Great Basin National Park Travel Guide: Cave Tours & Scenic Drive
Updated: 5 days ago
Out in the high desert of eastern Nevada, Great Basin National Park is one of the least crowded parks in the West. Despite being one of the least-visited parks in the country, it boasts a unique combination of natural wonders. From glaciers and 13,000-foot peaks to ancient bristlecone pines and marble caves, the park covers a lot of ground in a small space. At night, the park is a stargazer's dream, with some of the darkest skies in the U.S. that reveal the Milky Way in all its glory. It's a place where solitude takes on a whole new meaning.
Sandwiched between Salt Lake City and Las Vegas are ancient bristlecone pines, marble caves, and some of the darkest skies in America await here.
How to Get to Great Basin
The closest airports are Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and McCarran International Airport (LAS), both approximately 4.5 hours away. Most visitors drive, pairing Great Basin with Utah's national parks or Nevada's "Loneliest Road in America" (U.S. Route 50). Baker, NV, the tiny town at the park's edge, has limited services.
Know Before You Go
Great Basin National Park is a place of natural beauty and tranquility, but it's essential to be prepared. There's no park entrance fee, and the high elevation (up to 13,063 feet on Wheeler Peak) means thinner air—so remember to hydrate and take it slow. Summer storms are common, and winter snow can close the scenic drive beyond the lower elevations. With limited lodging and dining options in the tiny town of Baker, NV, it's crucial to plan ahead for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Altitude Tip
The upper trails start near 10,000 feet, and Wheeler Peak tops out above 13,000. Take a day to adjust if you are coming from low country, carry more water than you think you need, and turn around on the summit ridge if afternoon storms start to build.
Best Time to Visit Great Basin
Late spring through fall is ideal for hiking and stargazing. Summer brings warm days and cool nights, while fall adds vibrant aspen colors. Winter is quiet, but access is limited to lower trails and activities, such as snowshoeing.
Best Things to Do in Great Basin
Lehman Caves: Stunning marble formations on ranger-led tours.
Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive: A 12-mile climb with views of valleys and peaks.
Stargazing & astronomy programs: Famous for crystal-clear skies.
Bristlecone Pine Grove: See some of the oldest trees on Earth, up to 5,000 years old.
Best Hikes in Great Basin
Bristlecone Trail (2.8 miles): Easy trek to ancient bristlecone groves.
Alpine Lakes Loop (2.7 miles): Serene lakes surrounded by peaks.
Wheeler Peak Summit (8.6 miles): Strenuous climb to Nevada's second-highest point.
Where to Stay
Campgrounds: Five are located inside the park and open seasonally.
Baker, NV: Small motels and bed-and-breakfasts.
Ely, NV: A Larger town 70 miles west with hotels and restaurants.
Where to Eat
Lectrolux Café (Baker): Cozy breakfast and coffee stop.
Kerouac's (Baker): Unexpectedly hip dining with locally sourced dishes.
Pack It In: Stock up in Ely or Delta, UT, before arriving.
Sources
NPS & Government
Great Basin National Park, National Park Service
Lehman Caves Tours - Great Basin National Park (U.S. National Park Service) · Plan your visit
Bristlecone Pines - Great Basin National Park (U.S. National Park Service) · Plan your visit
Hike the Alpine Lakes Loop (U.S. National Park Service) · Trail
Explore more of Great Basin National Park: Great Basin National Park: Nevada's Dark Sky Mountains
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