May-June
Slackcountry Ski at Great Basin
When we arrived, seeing the snow reminded me of an epic vacation many years ago with my friend Gretchen. I was one of those action-packed trips you don’t ever forget.
Along the Road
Great Basin National Park
Arriving in the park checking out the snow conditions.
Finally! Got to put my axe to good use clearing the forest road to camp! Thanks again Dan!
Ready?
A little thin.
Spring Terrain
Turn around point. Between approaching weather and an upcoming flat ridge traverse, I made the decision to head down.
A few fun turns on easy corn snow.
Great Basin National Park
Great Basin National Park, located in eastern Nevada, was established in 1986. The park encompasses a diverse range of terrains, from desert valleys to alpine peaks, and is home to Wheeler Peak, the second-highest peak in Nevada.
The park's history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation by Native American tribes such as the Shoshone and Paiute. In the 19th century, Euro-American settlers began exploring the area, drawn by the vast natural resources and stunning landscapes.
One of the park's most iconic features is Lehman Caves, a system of limestone caves rich in stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique formations. These caves were discovered in the late 19th century by Absalom Lehman, a rancher in the area.
To dive deeper into the history of Great Basin National Park, visitors can explore the Lehman Caves Visitor Center, which offers exhibits and guided tours. Additionally, the park website provides a wealth of information on the park's history, geology, and biodiversity.
Sources:
National Park Service - Great Basin National Park website
"Exploring Great Basin National Park" by Bruce Grubbs
"Lehman Caves: A Visitor's Guide" by Gretchen Baker
AI
Next stop: Craters of the Moon