Baker & Johnson Lakes Loop

Baker & Johnson Lakes Loop links two alpine lakes and the old Johnson Lake mining district in a strenuous backcountry circuit from Baker Creek Trailhead. The published distance is 11.7 miles; the complete line mapped for this route is about 12.4 miles, so plan for the longer day. The loop climbs about 3,280 feet from an 8,020-foot start and spends much of its time above 10,000 feet. Allow 6 to 12 hours, including time to find your way through the high connector. Choose it if you are prepared for a long, steep hike at altitude; it also works as an overnight trip with a backcountry permit.

From the trailhead, Baker Creek Trail climbs through pine, fir, and aspen beside a mountain stream. The path crosses the creek several times, then makes broad switchbacks across open sage slopes before returning to aspen and the upper drainage. The steady gain and thin air are the main work here. Near the lake, the route reaches a glacial cirque below Baker and Pyramid peaks. Baker Lake sits among rocky banks, with snow often lasting into early summer; the water level can shrink later in the season as snowmelt runs out. At the shore, frame the lake against the cirque walls, with rock or lingering snow in the foreground.

The route leaves the clearer stream corridor for a steep, rocky and grassy climb toward the high saddle between Baker and Johnson peaks. This is the least straightforward part of the loop: some of the connector is unmaintained, and its tread can be faint or hard to follow. Do not treat it like a smooth, signed trail. Carry an offline map, watch the route carefully, and expect early-season snow near the lakes and saddle. The reward is a high crossing with views down toward Johnson Lake and across the surrounding peaks.

The descent reaches Johnson Lake and the remains of the Johnson Lake Mining District. Tungsten was discovered in the southern Snake Range in the early 1900s; ore was mined and milled here, then shipped for refining into alloy steel used in World War I equipment. Old cabins, machinery, and pieces of an aerial tram still mark the site. They are protected historic resources: look from outside, and leave the buildings and equipment untouched.

From Johnson Lake, the mapped loop follows Johnson Lake Trail to Timber Creek Trail, then descends through the drainage back to Baker Creek Trailhead. The final leg closes the circuit, but it is still a remote route; carry enough food and water for a full day. Potable water is not available along Baker Creek Road, and the trailhead restroom is a pit toilet without running water. The approach is the 3.5-mile dirt-and-gravel Baker Creek Road from NV-488; park only in designated spaces, not along the road. Winter and spring weather can close the road, and snow can make high-country navigation difficult.

Pets are not allowed on park trails, except trained service animals. A free backcountry permit is required for overnight camping. Fires are prohibited above 10,000 feet. If you want a shorter outing, the separate Johnson Lake hike from Snake Creek is about 8 miles round trip; it reaches one lake and does not follow this loop.