Moderate, 0.4 miles.

Robbers Roost is a moderately trafficked 0.2 mile (0.4-mile round trip) out and back trail located in the Deer Creek Highway area of the SMNRA. There is parking across the street from the trailhead, but it does not have restrooms and is not stroller/wheelchair friendly.

To start on the trail, head west across the street via the crosswalk. From here the trail continues westbound through thick pinyon pine and curl-leaf mountain mahogany on a rocky path. 100 feet into the trail there appears to be a route to the right which is an old CCC road. Rather than head right, continue along the trail heading south/left. From this point the path begins a steep southwestward ascent. 0.1 miles into the trail hikers will approach limestone stairs, continue following these stairs for the remainder of the southwestward climb. 0.17 miles into the trail, hikers must complete a moderate scramble atop limestone rocks. A few hundred feet past this point the trail arrives at the Robbers Roost caves, where world-class rock climbing is available. To return, retrace your steps 0.2 miles back down to the trailhead.  

Safety tips: 
Hiking at higher elevations can be difficult if not acclimated. Know the symptoms of altitude sickness and how to properly prepare. Always check the weather before heading out on the trails. Be prepared to be out of cell-phone range and have a backup plan. Ensure proper clothing and supplies for the trek, be it a day-hike or backpacking trip.  

Leave No Trace:
GO Mt Charleston encourages folks to enjoy their public lands, while remaining mindful and following the 7 principles of LNT:

  1. Plan Ahead and Prepare – Check the weather, pack proper equipment and guides, wear adequate clothing, have a back-up plan, research current conditions, closures, and regulations. 
  2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces – Follow the designated trail and avoid cutting switchbacks. Backcountry camp on low-impact terrain. When in doubt stick to designated campgrounds and dispersed campsites.
  3. Dispose of Waste Properly – Pack it in pack it out! Pack out all garbage, including organic food waste such as citrus peels and pistachio shells. When backpacking, practice digging cat holes to dispose of human waste and carry wastewater 200 feet away from waterways. 
  4. Leave What You Find – Take only pictures, leave only footprints! Leave cultural artifacts and natural objects for others to enjoy.
  5. Minimize Campfire Impacts – Make sure your campfire is dead out before leaving or sleeping, research local regulations about collecting firewood, and know current fire restrictions. When in doubt use designated fire rings. 
  6. Respect Wildlife – Observe from a safe distance, never feed or approach wildlife, report impaired wildlife to Rangers and never attempt to move or help yourself. 
  7. Respect other Visitors – Be courteous on the trails, control and pick up after your pets, consider whether your experience is affecting the way someone else enjoys the peaceful outdoors.

 Learn more by visiting: https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/ 

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