross Kyle Canyon Wash traveling to the intersection (WP2) of Harris Springs Rd. and Crested Wheatgrass Rd. (approx. 0.13 miles+- from WP1). From WP2 turn right (Westerly) onto the single track Crested Wheatgrass Rd. (USFS Rd. #45532H) traveling parallel to Kyle Canyon Wash for a total distance of 0.38 miles+- to "roads end" at edge of Kyle Canyon Wash and WP3. Note: Parking is available (although somewhat limited) along the last 350 feet+- of Crested Wheatgrass Rd. From WP3 descend into Kyle Canyon Wash then head upstream for a total distance of 140 feet+- to the "official" trailhead and WP4. Continuing upstream travel thru both the lower and upper slots of Kyle Canyon for 1000 feet+- (depending on how much you wander) to WP5 and the end of this trail description. Return by reversing route.
..........
Trail Summary (out & back distance):
~~~~ Hike Entire Route: 1.36 miles+-

P:         Parking Area
HSR:    Harris Springs Rd.
CWR:   Crested Wheatgrass Rd. (USFS 45532H)
KCS:     Kyle Canyon Slots
..........

WP1:    N36.27431  W115.52078

WP2:    N36.27238  W115.52044

WP3:    N36.26961  W115.52522

WP4:    N36.26932  W115.52541

WP5:    N36.26775  W115.52775

Note:
See desert travel for GPS Waypoint info
All distances and waypoints are approximate

Driving Directions:
From I-15 (Las Vegas Fwy) at W. Flamingo Rd. head North on I-15 for 4.1 miles+- and merge (utilizing the right 2 lanes) towards US-95 N (Exit #42A). Continue on offramp for 0.2 miles+- merging Westerly toward US-95 N. Continue Westerly thru interchange for 0.8 miles+- (utilizing the left 2 lanes) and merge onto US-95 N. Continue on US-95 N for 15.6 miles+- taking Exit #96 for Kyle Canyon Rd. (NV-157). At bottom of exit ramp turn left (Westerly) onto Kyle Canyon Rd. Continue Westerly on Kyle Canyon Rd. for 12.7 miles+- to it's intersection with Harris Springs Rd. (signs mark the turnoff) and WP1. Return by reversing route.