Great Basin National Park
National Park · Nevada

Great Basin National Park

Photo: Famartin · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Great Basin rises from sagebrush desert to the 13,063-foot summit of Wheeler Peak in eastern Nevada. Highlights include the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, the Bristlecone Pine Grove with trees over 4,000 years old, Lehman Caves and superb stargazing. It is remote, so bring food and fuel, and note that the park is cashless.

Good to know

Tickets
There is no entry fee. Lehman Caves tours cost extra and are booked on Recreation.gov.
Time needed
1 to 2 days for a cave tour, the scenic drive and the bristlecone walk.
Best time
Late June to September, when the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is usually clear of snow.
Getting there
Baker is at the park entrance. Salt Lake City airport is about 4 hours away by car; Las Vegas is about 5 hours.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Baker, Nevada
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Great Basin National Park questions

Do I need to book Lehman Caves tours?

Yes. Tours are sold on Recreation.gov up to 30 days ahead and sell out in summer. Tour options have changed during 2026 repair work, so check nps.gov before you go.

What is the best hike in Great Basin?

The Bristlecone and Glacier trail to ancient pines and Nevada's only glacier is the favorite. Fit hikers can summit Wheeler Peak.

Where should I stay near Great Basin?

The park has several campgrounds. The tiny town of Baker has a few motels and cabins, and Ely is about 1 hour away.

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