Snake Creek Trailhead to Baker Lake

Snake Creek Trailhead to Baker Lake is a 10.1-mile out-and-back starting from the Snake Creek Trailhead in Great Basin National Park. The route begins with a climb up the Johnson Lake Trail, which overlooks the Snake Creek drainage. The trail is steep and challenging. It passes by the historic Johnson Lake, and climbs up to a scenic overlook before reaching Baker Lake. It features lush pine forest, floral meadows, sparkling cliff-lined alpine lakes, and scenic views of jagged peaks, including Pyramid Peak and Wheeler Peak. This is a steep, challenging route that's great for running, hiking, and backpacking.

DIRECTIONS

From the Snake Creek Trailhead, follow the Johnson Lake Trail for 2.2 miles as it climbs alongside the Snake Creek drainage. Continue on Johnson Lake Trail by staying left at the trail junction. After 3.8 miles, you will pass Johnson Lake and begin to ascend to Johnson Lake Overlook. About 5.1 miles from the starting point, you will reach Baker Lake. To return to Snake Creek Trailhead, retrace your steps from the lake. 

SNAKE CREEK TRAILHEAD

Snake Creek Trailhead is located at the end of Snake Creek Road (gravel road). The trailhead features a parking area, bathroom, garbage cans, and access to the Shoshone Trail, Dead Lake Trail, and the Johnson Lake Trail. 

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. 

FEES AND PASSES

There is no entrance fee for Great Basin National Park.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Snake Creek Trailhead: https://www.nps.gov/places/snake-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.