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13,065 ft · Snake Range, Nevada

Wheeler Peak

Wheeler Peak is a 13,065 ft peak in the Snake Range, Nevada. The standard route is the Wheeler Peak Summit Trail: 8 mi, 2,916 ft of gain, Class 2.

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Wheeler Peak in the Snake Range, Nevada

Wheeler Peak at a glance

  • Elevation13,065 ft3,982 m
  • RouteWheeler Peak Summit TrailClass 2
  • Distance8 mi2,916 ft gain
  • Time6 – 8 hrsVery Hard effort
  • SeasonJun – Oct
  • RangeSnake RangeNevada

Climbing the Wheeler Peak Summit Trail

From Baker, Nevada, enter Great Basin National Park and take the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive to the summit trailhead near the campground. The Wheeler Peak Summit Trail is a Class 2 climb through forest, past ancient bristlecone pines, then up a long talus ridge to the top. Expect thin air and altitude sickness risk, loose talus and scree, steep exposure, and snow lingering near the summit into early summer. Storms and high wind build fast on the exposed ridge, so start early and summit before afternoon. Carry layers, sun protection, and plenty of water, and pace yourself on the steady climb.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (25–35 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Base Layer
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Hardshell Pants
  • Sun Hat
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • Headlamp
  • GPS Device
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Power Bank
  • Offline Maps
  • Water
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Whistle
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen

What to watch for

  • High altitude
  • Altitude sickness
  • Loose rock
  • Steep exposure
  • Snow near summit
  • Ice near summit
  • Storms
  • High winds
  • Rapid weather shifts
  • Cold summit conditions

Quests with Wheeler Peak

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Wheeler Peak?

Wheeler Peak is 13,065 feet (3,982 m) tall. It is in the Snake Range, Nevada.

How hard is it to hike Wheeler Peak?

The Wheeler Peak Summit Trail is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 8 miles with 2,916 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Wheeler Peak?

Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Wheeler Peak Summit Trail, covering 8 miles with 2,916 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Wheeler Peak?

The Wheeler Peak Summit Trail needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard day: 8 miles with 2,916 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.

Will you get altitude sickness on Wheeler Peak?

You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Wheeler Peak reaches 13,065 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.

What time should you start hiking Wheeler Peak?

Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon.

When is the best time to hike Wheeler Peak?

The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

What is the trailhead elevation for Wheeler Peak?

The Wheeler Peak Summit Trail starts at about 10,170 feet, roughly 2,895 feet below the summit.

Climb Wheeler Peak with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list

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