About
Keyhole Canyon is a spectacular slot canyon, eroded into granite, that is an important rock-art site. Abundant petroglyphs are found on the walls near the canyon mouth. They are unusual in that large geometric glyphs are common, while representational figures (e.g., bighorn sheep) are rare. They have been interpreted as representing the creation mythology of the local Native American groups.
Keyhole Canyon has also been a popular rock-climbing area for Las Vegas climbers for decades. It is the nearest outcrop of granite to the Las Vegas Valley that furnishes good climbing routes.
In more recent years canyoneering has become popular. The upper part of Keyhole Canyon, above the 100-foot dry waterfall that can be reached from the trailhead, can be accessed by a use path from the next canyon over. Keyhole Canyon can then be followed downstream, with several water-polished dry waterfalls that must be rappelled, of which the last and highest is the one immediately above the trailhead. It is considered a relatively easy canyoneering route.
Know Before You Go
Keyhole Canyon is reached on dirt roads. Some guides claim that with care passenger cars can negotiate the roads, but realistically high clearance is required.
If coming from the north, turn left (east) off US-95 on a graded dirt road (labeled Route S on Google Maps), at about 35.74399 N, 114.95530 W. Follow it 2.1 miles to the second (farther east) of two high-voltage powerline roads, at about 35.74330 N, 114.91901 W. Turn right (south) here and go 1.8 miles to a turnoff to Keyhole Canyon (at about 35.71874 N, 114.92971 W). Turn left and go 0.3 mile; Keyhole Canyon is visible ahead on the range front.
If coming from the south, turn right (east) off US-95 at about 35.69574 N, 114.96054 W onto a graded dirt road (labeled Route T on Google Maps). There is a gravel pit right at the turnoff. Go 1.2 miles to the second powerline road (farther east) and turn left. This turn, at about 35.69051 N, 114.94137 W, is more than 90 degrees. Go 2 miles, following the road as it winds around, to a turnoff at about 35.71524 N, 114.93142 W and turn right. Keyhole Canyon is visible ahead; go 0.3 miles to the trailhead.
Note that "easy" canyoneering is relative. It is a highly technical skill that should not be attempted unless you're experienced in rappelling, including the safe placement of rappel anchors.
Please don't disturb the rock art.
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Published
July 28, 2025
