Advertisement
Travel & Experiences

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.

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)

Share

In the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest near Bishop, Calif., stand some of the world’s oldest trees. When the most senior of these were sprouting up, the great Pyramids of Giza were being built. Among the gnarled bunch is the Methuselah Tree, said to be the world’s oldest. Named after the aged biblical figure, it is believed to be nearly 5,000 years old.

The pine forest, part of Inyo National Forest, recently reopened after a winter hiatus, with the visitor center open daily. Two of the three nearby hiking trails remain closed. The 1-mile Discovery trail is open. The Methuselah Loop trail is expected to reopen in the coming weeks.

Before you visit, here are six views of the forest and some facts to consider.

-- Jason La

Ancient trees

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)

Ancient trees

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)

Ancient trees

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)

Ancient trees

Another close-up of an ancient tree. The forest’s busiest time of the year is July through August.  (Gabriel Bouys / AFP / Getty Images)

Travel & Experiences

More From the Los Angeles Times

Advertisement