Great Basin on April 30th
I think I may have screwed up. I will be visiting Great Basin National Park later this month, on April 30th. Unfortunately, I only have 1 day free to visit. I did some research (though apparently not enough!!) and thought Wheeler Peak Drive seemed really cool and definitely doable in one day, but it sounds like it might not yet be open on April 30th. Is there any chance it might be open or am I just wishful thinking? If it's closed, is the alpine lakes trail closed, too? Are any trails open? Thanks for any info or ideas of what I could see if Wheeler Peak dr may be a no-go?
Don't worry—you're not alone in this! The Great Basin National Park is a beautiful place to visit, and while late April is a bit early for some of the higher-elevation experiences, there are still plenty of things to see and do. Here's the info based on what you can expect for your visit on April 30th:
Wheeler Peak Drive: Unfortunately, Wheeler Peak Drive usually doesn't open until late May or early June due to snow and weather conditions. By the end of April, it’s almost certainly going to be closed, as there is often snow at higher elevations at this time. So, while it would be an amazing drive, it’s not likely to be accessible during your visit. However, if you’re visiting later in the season, it’s a must-see! But in late April, you will need to explore other parts of the park.
Alpine Lakes Trail: The Alpine Lakes Trail, which leads to the scenic Stella and Teresa Lakes, is also located in higher elevations, and it will likely be snowed in or too muddy for safe hiking at the end of April. Even if it’s open in some sections, hiking may be challenging due to snow and potentially treacherous conditions. Keep this in mind when planning your hike.
What can you do instead? While Wheeler Peak and the alpine lakes may be inaccessible, don’t worry—there are still plenty of other things to see and do in Great Basin National Park! Here are some options for your visit:
- Lehman Caves: A visit to Lehman Caves is a great alternative and one of the highlights of the park. The cave tours operate year-round, and you can book a guided tour that will take you through stunning formations like stalactites and stalagmites. It’s a cool experience even in late April, as the cave remains at a steady temperature.
- Lowland Trails: Several lower-elevation trails may still be open, such as the Bristlecone Pine Trail and the Grey Cliff Trail. These trails are usually clear of snow and offer great views of the park’s unique ecosystems and wildlife. The Bristlecone Pine Trail is especially great if you want to see some ancient trees (the bristlecones are thousands of years old!).
- Visitor Center and Scenic Views: If the weather is nice, you can still enjoy some beautiful scenic views from the park’s lower elevations. The visitor center has exhibits on the park’s history, geology, and wildlife, which could be an informative way to spend your time. You can also take a drive around the lower portions of the park for scenic views.
- Stargazing: Great Basin National Park is a dark sky park, meaning it's perfect for stargazing. If you have a clear night, this is an excellent opportunity to see the night sky, including the Milky Way, without light pollution. Check out the star-gazing program if it's available during your visit!
Final Tips: Before heading out on any trails, make sure to check current trail conditions with the visitor center. Weather can change quickly, and they’ll have up-to-date information on trail closures or advisories. If the weather looks good, consider spending some time exploring the lowland trails, and enjoy the beauty of the park while keeping safety in mind!
Hope this helps, and you still have a fantastic time at Great Basin National Park! Enjoy your adventure!
