NOS Mission

Nevada Outdoor School inspires exploration of the natural world, responsible stewardship of our habitat and dedication to community.
This is the spot for us to share stories, fun ideas or general musings. When you aren't in here, we hope to see you out there!







Friday, July 4, 2025

Exploring Great Basin National Park: Nevada’s Hidden Treasure


Tucked away in eastern Nevada near the Utah border, Great Basin National Park is a breathtaking example of the state's diverse natural beauty. With towering peaks, ancient trees, fascinating wildlife, and a rich cultural history, this national park is one of Nevada’s best-kept secrets and an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers alike.

A Glimpse into the Past

The area that is now Great Basin National Park has a long and layered history. For thousands of years, it was home to the Western Shoshone people, who lived in harmony with the land, using its resources to sustain their way of life. Artifacts and archaeological sites across the region speak to this deep connection.

European settlers arrived in the 1800s, drawn by mining prospects and homesteading opportunities. The park’s centerpiece, Wheeler Peak, was named after George Wheeler, a leader of an expedition to map the western United States. Over time, the area became recognized for its scientific, cultural, and recreational value. Great Basin National Park was officially established in 1986, protecting over 77,000 acres of high desert, alpine terrain, and underground wonders.

A Tapestry of Life: Plants and Animals

Despite its location in the arid Great Basin, the park is a biodiversity hotspot due to its wide range of elevations, from around 5,000 feet in the desert valleys to over 13,000 feet at Wheeler Peak.

One of the park’s most iconic residents is the Bristlecone pine, among the oldest living trees on Earth. Some of these gnarled, resilient trees are over 4,000 years old and can be found in high-elevation groves near Wheeler Peak.

Wildlife in the park includes mule deer, mountain lions, marmots, and bighorn sheep, along with countless smaller mammals, reptiles, and over 200 species of birds. In the spring and summer, the meadows and slopes come alive with wildflowers like lupine, Indian paintbrush, and columbine, offering a colorful contrast to the rugged landscape.

Adventures Await: Things to Do


Great Basin National Park offers something for every type of explorer:
  • Hiking: Trails range from short, accessible walks to challenging alpine treks. Popular hikes include the Bristlecone Pine Trail, Alpine Lakes Loop, and the climb to the summit of Wheeler Peak, the second-highest peak in Nevada.
  • Lehman Caves: One of the park’s most unique features, Lehman Caves is a marble cave system filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and rare shield formations. Ranger-led tours take visitors deep underground to explore this hidden world.
  • Stargazing: Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, Great Basin offers some of the clearest night skies in the continental U.S. With minimal light pollution, it’s a perfect place to view the Milky Way, planets, and meteor showers.
  • Camping and Picnicking: Campgrounds like Wheeler Peak and Lower Lehman Creek provide peaceful sites nestled in pine forests and close to trailheads. Picnicking areas are available for families looking for a scenic lunch spot.
  • Fishing: Alpine lakes and creeks are home to trout, and fishing is allowed in several areas with the proper license.
  • Snow Activities: In winter, snowshoers and backcountry skiers find adventure in the quiet, snow-covered wilderness.
Plan Your Visit

Great Basin National Park is open year-round and has no entrance fee, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy the beauty of Nevada’s outdoors. The park’s visitor center in Baker, NV, provides maps, exhibits, and helpful ranger information to make the most of your trip.

Whether you're seeking solitude under ancient trees, awe-inspiring views from a mountain peak, or the thrill of exploring a cave, Great Basin National Park is a remarkable place to connect with nature and experience the wild heart of Nevada.