Great Basin National Park

Current alerts

• CautionStage II Fire Restrictions in effect - campfires banned

  Stage II Fire Restrictions are in effect at Great Basin National Park. Due to extreme fire danger, campfires, charcoal grills, and outdoor smoking are prohibited throughout the park. Gas and liquid-fueled stoves are permitted.

• CautionNo Potable Water in Park Campgrounds

  There currently is no water available in any campground in Great Basin National Park.  Water is available at the RV Fill and Dump Station, the Great Basin, and the Lehman Caves Visitor Center as well as some local businesses.  

Location

38.9462, -114.2580

Key trails & viewpoints

• Hike the Baker Creek Loop

  An upper easy/low moderate hike, Baker Creek is often accessible or semi-accessible year round, making a viable alternative when roads close or parking lots are crowded. 3.3 miles makes for acceptable easy distance for most visitors, though challenging in the winter when deep snow is present.

• Hike to the Wheeler Peak Bristlecone Grove

  The Bristlecone Trail is not to be missed on a visit to the park. This 2.8-mile round-trip hike takes visitors through some of the oldest organisms on Earth, and offers opportunities for introspection as you consider your place in the universe.

• Hike to Lexington Arch

  Hike 5.6 miles through shrubland to see one of the largest limestone arches in the world. Find plenty of peace on this lesser traveled trail. Lexington Arch is also the only park trail that allows dogs, so bring your pet for an excursion to this remote corner of the park.

• Hike the Upper Strawberry Trail

  The meadows of the Sage Steppe Loop combined with moderate difficulty ascending to a mountain saddle, the Upper Strawberry trail's 4.0 miles provides ample fall colors and plenty of running water.

• Hike the Sage Steppe Loop

  Wildlife, wildflowers, escapes from the heat, and an easy trail to boot. The Sage Steppe Loop is both a wonderful introduction to the park and a great chance to get away from the crowds.

• Hike the Serviceberry Trail

  1.5 - 2.5 hours is typical for this hike. Expect to be on the upper end of that time if you/your group is not well adjusted to elevation.

  The 3.2 mile Serviceberry Loop is a wonderful loop trail through serviceberry, rabbitbrush, and sagebrush, giving plentiful views of unique Great Basin geology. This moderate trail is a great introduction to the Snake Creek area and its unique offerings.

• Hike the Big Wash Trail

  Big Wash is perhaps the most difficult and least travelled trail in the park. be prepared for a long 20.6 mile journey through shrubland and heat in the summer, but one of the most incredible experiences available with the isolation it brings.

• Hike to Johnson Lake from Snake Creek

  Hike to the backcountry and isolated Johnson Lake. 8.0 miles round trip rewards visitors with a chance for isolation and exercise. This version of the route approaches from the Snake Creek Trailhead, but Johnson Lake is also accessible from the north via Baker Creek Trailhead.

Hours & fees

No entrance fee is charged at this park.

Activities

• Auto and ATV
• Scenic Driving
• Astronomy
• Stargazing
• Biking
• Road Biking
• Camping
• Backcountry Camping
• Car or Front Country Camping
• Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
• Group Camping
• RV Camping
• Caving
• Fishing
• Food
• Dining
• Picnicking
• Guided Tours
• Hiking
• Backcountry Hiking
• Horse Trekking
• Horse Camping (see also camping)
• Horseback Riding
• Hunting and Gathering
• Gathering and Foraging
• Junior Ranger Program
• Skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Wildlife Watching
• Birdwatching
• Park Film
• Museum Exhibits
• Shopping
• Bookstore and Park Store
• Gift Shop and Souvenirs