Mountains, canyons offer cooler workouts

Monday, Aug. 7, 2000 | 9:31 a.m.

Hiking in the Mount Charleston and Red Rock Canyon areas can be a more comfortable alternative than exercise in the desert heat.

Free hikes and walks are available, with reservations, by calling the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area at 363-1922. Among the programs this week:

Robber's Roost: Short hike Friday in the ponderosa pine and mountain mahogany forest of Mount Charleston. The half-mile round trip is steep but moderately easy due to its short length. It is close to 8,000 feet in elevation and caution is advised for those with existing health problems. Picnic lunches welcome.

Hot Shots -- Keeping Cool Under Fire: Program Friday to teach kids what it takes to be a firefighter in the wilderness and what makes a fire. Be prepared to get wet.

Desert Ecology: Early morning exploration of White Rock Wash Saturday providing a cross-section route through a desert wash habitat. Hikers will be able to explore for fossils and watch for wildlife. Half the trail is somewhat uphill in uneven, loose gravel for a moderate-stress-level hike.

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