Great Basin Natl park

Drove the remaining but of hey thorough Utah to get to GBNP. Approximately 100 miles of sage brush on this drive. I actually pulled my needlework out in lieu of looking out the window, hoping to see wildlife.
Spent some time days the visitor center, I always forget just how BIG the great basin is. Google it and check the boundaries, but one characteristic is that the rivers in these areas never get to the ocean. They all drain to low (salt-like) lakes, like the Salton Sea, the Great Salt Lake, and Mono lake. These are the recognizable names, but there are many more.
Ate some lunch in the cart and headed up the My Wheeler scenic drive. Only about 12 miles, but ending up in there parking area at 10,500ft. It was still early enough in there day that I finally decided hiker out to the Bristlecone Grove. Only about 1.5 miles, gradually uphill. Wish I had worn boots with a heavier sole. Trail is sort of rocky and had lots off the roots. Temp was cool, in fact had a lot of shade this time of day from the cliffs and trees. Enjoyed the grove and the twisted nature of the pines up here. They have dated many trees and determined many are 3,000 years old. Yes, BC!
Took a side trip to little Teresa lake which at this time of year is a puddle. Didn't have time to do the glacier trail, Charlie and Tom were waiting in the parking area. Drove back down, enjoying some of the overlooks. Since it was almost 5 we just stayed in this little RV in Baker. Been here before, could definitely use some elbow grease/TLC!

Almost forgot, took time enjoy the night time sky...fabulous. we don't often see the milky way these days. Would love to do evening program with the rangers!Read more