Johnson Lake Mine Historic District

High alpine mine ruins beside a quiet cirque lake

InsideGreat Basin National Park

Overview

Perched near 11,000 feet, the Johnson Lake Mine Historic District is a rare, high‑alpine window into early 1900s tungsten mining. Cabins, mill structures, a boarding‑house complex, and remnants of an aerial tramway dot the cirque around Johnson Lake. The site closed after a 1935 snowslide destroyed the tram terminal and was later listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

What You’ll See

Johnson Mill site with log construction and machinery elements, plus fresh interpretive signage that makes the history click into place.
Remains of cabins and a boarding house tucked in the trees near the lake, along with scattered equipment and historic debris.
A deteriorating aerial tramway alignment—cables are still visible across the slope—and a small dam at Johnson Lake.

There isn’t a formal side trail to every artifact near the lake. Expect short informal paths and look, don’t touch. Do not enter structures or adits; this is a fragile archaeological site.

Getting There

From Baker Creek: Johnson Lake via Baker Creek is a strenuous 9.8‑mile round trip with about 2,740 feet of gain; plan 5–8 hours. Pit toilets at the trailhead.
From Snake Creek: The shortest approach uses the Dead Lake Loop from the Snake Creek Trailhead. The road to the end of Snake Creek is rough and narrow with a small parking area; a vault toilet has been reported there.

Both approaches follow sections of the old mine road and grow steep near the lake. Expect occasional downed trees and variable maintenance.

Trail Experience and Conditions

Above the mill, the route steepens on the old road grade. Near the lake, you’ll pick your way among dispersed ruins in a subalpine bowl. Elevation is the real crux—weather shifts fast at 10,000+ feet. Water may be present in upper streams or the lake, but don’t rely on it without a backup plan and always treat it.

Add‑Ons

Strong hikers often link Johnson Lake with Baker Lake for a bigger day and ridge views of Wheeler Peak and Baker Peak. Parts of the high routes are faint use trails—navigation skills help above treeline.

Best Time to Visit

Snow commonly lingers near Johnson Lake into early summer; traction can help in the shoulder seasons. Spring brings wildflowers; in winter the lake can partially freeze. For the most straightforward conditions, aim for late summer when lingering snow is least likely.

Etiquette and Regulations

This is a protected cultural landscape—take only photos and report any damage at a visitor center. Backpacking is allowed in the park with a free permit encouraged; expect restrictions such as no camping within 1/4 mile of historic sites, plus standard Leave No Trace practices. Verify current rules before you go.

Pros

Well‑preserved mining ruins with interpretive signage at the Johnson Mill
Two approach options: longer from Baker Creek or shorter from Snake Creek

Cons

Steep, high‑elevation hike where snow can linger near the lake
No formal route through all artifacts; fragile site with no entry allowed

Tips

Choose your approach: Baker Creek is longer and steeper; Snake Creek is shorter with rougher road and smaller parking.
Snow can linger near the lake; carry traction in shoulder seasons.
Read the interpretive sign at the Johnson Mill, and do not enter structures or adits.
Treat all surface water and don’t rely solely on the lake or springs.
Expect a steep old road grade above the mill and occasional downed trees.