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Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
Visiting the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is an enjoyable way to spend a day learning about the oldest trees in the world. Living trees exceed 4000 years of age with weathered, twisted, and beautifully colored wood. Ancient Bristlecone Pine Natural History. Bristlecone pines and limber pines dot this high elevation landscape with great views of the Great Basin in Nevada.
At Schulman Grove, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest Visitor Center is open in summer, with interpretive programs, gifts, and information about the trees. Bristlecone trees can be viewed from the parking area and boardwalks around the visitor center. Further exploration of the forest may be done via three self-guided trails.
Beyond Schulman Grove lies the Patriarch Grove, 13 miles north on a good dirt road. Patriarch Grove is home to the world's largest Bristlecone Pine, the Patriarch Tree. Its splendid remoteness and moonscape appearance gives the Patriarch Grove a surreal atmosphere. There are 2 short trails at the Patriarch Grove, with a picnic area and restroom.
A visit to both Schulman Grove and Patriarch Grove is possible in the same day if you get an early start. This is a high elevation, remote area with limited cell phone coverage. You need to be prepared to be self-sufficient, and remember that the nearest food, water or fuel is in Big Pine, CA.
Camping is not allowed in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, however there is one campground on the way up: Grandview Campground.
At a Glance
| Restrictions: | Bristlecone Pine and Limber Pine are protected, no collecting.
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| Closest Towns: |
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| Water: | No piped water. No natural water sources in this area. Bring all the water you will use. |
| Information Center: | White Mountain Ranger Station (760) 873-2500 |
Activities
Viewing Plants
Recreation areas with activity Viewing Plants:Viewing Scenery
Recreation areas with activity Viewing Scenery:Interpretive Areas
Recreation areas with activity Interpretive Areas:Visitor Centers
Recreation areas with activity Visitor Centers:Picnicking
Recreation areas with activity Picnicking:Visitors must stay on established trails and boardwalks. Both Schulman Grove and Patriarch Grove have picnic tables and restrooms but no water.
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Recreation areas with activity XC Skiing/Snowshoeing:White Mountain Road is closed in winter. Typical winter conditions allow for vehicle access to within 3 or 4 miles of the forest at which point visitors can either hike, snowshoe, or ski the remaining distance.
At 10,000 feet in elevation the trip can be very arduous. Please make sure to dress warmly, have snacks and drinks, and have proper gear.
Related Links
Location
