Best Things To Do In Great Basin National Park
Great Basin National Park
You just got lucky and scored a last-minute camping spot in Great Basin National Park! Now what? This beautiful park is full of things to do, but it can take time to know where to start.
Don’t worry; we’re here to help. This post will share some of our favorite activities in Great Basin National Park, from hiking and fishing to stargazing and exploring Lehman Caves. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
Hiking In Great Basin National Park
When you’re in Great Basin National Park, make sure to go for a hike. There are all sorts of trails to choose from, and you’re sure to find one that suits your fancy. [1]
The best part is that the trails are well-marked so you won’t get lost. Just bring plenty of water and snacks because you will need them! The elevation can make it a little tough to hike, but it’s worth it when you reach the top and get a view of the surrounding landscape.
Camping In Great Basin National Park
You will always have incredible things to do in Great Basin National Park. It is so hard to know where to begin! Is there anything more enjoyable than hiking through this park’s alpine lakes and sky-high peaks? Or exploring the caves that dot the landscape?
If that’s not your thing, no problem. You can also go fishing in one of the icy alpine lakes, take a horseback ride, or go camping, hiking, biking, or rock climbing. The possibilities are endless!
Rock Climbing In Great Basin National Park
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you must check out the rock climbing in Great Basin National Park. The area is known for its dramatic cliffs and towering peaks, which make for some pretty challenging climbs.
But don’t worry; the park staff is on hand to help you get started. They can provide the necessary gear and give you some pointers on the best routes. So if you’re feeling adventurous, then definitely give rock climbing a try. It’s sure to be an experience you’ll never forget.
Fishing In Great Basin National Park
When you go to Great Basin National Park, you’ll want tocast a line in the water and see what you can reel in. There are trout, bass, and catfish all waiting to be caught inside the park, making it one of the top places in the country to go fishing.
Thanks to the abundance of available locations, you can find a good spot to fish in the park easily. The streams and rivers are excellent places to fish for trout, whereas the lakes are perfect for fishing for bass and catfish. Be aware of the creeks; they are teeming with fish of a more manageable size that is ideal for children.
Great Basin National Park is home to some of the most productive fishing spots in the United States, so be sure to bring your fishing gear with you when you go.
Stargazing in Great Basin National Park
Look no further than its Stargazing program if you’re looking for a star-studded activity in Great Basin National Park. This park is one of the darkest places in the contiguous United States, which means the stars are out in full force. And on a clear night, you can see up to 7,000 stars!
The Stargazing program is offered every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening from June through September. Participants meet at the Lehman Caves Visitor Center at 9:00 p.m. and then spend the next few hours looking at the stars through telescopes. It’s an unforgettable experience and one that you’ll never forget. Great Basin National Park is also home to the annual Star Party, which is held every August. This event is a must-attend for stargazers, as it features some of the best telescopes and astronomers in the world. [2]
Snowshoeing In Great Basin National Park
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, snowshoeing in Great Basin National Park is a great option. You can explore the park’s beautiful mountain scenery and see all kinds of wildlife.
And don’t worry if you’re a beginner—plenty of trails are perfect for novices. The park staff can help you choose the right trail for your experience level and give tips on having a safe and enjoyable outing. So what are you waiting for? Grab your snowshoes and head to Great Basin National Park for an unforgettable winter experience.
Parking & Driving In Great Basin National Park
When driving in Great Basin National Park, remember to keep an eye out for wildlife. You never know what you’ll see. Elk, deer, and antelope are familiar, but you might also see bighorn sheep, coyotes, and even bears.
There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re driving in the park. First, the speed limit is only 25 mph, so take it easy and enjoy the scenery. And secondly, there’s a lot of wildlife on the roads, so please be alert and don’t speed. In terms of parking, there are a few options. You can park at the visitor center or one of the many trailheads. There is also a campground in the park if you’re planning on spending a few nights. So, enjoy all that Great Basin National Park has to offer, whether driving or hiking.
Parking can also be a challenge in the park, especially during the summer months. There are a few lots near the visitor center, but they tend to fill up quickly. If you’re looking for a spot, your best bet is to drive around the park and look for roadside parking. Just be sure to obey all posted signs.
Hotels near Great Basin National Park
When planning your trip to Great Basin National Park, booking your hotel early is essential. The closer you are to the park, the less hassle you’ll have getting there each day.
There are plenty of fantastic hotels near the park, but here are a few of our favorites:
- The Cowboy Inn is a classic old Western hotel in the heart of things.
- If you’re looking for something a little more modern, check out the SpringHill Suites by Marriott. It’s brand new and has all the amenities you could want.
- For something truly unique, stay at the Lehman Caves Hotel. It’s located inside the park, and you can explore the caves on your own or on a guided tour.
- And finally, if you’re looking for something extraordinary, why not stay at the White Pine Lodge? It’s right in the park and offers some of the best views. [3]
No matter your hotel, you will have a great time at Great Basin National Park.
A Scenic Drive Along Wheeler Peak
You’ll want to check out the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive. This road winds its way through some of the most stunning landscapes in the park, and it’s the perfect way to take in all the beauty Great Basin has to offer.
Make sure to stop at scenic overlooks along the way and take plenty of photos. There’s also a visitor center located at the summit of Wheeler Peak, so be sure to stop by for information about the park and its history.
Visit Bristlecone Pine Grove.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, why not visit Bristlecone Pine Grove? These ancient trees are some of the oldest living things on Earth. There are several different Bristlecone Pine Groves located within Great Basin National Park. The park ranger will be able to direct you to the best one for your visit. Once you’re there, you’ll be able to stroll among the massive trees and marvel at their size and age. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
There are several groves in the park, and each one is different. Some of them are more open, while others are more sheltered. No matter which one you choose, you’re in for a treat. Take your time walking around and admiring the different trees. You may even want to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the peaceful setting. Just be sure to clean up after yourself before you leave. [4]
The Bristlecone Pines are fantastic, and it’s worth seeing them up close. The experience of visiting Bristlecone Pine Grove is like no other. These groves are some of the oldest living things on Earth and are massive. If you have the chance to visit one, definitely take it. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
A Visit To Grey Cliffs And Baker Creek
If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to take a break, we recommend visiting Gray Cliffs. It’s one of the most stunning areas in the park, and it’s a great place to catch a glimpse of the river below. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching in this area. Keep your eyes peeled for marmots, pikas, and ground squirrels. You might also see mule deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike to Baker Creek. It’s a challenging hike, but the views at the end are well worth it. No matter what you decide to do, we know you’ll have a great time in Great Basin National Park.
Conclusion
The next time you’re in the mood for an outdoor adventure, make your way to Great Basin National Park. With plenty of things to see and do, you’re sure to have a good time.
Hiking and camping are two of the most popular activities in the park, and with good reason – the scenery is breathtaking. Plenty of lodging options are available if you’re not into roughing it.
No matter what you choose to do, make sure to take some time to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Great Basin National Park is beautiful to experience all that nature offers.