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Wheeler Peak Summit Trail
If you are a serious hiker, this is a can't-miss trail. The most spectacular views in the park are accessible by this difficult 8.5-mile trail.
Plan Around Wheeler Peak Summit Trail
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Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Wheeler Peak Summit Trail Details
People can't get enough of this hike to Wheeler Peak Summit. The grades are steep, but nothing an experienced hiker can't handle. Your entire journey through the park seems to lead up to the moment when you reach the summit. From there, you can see the park stretch in front of you. You can even see the curvature of the earth, something most people never get the opportunity to witness from the ground. The final push is very steep but so worthwhile once you reach the top. This is the most highly recommended hike in the park, and if you have the skill to master it, you most certainly should. The elements that make this hike tricky are the whipping winds and the high altitude. Take extra precautions to make sure you are protected from both as you ascend to the highest point in the park. The trailhead is located at the parking area at the end of the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive.
Difficulty
High
Distance
8.5 miles
Estimated time
4 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Wheeler Peak Summit Trail
Compare nearby parks around Wheeler Peak Summit Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Wheeler Peak Summit Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Wheeler Peak Summit Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Wheeler Peak Trailhead
Located at the end of the 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, the trailhead is the beginning of one of the most difficult, but most rewarding hikes in the park.
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Bristlecone Trail Parking Area
Parking, restrooms and a picnic area
0.5 mi away
Wheeler Peak Campground
37-site developed campground located close to a lot of the most popular hiking trails in the park at the end of the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive.
0.5 mi away
Bristlecone Pine and Glacier Trail
This moderate 3.9-mile trail leads you through an ancient forest of trees, but can also be extended into a 4.6-mile trail that leads to the only glacier in Nevada.
0.5 mi away
Sky Islands Forest Trail
Located at the end of the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, this trail is short and wheelchair accessible, and offers views of Wheeler Peak and the conifer forest.