While the tops of the peaks are visible from the Las Vegas Valley, most of Red Rock Canyon is nestled below them and out of sight from the city of Las Vegas. The red sandstone that makes Red Rock that is so distinctive, is part of the same geologic formation, the Navaho Formation, found in the Valley of Fire, Zion National Park and throughout parts of the southwestern United States and southern Nevada. The contrast of red sandstone layered through gray limestone is impressive against the tall sheer cliff faces of - as high as -  600 meters or about 1,800 feet.

The layout of the valley that Red Rock is in, its mountains, cliffs and hills is typical of the Great Basin north-south orientation found throughout Nevada.

The mountains that make up the western edge of Red Rock are named the Wilson Cliffs. The Wilson Cliffs are formed by several mountains, Bridge Point, Bridge Mountain, Rainbow Mountain, Mount Wilson, Indecision Peak and Sandstone Mountain.

On the north part of this small valley is the BLM Scenic Drive and Visitor Center. To most visitors this is the area thought of as Red Rock Canyon Las Vegas.

The eastern boundary of this valley consists of a series of low hills collectively known as Blue Diamond Hill. Between these mountains and hills is the valley that State Highway 159 runs through. From Highway 159, you can drive though the whole valley that Red Rock occupies.

Near the southern part of the valley is Blue Diamond a mining community. This small hamlet is a great place to live because it is close to Las Vegas but is also in Red Rock.

There are a lot of things to do in Red Rock Canyon. If you like to hike, take spectacular pictures or if you want to learn more about the desert, plan to spend some time here. Red Rock Canyon has a lot to offer. Horseback riding at Bonnie Springs Ranch, picnicking at places like Willow Springs and rock climbing are very popular. In the summer months, there is 'Super Summer Theatre' at the Spring Mountain Ranch. These productions are put on in the 'Theatre in the Meadow', an outdoor theatre. Cool nights, beautiful setting, great art this is something that you should try to take in.