Native Peoples of the Great Basin

Long before Europeans came to the harsh landscape of the Great Basin, many nations of American Indians lived in the region. They had their own languages and cultures, and they knew how to survive in an area with extreme weather and little food.


• The Shoshone made powerful bows that could shoot an arrow through a bison.

• The Paiute created duck decoys from reeds to help them hunt birds.

• The Washoe weaved baskets from reeds and willow.


The Great Basin is still home to many twenty-first century American Indians. They continue to weave baskets, hold traditional celebrations, and speak their native languages. Learn more about the past and present of the native peoples of the Great Basin.