When to Go

Summer is when you'll find the most amenities open and also the most visitors. While Great Basin doesn't get crowded to the extent of larger parks, it has been somewhat "discovered" in recent years, leading to hard-to-find parking and camping spots between around Memorial Day and Labor Day, and sometimes beyond. In these warmer months, you should be comfortable in shorts and T-shirts during the day—though temperatures drop at night, and get colder the higher up you climb, so bring light jackets and pants. Fall and spring can be lovely times to visit, though you should plan for lower temperatures at night and fewer businesses open in Baker, the small town near the park.

A winter visit can be sublime in its solitude, but the hardy visitor must be prepared for the elements, especially if the backcountry is a destination. With temperatures hovering in the low teens, heavy coats, boots, and other appropriate winter gear are necessary. Some roads might be impassable in inclement weather; check ahead with a park ranger. No dining or groceries are available in the park during the winter, and the closest option is several miles away at the year-round Border Inn.

Festivals and Events

Great Basin Astronomy Festival. In 2016, Great Basin was named a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Skies Assocation. This festival, spread out over a few days every fall, is a chance to experience these famous nighttime skies, with talks, workshops, and of course, looks at the stars through park telescopes. Be sure to snag a reservation, as it can fill up fast. www.nps.gov/grba/planyourvisit/great-basin-astronomy-festival.htm.

Silver State Classic Challenge. Twice a year, car enthusiasts of all stripes close a state highway for the country's largest (and most venerable) open-road race for amateur fast-car drivers. The event occurs the third weekend of May and the third weekend of September south of Ely on Route 318, from Lund to Hiko, and is open to just about any four-wheeled vehicle. www.sscc.us.

White Pine County Fair. Livestock, flower, and vegetable competitions, plus horse races, food booths, dancing, and a barbecue dinner make this fair, held at the White Pine County Fairgrounds in Ely, the real thing. The dates fluctuate every August. www.wpcfair.com.