The best place for a drink on the rocks in Vegas

Las Vegas is a strangely versatile town. If I drive ten minutes west, I can be on the heart of the Strip, drink in hand. If I drive ten minutes east, I can be in the middle of nowhere, chugging Evian while standing atop gorgeous red rocks in the desert. I often head out to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area with my friend Amy to take in the amazing views and to find a sense of calm. It really is like flipping a switch–one moment you’re caught up in the craziness of bright lights big city, and the next you are in one of the quietest places on Earth. Whenever I am feeling overwhelmed, I head out to Red Rock or the nearby Calico Basin to clear my mind.

Vegas really is a bit of a paradox; so much of the Strip is so incredibly fake, and then just a few miles away is endless natural beauty.

Last week, Amy and I trekked out to Calico Basin. It felt great to get out in the fresh air, away from my laptop and my phone. Even though I try not to be, I really am a slave to technology. Every now and then, it’s healthy to make a complete break from modern convenience and sweat it out on a trail.