Area Status: Closed

The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest Visitor Center is located at Schulman Grove. Open during the summer only, with interpretive programs, gifts and information. View exhibits and watch a film about the oldest trees on Earth and the researchers who discovered their secrets. Several self-guided trails enable you to explore the forest.

The Eastern Sierra Interpretive Association operates a bookstore at the visitor center, with a comprehensive selection of books and maps of the region. Revenue from sales of these items helps support interpretive programs.

Visitor Programs: During the summer, rangers and staff at the Schulman Grove Visitor Center offer interpretive programs at 11AM and 2PM. In spring and fall, programs are available on weekends.

Water: No water fountain or spigot available. Bottled water is available for sale in the bookstore.

RESTROOMS: Closed for the Season. 

Fees: $3.00 per person with a maximum of $6.00 per car.
Children under 18 are free.
Interagency Passes are accepted.

Camping: Grandview Campground is the nearest campground. No camping, no overnight parking, no campfires in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Closed for the season September 30, 2023 
Parking lot accessible for hiking trails until Inyo County closes gate due to winter weather.
Fees: $3.00 per person with a maximum of $6.00 per car. May-October
Children under 18 are free.
Interagency Passes are accepted.
Restrictions: Bristlecone and Limber Pine are protected, no collecting.
  • No camping or campfires.
  • Hikers must stay on trails, boardwalks, or decks.
  • No bicycles on trails.
  • Vehicles must stay on established roads.
  • Dogs are allowed on leash.
  • Schulman Grove and Patriarch Grove are day use only (No parking between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.)
Closest Towns: Big Pine, CA, 23 miles (water, gas, food, lodging) Bishop (full service, hospital)
Water: None
Restroom: Vault
Information Center: White Mountain Ranger Station (760) 873-2500

General Information

Directions:

We're located 45 minutes from Big Pine, CA on paved roads.

From Highway 395 just north of Big Pine, go east on CA 168 for 13 miles. Turn left (north) on White Mountain Road to the Bristlecone Pine Forest. In 10 miles, you'll turn right to arrive at the Schulman Grove parking lot. This is a winding mountain road with a 6,000 foot elevation gain.


General Notes:

There are no services beyond Big Pine, so fill up on gas and bring water. This area does not have cell phone service, do not depend on cell service for navigation or communication.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Interpretive Areas

Visitor Centers

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
37.385330

  Longitude : 
-118.178211

  Elevation : 
10000