Great Basin National Park

Great Basin National Park Travel Guide

Great Basin National Park, located in eastern Nevada, is a gem of the U.S. National Park System, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Great Basin region.

Great Basin National Park covers approximately 77,000 acres and features the South Snake Range, Lehman Caves, and the ancient bristlecone pines. It offers a unique mix of desert basins and majestic mountain terrain.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Great Basin National Park largely depends on what activities and experiences you're seeking. Here's a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year:

Late Spring to Early Fall (Late May to September):

• This is the most popular time to visit due to warmer temperatures and accessibility.

• Most of the park's facilities and campgrounds are fully operational.

• Higher elevation areas, like Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive and the Bristlecone Pine trails, are free from snow and open to visitors.

• The Lehman Caves can be toured year-round, but this period sees more frequent tours.

• Note: July and August might bring afternoon thunderstorms, so it's wise to check the weather and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

Late Fall to Early Spring (October to Early May):

• Visiting during this period means fewer crowds and a serene, snowy landscape. However, it's essential to be prepared for snow and colder temperatures.

• Many higher elevation areas, including roads and trails, might be inaccessible due to snow.

• Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities during these months.

• Campgrounds at lower elevations may remain open, but services are limited.

• Winter road conditions can be challenging, so always check the road status and have the appropriate vehicle or chains.

Stargazing:

• While stargazing can be fantastic throughout the year due to the park's designation as an International Dark Sky Park, late summer and fall are especially noteworthy because of the clearer skies and longer nights.

Getting to Great Basin National Park

Getting to Great Basin National Park requires some planning, as it's relatively remote compared to many U.S. national parks. Here's a guide to help you navigate your way to this hidden gem:

• By Car:

  • The primary access point to the park is via Highway 488, which turns off from Highway 50 in Baker, Nevada.

  • From Salt Lake City, Utah: The drive is approximately 4 hours. Take Interstate 15 south to the Highway 50 exit in Ely, Nevada, then drive east to Baker.

  • From Las Vegas, Nevada: The drive is approximately 4.5 hours. Take Interstate 15 north to US-93 north in Ely, then Highway 50 east to Baker.

  • From Reno, Nevada: The drive is approximately 6 hours. Take Highway 50 (known as the "Loneliest Road in America") all the way east to Baker.

  • Note: Always ensure your vehicle is in good condition, as services are limited in this remote area. Check road conditions, especially during winter months, and ensure you have a full gas tank before heading into remote stretches.

• By Air:

  • The closest major airports are in Salt Lake City, Utah and Las Vegas, Nevada. Both airports offer car rental services. From there, you can drive to the park using the routes mentioned above.

  • Ely, Nevada, has a small airport, Yelland Field (ELY), which is about an hour away from the park. Flights might be limited, so check with carriers for schedules and availability.

• Safety Tip:

  • Cell phone service can be spotty or nonexistent in parts of the park and surrounding areas. It's a good idea to download maps, have a physical map on hand, and inform someone of your travel plans.

Top Attractions

Great Basin National Park is home to a diverse range of natural wonders. Here are the top attractions in the park:

1. Wheeler Peak: Standing at 13,063 feet, this is the second highest peak in Nevada. The scenic drive leading up to it offers panoramic views, and there are hiking trails for those wishing to venture further.

2. Lehman Caves: A beautiful marble and limestone cave known for its unique formations like stalactites, stalagmites, helictites, and over 300 rare shield formations. Guided tours are available and highly recommended.

3. Bristlecone Pine Groves: These ancient trees, some over 5,000 years old, are among the oldest living organisms on Earth. The park has several groves, with the most accessible being along the Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail.

4. Wheeler Peak Glacier: Yes, there's a glacier in Nevada! Located near Wheeler Peak, it's one of the southernmost glaciers in the Northern Hemisphere.

5. Stella Lake and Teresa Lake: Both of these alpine lakes are accessible via hiking and provide serene settings against the backdrop of Wheeler Peak.

6. Baker Archaeological Site: This site showcases remnants of the Fremont culture, with artifacts dating back almost 1,400 years.

7. Astronomy Programs: Given its designation as an International Dark Sky Park, the park frequently hosts astronomy programs and events, offering visitors a chance to marvel at the night sky through telescopes and learn from experts.

8. Mather Overlook: Accessible via Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, this overlook offers sweeping views of the Snake Valley below.

9. Alpine Lakes Loop Trail: A relatively short trail (about 2.7 miles) that provides views of Stella and Teresa Lakes, along with majestic mountain vistas.

10. Lexington Arch: A large limestone arch that's somewhat off the beaten path but is a unique geological feature worth visiting.

Activities

Great Basin National Park offers a range of activities to immerse visitors in its unique landscape and ecosystems. Here are the top activities to do while visiting:

1. Hiking: With over 60 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs, there's a trail for every skill level. Popular trails include the Alpine Lakes Loop, Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail, and Wheeler Peak Summit Trail.

2. Cave Touring: Join a ranger-led tour of the Lehman Caves, exploring its fascinating formations and learning about its geology and history.

3. Stargazing: Thanks to its remote location and elevation, the park offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. As an International Dark Sky Park, it frequently hosts astronomy programs and star parties.

4. Camping: Experience the park's beauty firsthand by camping in one of its several campgrounds. Lower elevation campgrounds like Baker Creek and Grey Cliffs are accessible most of the year, while higher elevation sites like Wheeler Peak Campground are seasonal.

5. Photography: The diverse landscapes, from ancient bristlecone pines and limestone caves to alpine lakes and towering peaks, provide ample opportunities for photography.

6. Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for the park's diverse wildlife, which includes mule deer, jackrabbits, mountain lions, and a variety of birds.

7. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular activities, especially around the Mountain View Nature Trail and Lehman Creek Trail.

8. Picnicking: There are several picnic areas within the park, providing a relaxing way to enjoy the scenic beauty and have a meal amidst nature.

9. Scenic Drives: The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive offers breathtaking views as you ascend the South Snake Range, culminating at the Mather Overlook.

10. Ranger Programs: Join park rangers for various educational programs and events throughout the year, from cave tours and astronomy sessions to talks about the park's history and ecosystems.

Visitor Facilities

• Great Basin Visitor Center: Located in Baker, NV, it offers park information, exhibits, and a bookstore.

• Lehman Caves Visitor Center: Apart from cave tour tickets, it provides exhibits on the cave's geology and history.

Where to Stay

When visiting Great Basin National Park, you have a few options for accommodations, both within the park and in nearby areas:

Within the Park - Campgrounds:

• Lower Lehman Creek Campground:

  • Situated at an elevation of around 7,300 feet, this campground is open year-round and offers a creekside camping experience. Its proximity to the park entrance and Lehman Caves Visitor Center makes it a popular choice. The campground provides a peaceful ambiance with the soothing sound of the nearby creek.

• Upper Lehman Creek Campground:

  • Positioned slightly higher in elevation than its lower counterpart, at about 7,800 feet, this campground is typically open from spring to fall. Surrounded by evergreen trees, it offers a cooler, shaded environment and is just a short drive from the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive.

• Wheeler Peak Campground:

  • Nestled at a lofty elevation of approximately 9,800 feet, Wheeler Peak Campground is the highest in the park. It's a seasonal campground, open typically from summer to early fall. Its elevated location offers campers proximity to the Bristlecone Pine groves, alpine lakes, and Wheeler Peak trails.

• Baker Creek Campground:

  • Located centrally in the park, Baker Creek Campground provides easy access to several hiking trails, including the Baker Lake Trail. With an elevation of around 7,500 feet, it's surrounded by a mix of pine and deciduous trees, offering a pleasant mix of sun and shade.

• Grey Cliffs Campground:

  • Sitting at approximately 7,000 feet, this campground provides a bit more seclusion than some of the others. It boasts picturesque views of the surrounding grey cliffs and is typically open from spring to fall. The sites are spacious, and there's a group site available for larger gatherings.

• Snake Creek Campground:

  • Positioned on the park's eastern side, Snake Creek Campground offers a quieter, less-frequented camping experience at around 5,800 feet in elevation. It's close to the Snake Creek Canyon trail and offers a mix of sun and shade with its combination of trees and open sites.

All campgrounds within the park operate on a first-come, first-served basis, except for group campsites, which can be reserved. Always check with the park's official site for current conditions and availability, Great Basin National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) .

Outside the Park:

1. Baker, Nevada: The closest town to the park's entrance. While it's a small town, it does offer some lodging options, including motels, inns, and bed & breakfast establishments. There are also basic services and dining options.

2. Ely, Nevada: About an hour's drive from the park, Ely is a larger town with more accommodation options, from chain motels to locally-run hotels and inns. It also has restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, and other amenities.

When planning your visit, consider the kind of experience you're seeking, whether it's camping under the stars, staying in a rustic inn, or having the comforts of a motel or hotel. Always book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as options, particularly in Baker, can fill up quickly.

Tips for Travelers

1. Variable Weather: Due to the wide range of elevations, weather can vary dramatically. It can be warm at the base and quite chilly at higher elevations, even during summer. Always check the weather forecast and be prepared with layers.

2. High Altitude: If you're not accustomed to higher altitudes, give yourself time to acclimate to avoid altitude sickness.

3. Safety: Always carry sufficient water, especially when hiking in lower elevations, and inform someone about your hiking plans.

4. Stay on Designated Paths: To protect the fragile ecosystem, especially the ancient bristlecone pines, always stay on designated trails.

5. Book Ahead: If you're planning to camp or take a Lehman Caves tour, it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

6. Before planning your visit to Great Basin National Park, always check the official website for current conditions, campground availability, and any park alerts to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Great Basin National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an avid hiker, or just looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Great Basin National Park offers a serene and enriching experience.