Wheeler Peak 13,046ft, Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Great Basin National Park was one of the most surprisingly beautiful parks I've visited in a long time. 5 hours from Las Vegas — worth every mile. Campground sits at 10,500ft — be prepared for weather change and altitude. Blue hour start through birch forest into prairie fields with flowers and aspen pines. Stopped at Stella Lake for a beautiful alpine morning before heading up to Wheeler Peak.

Snow consolidated at the top — easy to navigate. Rock shelters offered wind breaks but the summit air was calm with beautiful temperatures. House Range and 60-80 miles of Utah desert to the east; multiple Nevada ranges and Ely to the west. Check conditions before attempting — can be icy. Total day: 8-mile summit + Alpine Loop + Bristlecone forest = 13-14 miles. Great Basin is now a major Nevada attraction — and rightfully so.