Backcountry Use
Great Basin National Park offers extensive areas for backpacking trips. Though
there are a number of established routes, much of the park, especially the fragile
alpine areas, remains wild country without trails. Backpackers should be prepared
to hike cross-country on hard-to-follow routes, or to follow drainages, ridges and
other natural features. Skills in map reading are essential to any off-trail travel in the park. Though permits are currently not required for backcountry camping, we encourage you to come to the visitor center before departing to fill out a voluntary backcountry registration form and to obtain the latest information on backcountry conditions.

Weather
Elevations in the park range from 6,200 to 13,063 feet. Due to the extreme elevation range, backpackers should be prepared for highly variable weather conditions. At the elevation of the visitor center (6825 feet), the weather can be quite warm and pleasant by April. However, the higher elevations areas, including some of the most scenic and inspiring areas for backpacking, are usually snowbound until late June. At elevations of 10,000 feet and higher, snow and/or electrical storms can be life-threatening, and can occur any month of the year. Be prepared for possible extreme conditions. When hiking at the highest elevations in the park, carry clothing and gear for a wide range of temperatures and conditions.

Water
Water supplies in the backcountry are highly variable from year to year and season to season. No water source in the backcountry should be used without boiling or filtering. Ask at the visitor center about water sources and availability when you arrive. Generally, late spring is the time of most abundant water. By late summer, streams and springs can be dry, or nearly so. It is advisable to carry ample water on any backcountry trip, and drink it! Keeping hydrated prevents many ailments encountered while hiking.

Hazards
Be aware of other hazards that exist when hiking, in the backcountry or on day-hikes. Hypothermia, dehydration, altitude sickness and sun exposure are serious hazards that should be understood by the hiker before venturing on any hike. Be sure to maintain an appropriate level of preparedness for these and other situations. More information about these hazards can be obtained at the visitor center. Also remember that it is unsafe to enter any mine or cave without proper approval.

Access
Much of the park's scenic backcountry is at elevations of 9000 feet and above. As a result the hiking season here is typically limited to the months of June through September. Deep snow closes the roads and limits access to those equipped with skis or snowshoes for the remainder of the year. The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, one of the roads which provides access to the high country, is often not completely open until mid-June, though it may be open by Memorial Day Weekend. The upper elevations of the dirt roads that lead into the remote southern section of the park are impassable until late spring. Four-wheel drive is required on some of these roads, especially when wet. Inquire at the visitor center for more information on dirt roads which provide access to the backcountry.

November 18, 2002

GBA is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to support the interpretive, educational, cultural, and research activities of the park. Visit this site to learn more about the GBA or to browse their on-line bookstore.
Visit this site to learn about places to stay, eat, and shop in and near Baker and the park.
The Great Basin National Park Foundation's mission is to promote and support projects that enhance the values of the park. Visit this site to learn about current Foundation projects.