Moderate, 5.38 mi loop
1,666 ft elevation gain
Hiked 12/30/23
A generally gradual ascent through forest to a large open area with views of the surrounding peaks. Tranquility and solitude are easy to find here, as Great Basin is the least visited National Park, largely due to being in the middle of nowhere and not an indictment on its splendor.
A view across some of the hillsides leading up to Mt Washington. Unseasonably without snow at this time of year. The vast valley of the Great Basin may be seen extending out beyond.
The high point of the trail, at 9673 ft (shown on watch in left corner). Pyramid peak may be seen in the distance. Shocking how little snow there was on December 30th at this elevation.
A Turkey eyes me warily as I pass by. A second Turkey is mostly hidden behind it from among the group of maybe 7.
