Bristlecone Pine Grove [Suggest Edits]

Description

Experience standing among 4000-year-old Bristlecone pines. Great Basin Bristlecone pines (Pinus longaeva) are exceptional for their great age and their ability to withstand adverse growing conditions. In fact, it seems one secret to their survival is the harsh environment in which most bristlecone pines grow.

These pines grow in solitary groves just below treeline. Conditions are severe, with freezing temperatures, a brief growing season, and powerful winds. Bristlecone pines in these high-elevation climates grow very gradually, and in some years don't even add a ring of growth. This slow growth makes their wood very dense and immune to insects, fungi, rot, and erosion. Additionally, vegetation is very sparse, restricting the role of fire.

Bristlecone pine seeds are occasionally cached by birds at lower elevations where they grow more rapidly in these "favorable" environs. However, they do not achieve their legendary age or fascinating twisted shapes.

Short Hike: 1 mile

Family Friendly: Mind boggling difference of age of the tree and the kids.

Gem Type: Other