Best Things to Do in Great Basin National Park
Tucked away in eastern Nevada near the Utah border, Great Basin National Park is one of America’s most underrated treasures. With its mix of ancient bristlecone pine forests, snow-capped peaks, marble caves, and some of the darkest skies in the country, this park offers an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking both beauty and solitude. Here are the best things to do in Great Basin National Park.
1. Explore Lehman Caves
Beneath the surface of the Snake Range lies Lehman Caves, a marble cave system filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and rare cave formations like shields. Guided tours take you through narrow passageways and large chambers, showcasing the otherworldly beauty underground. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
2. Hike to the Ancient Bristlecone Pines
Some of the oldest living trees on Earth, the Great Basin bristlecone pines, thrive high in the park’s mountains. These gnarled, twisted trees can live for more than 4,000 years. The Bristlecone Pine Trail, located near Wheeler Peak, gives visitors a chance to walk among these ancient survivors and learn about their resilience in harsh alpine conditions.
3. Summit Wheeler Peak
At 13,063 feet, Wheeler Peak is the second-highest peak in Nevada and offers breathtaking views of the Great Basin. The challenging Wheeler Peak Summit Trail is best for experienced hikers, covering about 8.6 miles round trip. Along the way, you’ll pass alpine lakes, forests, and rocky slopes before reaching the summit, where you can see across multiple states on a clear day.
4. Stargaze Under Some of the Darkest Skies in the U.S.
Great Basin is an International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in America for stargazing. With little light pollution, visitors can see the Milky Way stretch across the sky, spot countless constellations, and even glimpse distant galaxies. The park also hosts annual astronomy events, like the Great Basin Astronomy Festival each September.
5. Visit the Alpine Lakes
Nestled below Wheeler Peak, Stella Lake and Teresa Lake are two serene alpine lakes surrounded by rugged mountain scenery. Both are accessible via short hikes, making them perfect for a peaceful picnic, photography, or just soaking in the mountain air.
6. Drive the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive
This 12-mile scenic road climbs from the desert floor up to 10,000 feet in elevation, showcasing dramatic changes in ecosystems. Along the way, you’ll pass through sagebrush flats, thick forests, and high alpine landscapes. Numerous pullouts allow you to stop for photos or short walks.
7. Discover Lexington Arch
One of the park’s hidden gems, Lexington Arch is a massive six-story limestone arch tucked away in the southern section of the park. Reaching it requires a moderately strenuous hike, but the reward is an awe-inspiring natural stone structure that feels far off the beaten path.
8. Camp in the Wilderness
Great Basin offers several campgrounds, from developed sites with amenities to more primitive backcountry spots. Whether you camp near Baker Creek or up at Wheeler Peak Campground, you’ll find yourself surrounded by peace, silence, and star-filled skies.
9. Spot Wildlife
Despite its remote desert setting, Great Basin is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for mule deer, mountain lions, marmots, and over 200 bird species. In the alpine regions, you might even see bighorn sheep navigating the rocky slopes.
10. Enjoy the Solitude
Unlike many national parks, Great Basin sees relatively few visitors, which means you can often enjoy trails, viewpoints, and campgrounds without the crowds. The solitude is part of what makes the park so special—an authentic wilderness experience where you can truly connect with nature.
Final Thoughts
Great Basin National Park is a rare combination of caves, mountains, forests, and desert, all wrapped into one incredible destination. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a stargazer, or just someone looking for tranquility away from the crowds, this hidden gem deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
