Baker Lake Via Baker Creek

Baker Lake Via Baker Creek is an 11-mile out-and-back hike from Baker Creek Campground to Baker Lake. Within Great Basin National Park, the trail winds through aspen groves, pine forests, and floral meadows as it gradually climbs up to cliff-lined Baker Lake. This trail is less crowded than some of the surrounding peaks and is a great alternative to the highly popular Mount Wheeler Trail. This route is located at an elevation above 7,000 feet, making it a great option for visitors seeking to escape the desert heat of the surrounding lowlands. It is a moderately challenging trek that is suitable for running, hiking, and backpacking. 

The Baker Creek Trailhead is  located off of Baker Creek Road and features a small parking area, vault bathroom, garbage cans, and access to three different trails: South Fork Baker Trail, Timber Creek Trail, and Baker Lake. 

CAMPING AND PERMITS

The Great Basin National Park visitor center offers free backcountry permits and registration, which are strongly recommended for backcountry camping in Great Basin National Park. Find out more about camping rules and regulations in the park at https://www.nps.gov/grba/learn/management/backcountry-regulations.htm. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Summer and early fall are the ideal seasons for this trek.  

FEES AND PASSES

There is no entrance fee for Great Basin National Park.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Baker Creek Trailhead: https://www.nps.gov/places/baker-creek-trailhead.htm. 

Great Basin National Park Info: https://www.nps.gov/grba/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm. 

Great Basin National Park Trails: https://www.nps.gov/grba/planyourvisit/hiking-information.htm.