Established in 1986, Great Basin National Park is one of our nation's newest national parks. The surrounding area was called the Great Basin by explorer John Fremont in the mid-1800s because the rivers flow inland creating a basin or valley. Although the park adopted the name, it looks nothing like a basin!

The 13,063 foot-high Wheeler Peak, named after surveyor Lt. George Wheeler, is the highest peak between the Sierra Nevadas and the Rocky Mountains. A scenic 12 mile drive leads to its 10,000 foot elevation. From there, you can hike past a rare ancient bristlecone pine forest to the summit where you'll see sweeping views of the area.

In 1885, rancher Ab Lehman discovered the entrance to one of the largest limestone solution caverns in the western United States. Today, a guided tour will lead you and your imagination through various rooms, past stalagmites and stalactites, and the huge fluted columns of Lehman Cave. Temperatures are chilly, so bring warm clothing.

The park is open year round but the scenic drive to Wheeler Peak is closed from November to May. There are 65 miles of trails, four campgrounds with water, and rest rooms. The visitor center is open daily* from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Backcountry hiking and camping are permitted. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing are popular in the winter.

Great Basin National Park
Baker, Nevada 89311
Phone: 702-234-7331

* Visitor Center is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day.