Hwy 488, Baker, NV 89311
Phone: 775-234-7331
Fax: 775-234-7269
Open All Year
Overview. The Great Basin is actually a misnomer for this group of desert basins, or valleys, in Nevada's South Snake mountains. Basins are a vital part of the desert ecosystem, collecting excess water from streams and rivers that don't have outlets in the ocean. The national park was established in 1986 to preserve this natural drainage system. The South Snake Range is characterized by craggy mountains and dry sagebrush valleys that alternate in a continuous, almost monotonous pattern. Pinyon juniper woodlands, aspen, mahogany, manzanita, as well as an abundance of wildlife thrive in the cooler, wetter conditions found at higher elevations. Looking at the arid desert range today, it's hard to imagine that the area was once partially covered by glaciers, although the ice never reached below elevations of 8,000 feet. Remnants of their presence still exist, such as a small glacier in the cirque on the north side of Wheeler Peak and glacier-carved Teresa and Stellar lakes. The other natural wonder that draws people to this park is not above ground, but below. The Lehman Caves (also a misnomer, since there is only one) extend a quarter mile into the limestone at the base of the Snake Range. This small underground cavern is decorated with a colorful array of stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and columns. Lehman is famous for rare formations called "shields," which are made up of two circular halves that resemble clam shells. The origin continues to be a mystery among geologists. What to see and do. A visit to the Lehman Caves is an ideal activity for a one-day excursion. Ranger-led tours begin at the visitor center near the cave entrance, and take you through several intricately carved rooms. The two most impressive rooms are Cypress Swamp, with its rimstone pools and "soda straws," and Grand Palace, which features several shields and columns. The tour is up to 0.54 miles or shorter and lasts up to one and one-half hours with some tours 30 to 60 minutes. Be sure to dress appropriately; the temperature inside the cave is 50 degrees year-round. If you have more than one day to explore the park, take some time to see Lexington Arch, in the south end of the park, or explore the glacier at Wheeler Peak. Several trailheads converge at the base of Wheeler Peak and lead to pine forests and alpine lakes. Opportunities for horseback riding, fishing, and mountain biking are also offered, but stop by a ranger station for information on licenses and limitations. Rangers also lead evening campfire programs and nature hikes. There are four developed campgrounds within the park, which provide everything from water to tent pads. Along Strawberry Creek at the north end of the park and Snake Creek on the east side of the park, primitive campsites offer tent sites but no water.
| Activities and Services |
 |
| • |
Archeological Sites |
|
| • |
Bird Watching |
|
| • |
Caving |
|
| • |
Cross-country Skiing |
|
| • |
Fishing |
|
| • |
Food Service |
|
| • |
Geological Sites |
|
| • |
Gift Shop |
|
| • |
Guided Tours |
|
| • |
Hiking/Nature Trails |
|
| • |
Historic Sites |
|
| • |
Horse Trails |
|
| • |
Museum/Exhibits |
|
| • |
Picnic Sites |
|
| • |
Programs/Talks |
|
| • |
Self-guided Tours |
|
| • |
Visitor Center |
|
| • |
Wildflower Viewing |
|
| • |
Wildlife Viewing |
|
Search All National Parks
Please call ahead to confirm details. We do our best to give you current information, but facts can change. Please let us know if you find something's changed.
|
