Offbeat Traveler: Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
Bristlecone pines like these are gnarly ghosts on the landscape of Inyo National Forest near Bishop, Calif. The location of the oldest one, the Methuselah Tree, is kept secret for preservation reasons, so you won’t see signs announcing its presence. (Gabriel Bouys / AFP / Getty Images)
In Patriarch Grove, about 12 miles away from the world’s oldest tree, is the world’s largest bristlecone pine. It, too, has a name: the Patriarch Tree. (Gabriel Bouys / AFP / Getty Images)
The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is located at an elevation of about 10,000 feet. Come prepared for the altitude. (Gabriel Bouys / AFP / Getty Images)
A close-up of a bristlecone pine and its greenery. The permanent visitor center for the forest burned down in 2009. Construction on a replacement started June 9, with a goal of opening it next year. In the meantime, a temporary visitor center has been set up. (Gabriel Bouys / AFP / Getty Images)
Another close-up of an ancient tree. The forest’s busiest time of the year is July through August. (Gabriel Bouys / AFP / Getty Images)