Outdoor activities around Southern Nevada

Red Rock Canyon: On Monday, join a moderate, 4½-mile hike to Potato Knoll to investigate its geological origins and those of the Shinarump Conglomerate, which was deposited in the Triassic period. This hike is for ages 10 and older. On Dec. 18, view the documentary "The Day the Earth Almost Died," about the great Permian mass extinction, then go for a moderate, 2½-mile hike up to the Permian-Triassic contact on Fossil Ridge. This hike for ages 10 and older will also feature great scenic views of Red Rock Canyon.

For more information or to sign up for hikes, call (702) 515-5367.

Around the Bend Friends: This group of people 50 and older who are involved in hiking and related social activities plans several hikes each week of various difficulty levels, including an easy-to-moderate social hike on Saturdays. To learn more about the group and the hikes that are offered call (702) 823-2355 or visit the club's website, www.aroundthebendfriends.com.

OTHER PROGRAMS

Red Rock Canyon: On Monday, learn about the animals of Red Rock in a tabletop presentation from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the visitor center. On Tuesday, create a masterpiece in an art class for ages 15 and older. Also on Tuesday, view the types of venomous animals that live in the canyon; from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the visitor center. On Wednesday, participate in a jewelry-making workshop for ages 10 and older. On Saturday, children ages 2 to 7 can learn about animals that use trees for shelter through stories, activities, music and a craft. Also on Saturday, take part in an art class that focuses on earth tones; for ages 4 and older. On Dec. 18, children ages 3 to 10 can discover how different animals and plants have adapted to survive in the desert.

For more information, call (702) 515-5367.

Archaeo-Nevada Society, along with the Bureau of Land Management, seeks volunteers to help with Red Rock Canyon conservation projects. Visit www.archaeonevada.org.