The earliest human activity in the Great Basin was hunting and gathering by Native American tribes.

Hunting and gathering were the primary activities of early inhabitants in the Great Basin, including tribes like the Shoshone, Paiute, and Ute. These groups skillfully adapted to the arid environment, using seasonal migrations to gather seeds, nuts, roots, and small game. They relied on tools made from stone and bone, and their diet included fish from lakes and rivers. This sustainable way of living allowed them to thrive in the region’s challenging conditions. Archaeological findings such as cave dwellings, projectile points, and food remnants offer insights into their resourceful lifestyle and deep connection with the land.