Where is Wheeler Peak?
Usa, north-america
19.31 km
3,103 m
extreme
Year-round
Cruising up to Wheeler Peak in eastern Nevada's Great Basin National Park is an experience! This road, aptly named Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, stretches for about 12 miles from Nevada Highway 488, taking you all the way up to the Summit Trailhead near a campground and parking area. You'll top out at an impressive 10,180 feet above sea level!
The road itself is paved, but be warned: it's narrow, twisty, and steep! We're talking a 7% maximum gradient in places! Due to the winding nature, passing is illegal along the entire route, and the speed limit is a chill 35 mph to account for wildlife and the road's narrowness. Also, larger vehicles beware, vehicles and trailers over 24 feet aren't allowed past the Upper Lehman Creek Campground.
Plan for about 2 hours just for the drive so you can soak in the views. As you climb over 3,000 feet, prepare for incredible panoramic vistas of pine forests, the desert below, and even sparkling lakes. The ecosystem changes dramatically as you ascend, like traveling from Nevada to the Yukon! Keep your eyes peeled for mule deer, marmots, coyotes, and jackrabbits along the way.
Heads up: this high-altitude route is typically snowed in from November until late June or early July, so plan your visit accordingly! The road isn't plowed above 7800 feet.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 19.31 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,103 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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