Serviceberry Trail

Serviceberry Trail is a 3.2-mile loop from the signed trailhead on Snake Creek Road, with 657 feet of gain and a start at about 8,030 feet. Allow 1½–2½ hours, and more if you are still adjusting to the altitude. It is a moderate walk through Great Basin’s mountain shrubs, with views toward Eagle and Granite peaks.

At the fork, turn right for the counterclockwise route; it spreads the climb over the eastern slope. The left-hand direction climbs more directly. Expect open, sunny switchbacks and rocky, sometimes slanted tread with little shade. Near the top, the loop bends north before the west-side descent. Openings through mountain mahogany look toward Snake Creek Trailhead before the route returns to its start.

Serviceberry, rabbitbrush and sagebrush cover the open slopes. Granite boulders and a side valley with firs and aspens break up the climb, and the upper loop looks across Snake Creek’s intrusion geology toward Eagle Peak and Granite Peak. In autumn, serviceberry leaves turn orange, aspens yellow, and mountain mahogany seed plumes add color and texture.

Parking is limited at Serviceberry Trailhead. If the marked spaces are full, use the small lot at the end of Snake Creek Road and walk about ⅓ mile back; roadside and undesignated parking are prohibited. The road closes in winter and can stay closed into spring. There is no potable water along Snake Creek Road. The nearest pit toilets, without running water, are at Snake Creek Trailhead, about ⅓ mile beyond Serviceberry. Pets are prohibited on park trails; trained service animals are allowed.