If you’re in search of the perfect autumn destination where you can enjoy stunning scenery and fall foliage, Nevada’s Great Basin National Park should definitely be on your bucket list. It’s one of the least-visited and most underrated national parks out West, offering a beautiful place to enjoy nature’s colorful spectacle.
Fall is a wonderful time to travel around the United States. While a few places remain warm year-round, most regions experience the rich tapestry of four distinct seasons. As the temperatures dip around the autumn equinox, lush deciduous forests erupt with breathtaking color. In September and October, wandering along forest paths, you’ll be surrounded by leaves in enchanting shades of sunshine yellow, fiery crimson, and burnt orange.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts flock to America’s national parks during the autumn months. While eastern U.S. locations typically get most of the hype for leaf-peeping, many parks become overcrowded. If you seek fall colors without the throngs of fellow visitors, Great Basin National Park in Nevada offers a tranquil retreat.
### Autumn Adventures at Great Basin National Park
Hiker in Great Basin National Park – D. Lillie Photography/Shutterstock
Typically, forests and fall foliage aren’t the primary attractions for visitors to Nevada. The state is more renowned for its rugged deserts and vibrant nightlife. The glimmering city of Las Vegas, dubbed the Entertainment Capital of the World, is one of the best destinations for nightlife. However, Great Basin National Park, located in eastern Nevada, near the Utah border, only attracts around 140,000 visitors annually. This makes it an ideal spot for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.
Many of the popular national parks for leaf peeping become swamped with visitors during the fall months, which can detract from the natural beauty. But at Great Basin National Park, you’ll find peaceful moments along the trails. The Baker’s Creek Loop is a picturesque 3.4-mile hiking trail showcasing some of the finest fall colors. For stunning views of vibrant yellow cottonwoods, wander the Shoshone Trail along Snake Creek. If hiking isn’t your thing, the scenic 12-mile Wheeler Peak Drive provides a beautiful route through groves of aspen trees.
Autumn also presents an extraordinary opportunity for stargazing in Great Basin National Park. With early sunsets and long nights, the park boasts some of the darkest skies in the country. Recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, it offers unparalleled celestial views due to minimal light pollution.
### Planning Your Trip to Great Basin National Park
Camping in Great Basin National Park – Kit Leong/Shutterstock
The optimal time to visit Great Basin for fall foliage is from mid-September to mid-October. After this period, parts of the park begin seasonal closures, and early November can bring heavy snowfall.
One reason Great Basin National Park remains lesser-known is the effort required to get there. Situated in a remote area, it’s approximately a four-hour drive from the nearest major airport. Salt Lake City International Airport is about 230 miles away, while Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas is just under 300 miles. Public transportation options are lacking, so renting a car is essential, with costs averaging $50 per day in Las Vegas and around $20 a day in Salt Lake City.
Accommodations around Great Basin are limited due to its remote location. The park features five campgrounds that tend to fill up quickly on weekends and holidays, so reservations through Recreation.gov are recommended, costing approximately $20 per night. For those seeking a more rustic experience, dispersed camping is allowed. The nearby town of Baker offers lodging with rates starting around $140 per night, just five miles from the park.
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Read the original article on Explore.