Alpine Lakes Loop

Located near the Wheeler Peak Campground at the end of the Great Basin National Park Scenic Drive, this is one of the more popular hikes in the park. The major attraction of this hike is the two beautiful sub-alpine lakes, Stella and Teresa. The trail starts from the Bristlecone Area parking lot, and you quickly gain about 400 feet in elevation as you hike toward Stella Lake. About 0.3 miles into the hike the trail comes to a fork, and you can stay to the left to continue on this trail or turn right for the Wheeler Peak Trail. Continuing on towards Stella Lake, you'll walk through a forest and cross over a creek until the approach to the lake. Follow the trail, and in approximately 1 mile, you'll reach Teresa Lake. You'll know you're approaching as you begin to see the wildflowers, mainly Parry's primrose, and the spring that feeds into the lake. Get an early start for this hike in order to catch ideal lighting and see the reflections of Wheeler Peak in the lakes. There are no fish in these lakes, as they are shallow and can freeze all the way to the bottom during the winter.