Great Basin National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour

Discover the hidden gem of Great Basin National Park with our engaging audio tour! Explore its diverse landscapes, from ancient bristlecone pines to the stunning Lehman Caves. Our guides share fascinating stories about the park’s unique geology, rich history, and abundant wildlife. Learn about the area's dark skies, perfect for stargazing, and the cultural significance of its rugged terrain. Ideal for families, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers, this tour provides an informative and immersive experience. Simply download, plug in your headphones, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the serene and awe-inspiring Great Basin National Park! *Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*

1. 1

   Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

   Pass by

   The park's main attraction is a set of six large beehive-shaped charcoal ovens, built in 1876. These 30-foot tall stone structures were used to produce charcoal for nearby silver smelters during the mining boom of the late 19th century.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   Osceola is a ghost town in White Pine County, Nevada, about 50 miles southeast of Ely. It was founded in 1872 after a major gold discovery and quickly grew into a bustling mining town. At its peak in the late 1870s, Osceola had a population of around 1,500 people.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   15 min

   The stars of the show here are the Rocky Mountain juniper trees, affectionately dubbed "swamp cedars" by locals. Now, if you're thinking, "Wait a minute, junipers in a swamp?" - you're not alone. These trees are usually found in dry, mountainous areas, but here they've set up shop in what can only be described as a high desert wetland.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   If you're looking for a scenic drive that's off the beaten path in Nevada's Great Basin, Strawberry Creek Road might just be your ticket to adventure. This gravel road winds its way through the heart of the Schell Creek Range, offering visitors a taste of the rugged beauty that defines this part of the Silver State.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   15 min

   Just a stone's throw from the tiny town of Warm Springs, this massive roadside rock formation looks uncannily like an elephant mid-stride. Trunk, legs, and even a well-defined body - all carved by wind and weather over countless years.

6. 6

   Lexington Arch

   Pass by

   Now, if you're up for a real backcountry experience, set your sights on Lexington Arch Road. This rugged route takes you to one of Great Basin National Park's most impressive natural wonders - a six-story limestone arch that looks like it was plucked straight out of Utah.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   Pass by

   Tucked away in the eastern part of Great Basin National Park, Snake Creek Road offers a less-traveled path for those looking to dive deep into Nevada's hidden wonders. This gravel road meanders alongside Snake Creek, taking you on a journey from desert scrub to alpine meadows.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   15 min

   The Baker Archaeological Site preserves the remnants of a Fremont Indian community dating from approximately 1220 to 1295 CE. Unearthed from 1991-1994, the site was re-buried in 2002 to protect its structures, which include a granary, pit house, and community house.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   30 min

   Located at the town of Baker, the center offers a wealth of information about the diverse flora and fauna, geological features, and cultural history of the area.

10. 10

    Baker

    5 min

    Nestled in eastern Nevada, Baker is a charming small town surrounded by the stunning landscape of the Great Basin. Known for its proximity to Great Basin National Park, Baker is a gateway to diverse outdoor adventures, including the majestic Wheeler Peak. There are a few places to eat and a general store available.

11. 11

    Mountain View Nature Trail

    15 min

    This short 0.4-mile trail is a flat, accessible trail that loops around Rhodes Cabin and the Lehman Cave Entrance.

12. 12

    Stop 12

    30 min

    This in-park restaurant offers a fast, casual meal for park go-ers.

13. 13

    Stop 13

    5 min

    Once used to house guests visiting Lehman Caves, this 1928 ranger cabin is possibly the oldest standing structure in all of Great Basin National Park.

14. 14

    Lehman Caves

    1.5 hours

    Lehman Caves showcase stunning limestone formations within Great Basin National Park. The caves feature intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and rare shield formations. Visitors explore this underground marvel on guided tours, learning about its geology and history.

15. 15

    Lehman Creek Trail

    Pass by

    Lehman Caves Trail is a 6.5 mile out-and-back trail leading through aspen groves and, in the winter, is the only access for the alpine lakes.

16. 16

    Osceola Ditch Trail

    1 hour

    A 2.7 mile out-and-bick historic trail that runs along the historic Osceola ditch, where gold was once mined in the Great Basin.

17. 17

    Mather Overlook

    10 min

    Mather overlook features stunning views of Wheeler Peak, a plaque about the "Father of the National Parks," and a brass relief of Wheeler Peak.

18. 18

    Wheeler Peak

    10 min

    This is the best view of Wheeler Peak and its glacier from the road.

19. 19

    Summit Trail

    Pass by

    This 9-mile hike leads to the summit of Wheeler Peak, where tenacious hikers are rewarded wth views that stretch across the mountain rage, including views of the summits of Doso Doyabi and Baker Peak .

20. 20

    Alpine Lakes Loop

    Pass by

    The Alpine Lakes Loop Trail is a 2.9 mile loop leadig to some of the most beautfiful, crystal clear lalpine akes in Glacier National Park.

21. 21

    Stop 21

    30 min

    This short, 0.4 mile loops is ADA accessible and winds along an alpine forest complete with interpretive signs explaining the history of the area.

22. 22

    Wheeler Peak

    Pass by

    Wheeler Peak Bristlecone Pine Grove shelters ancient bristlecone pines high in Great Basin National Park. Visitors hike to see these resilient trees, some over 4,000 years old, thriving in the alpine landscape. The grove offers a glimpse into the endurance of life amid harsh conditions.

23. 23

    Glacier Trail

    Pass by

    Hike up 2.5 miles to see the last glacier in Nevada. The glacier is often confused for snowfalls, but the glacier itself is relatively small and stays buried under rockfalls. Total length: just under 5 miles.

24. 24

    Stop 24

    Pass by

    Wheeler Peak is Wheeler Peak, the highest point in Nevada, and stands majestically at an elevation of 13,065 feet (3,982 meters) within the scenic Great Basin National Park. Renowned for its rugged beauty, Wheeler Peak offers hikers a challenging ascent rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and expansive valleys.

25. 25

    Stop 25

    Pass by

    The Pole Canyon Trail is just over four miles round trip. First, it crosses the Baker Creek footbridge. Then, it follows the Pole Creek upstream, passing through groves of Pinyon, Juniper, and Aspen Pine trees. It might not be the best hike in the park, but if you've already done the Wheeler Peak hikes, it’s worth checking out.

26. 26

    Baker Lake Trail

    Pass by

    This 10-mile roundtrip hike leads to Baker Lake, one of the biggest mountain lakes in Great Basin Park. but backcountry adventurers

27. 27

    Stop 27

    Pass by

    This 5.1-mile trail travels through creekside meadows, aspen groves, and abundant wildlife.

28. 28

    Stop 28

    5 min

    This roadside exhibit details the Great Basin from the perspective of farmers, consumers, and American agriculture.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Starting Points: Ely, Pioche, Garrison (Grand Army of the Republic Hwy/ Hwy 6, just past the Skull Rock Pass)
• Travelers must have a smartphone compatible with the Shaka Guide app.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.