Nightmare Gulch is a highly scenic and challenging canyon in Red Rock Canyon State Park. This area attracts many nesting raptor birds during early spring, therefore, the area is CLOSED to all entry from February 1st to July 1st. Otherwise, the road is open to hiking and equestrian use only on the 1st – 15th of each month, and then open to vehicular traffic the last half of each month. Short wheel- base vehicles with high clearance are recommended; full- size vehicles are not recommended, and drivers can expect damage due to tight or even impassible sections.

Please Note: As of this article’s writing, Nightmare Gulch is temporarily CLOSED to motorized vehicles. Visit parks.ca.gov for current status updates.