A spectacular short loop connecting three glacial alpine lakes — Teresa Lake, Stella Lake, and Brown Lake — beneath the dramatic east face of Wheeler Peak. The trail offers exceptional views of the peak's glacial cirque and provides access to the ancient bristlecone pine forest above. Perfect for those seeking mountain scenery without the full summit commitment.
The Alpine Lakes Loop in Great Basin National Park links three pristine glacial lakes beneath the dramatic east face of Wheeler Peak in remote eastern Nevada. The park is located near Baker, Nevada, approximately 290 miles north of Las Vegas via US-93 and US-6, making it one of the least-visited national parks in the contiguous United States and an exceptional destination for those seeking genuine high-altitude solitude. The trailhead is at Wheeler Peak Campground, reached via the 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, a paved road that climbs from the park's main visitor center near Baker to approximately 10,000 feet elevation. A $35 per-vehicle park entrance fee applies; no hiking permit is required. No public transit serves the park; a personal vehicle is essential. Day-use parking is available near the campground for non-campers. The loop begins with a gradual ascent through Engelmann spruce and limber pine forest on a well-maintained, clearly signed trail. Teresa Lake appears first at roughly 0.5 miles, a calm cirque lake reflecting the cliffs of Wheeler Peak's east face. The trail continues to Stella Lake, smaller and more intimate in character, before connecting to the Bristlecone Trail section that arcs through an ancient bristlecone pine grove before returning to the trailhead. Brown Lake sits slightly off the main loop and is reached via a short spur trail that adds minimal distance. The entire route stays on established trail with no significant scrambling or technical terrain, though the altitude of 10,000 to 10,500 feet means slower progress and more frequent rest stops are normal for hikers arriving from lower elevations. Wildflowers are exceptional from late July through mid-August, with Indian paintbrush, mountain penstemon, and columbine blooming alongside the trail. The bristlecone pine grove near the end of the loop provides access to trees estimated at 3,000 to 5,000 years old, with the gnarled, windswept forms characteristic of this species at high altitude.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Great Basin National Park
- Best season
- Late July to mid-September (snow typically clears late June to early July)
Highlights
- Three pristine alpine lakes
- Wheeler Peak reflections
- Bristlecone pine access
- Wildflowers in July-August
Tips for visiting
- The trailhead sits at 10,000 feet; allow extra rest breaks and a slower pace if arriving from lower elevations
- Wildflower viewing peaks between late July and mid-August for the best color along the trail
- Carry layers; temperatures at 10,000 feet can drop significantly from valley temperatures and afternoon storms develop quickly
- The trail is typically snow-covered from October through June; check nps.gov/grba for current conditions before departure
- Combine this loop with the start of the Wheeler Peak Summit Trail for a fuller day if fitness allows
- No water is available beyond the campground facilities; carry at least 1 liter per person
When to visit
Late July through mid-September is optimal, when snow has cleared and wildflowers are in bloom. Morning starts are advisable to avoid afternoon thunderstorms above 10,000 feet.
Accessibility
The Alpine Lakes Loop involves approximately 250 meters of elevation gain on natural mountain trail surfaces with some rocky sections; it is not accessible to standard wheelchair users or strollers. The high altitude and uneven terrain throughout preclude the use of mobility aids.
Frequently asked questions
Do the alpine lakes allow swimming?
Swimming is not prohibited in the alpine lakes of Great Basin National Park, but the water is extremely cold year-round, typically below 15 degrees Celsius even in August. Most visitors choose to view the lakes rather than swim.
Is the Alpine Lakes Loop suitable for young children?
Children aged 5 and older who are accustomed to hiking can generally complete this loop, but the altitude may cause fatigue more quickly than expected. Families should plan for a slower pace and carry snacks and water for the 2 to 3 hour round trip.
Is Great Basin National Park crowded?
Great Basin is one of the least-visited national parks in the contiguous United States. Even in peak summer the trails are rarely crowded. Weekdays are quieter; weekend mornings see the most visitors at the alpine trailheads.
Is camping required to access the trailhead?
No. Day-use parking is available near Wheeler Peak Campground for hikers not staying overnight. The campground is popular in July and August; reservations via recreation.gov are recommended for those planning to camp.
What permits are needed for the park?
A $35 per-vehicle entrance fee applies. No hiking permits are required for the Alpine Lakes Loop or most trails in Great Basin National Park. Backcountry camping requires a free permit available from the visitor center.