This video gives you a panoramic view of Red Rock Canyon, in Las Vegas, as seen from the rear of the visitor's center.

You will quickly see why the area is referred to as Red Rock when you see the red mountains.

At this time of year one can sit out back and relax, while gazing in wonderment, through one of the several spotting scopes mounted on stands, at one of nature's most interesting rock formations, but that changes when the warm weather sets in.

In about two months this area will be buzzing with activity. The flowers will have emerged, and "Mojave Max", the old master tortoise, will be plying his kingdom in the tortoise Habitat located just beyond the area where I'm standing. Another habitat with several female tortoises will be also be watched by throngs of people as the preserve's volunteers feed and tend to these delicate creatures.

There will be instructional classes and short hikes into the desert conducted by the volunteers, and, at times, you might see some wild burros poking around within a few hundred feet of the center.

In year's past the preserve has hosted "Spring Flings" which are festivals attended by local artisans, Native American dancers and musicians, and many other people associated with desert activities, and various arts and crafts.

Hopefully there is one planned for this year but so far I haven't received word of it.