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Exploring the Bristlecone and Alpine Trail within the Great Basin National Park

Great Basin National Park rangers endorse the Bristlecone and Alpine Lakes Loop trail as a must-do hike.

,   and  ASMedia
3 min read
Scenic Drive through Bristlecone Pine Forest and High-Altitude Alpine Landscapes within Great Basin...
Scenic Drive through Bristlecone Pine Forest and High-Altitude Alpine Landscapes within Great Basin National Park

Exploring the Bristlecone and Alpine Trail within the Great Basin National Park

Take a Scenic Journey: The Bristlecone and Alpine Lakes Loop Hike

If you're seeking an unforgettable hiking experience, look no further than the Bristlecone and Alpine Lakes Loop trail in Great Basin National Park, Nevada. This hike offers a unique blend of ancient natural wonders and breathtaking alpine beauty.

Where is the Bristlecone and Alpine Loop?

Head to the Bristlecone Trailhead, located at Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, Baker, NV 89311.

On the topic of logistics:

  • Great Basin National Park doesn't charge an entry fee.
  • Stock up on water at the visitor center before you hit the trailhead, as it doesn't provide any on-site.
  • Keep an eye on the park's website to check if the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is open during your visit.
  • The park doesn't offer hotels or lodges; it's all about camping. Check the park's website for more camping details.

Osprey Hikelite 26 - My go-to daypack. Light, tough, and keeps my back dry with the trampoline mesh.

Gear Up

Though you could theoretically tackle this hike in street clothes, it's wise to prepare by bringing the following essentials:

Norda 001 - Like a monster truck and a comfy pillow had a featherweight baby, for your feet.

  • Hydrate with at least 1 liter of water. Though you can find lake water, it's advisable to use a filter to purify it before drinking.
  • Pack a snack or two if you're not accustomed to hiking long distances.
  • This is a backcountry hike, so you'll want to gear up with backcountry hiking essentials. Be aware that there's no cellular service for most of the hike, so come equipped to handle any trouble you might encounter.
  • A satellite communicator or cell phone satellite SOS device can provide valuable help in case of trouble.
  • The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so bring extra layers.
  • I usually hike in trail runners, but if there's early-season snow, consider bringing microspikes.

Top Gear I'm Using Now

Garmin inReach Mini 2 - When I need 100% reliable SOS coverage, this is what I take in the backountry.

  1. Osprey Hikelite 26 - My go-to daypack for its combination of light weight, durability, and back-sweat-minimizing trampoline mesh.
  2. Norda 001 - A featherweight blend of comfort and sturdiness, perfect for your feet on backcountry hikes.
  3. Garmin inReach Mini 2 - My trusty tool for providing 100% reliable SOS coverage in backcountry situations.
  4. AllTrails Plus - Offers up-to-date trip reports, offline maps, off-trail alerts, and Garmin sync. Use this 30% off [link].
  5. Garmin Fenix 8 - Though it took a few updates to get right, it's now my trusted tool for maps, tracking, and routing.

For more on the gear I use and why, check out my Top Gear Picks page (updated as of June 2025).

AllTrails Plus - (30% off link) Up-to-date trip reports. Plus adds offline maps, off-trail alerts, and Garmin sync.

Bristlecone and Alpine Loop Trail Maps

  • View Hike on CalTopo
  • Download the GPX File

Garmin Fenix 8 - Took a few updates to get right, but now it's rock solid for me. I use it for maps, tracking, and routing.

Hike Directions

  1. Starting from the Wheeler Peak Campground parking area, you'll find yourself on the loop trail.
  2. As you complete the loop, you'll pass by signs. If you want to conclude the hike, make a left, which will lead you back to the start. The loop is about 3 miles.
  3. If you decide to continue the loop, turn around and return the way you came.
  4. The Bristlecone Trailhead, your starting point for the Bristlecone and Alpine Lakes Loop hike, is situated at Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, Baker, NV 89311.
  5. While the Great Basin National Park doesn't charge an entry fee, it's crucial to stock up on water at the visitor center before heading to the trailhead, as no water is provided on-site.
  6. For a hassle-free and comfortable hiking experience, consider packing essential gear such as durable daypacks like the Osprey Hikelite 26, sturdy hiking boots like the Norda 001, and a satellite communicator like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 for emergency situations.
  7. Familiarize yourself with the trail using maps available on platforms like AllTrails Plus or by downloading the GPX file for the Bristlecone and Alpine Loop trail.
  8. Before embarking on the hike, check the park's website to ensure Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is open during your visit, and be aware that most of the hike is without cellular service.

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