We saw the most amazing sights while hiking the Methuselah Trail in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest:the oldest forest in the world, the oldest trees in the world, and the oldest tree in the world.
A bit of a challenge, the 4.5 mile hike took us 3.5 hours. At an elevation of 10,000 feet, the trail climbs 800 feet more, and it was a chilly 47 degrees this morning. BURR!
BUT . . . we soldiered on up the dusty and rocky trail. These stunted trees are between 3000-4000 years old and can weather much adversity.
The dead trees serve as homes for woodpeckers and wrens.
Although this region is designated a desert forest, lichen forms on the rocks.
This Shulman Grove derives its name from Dr. Shulman, the dendrochronologist who is famous for ring dating trees. This is the grove where in 1957 he discovered the oldest tree in the world, which he named Methuselah.
The National Forest Service refuses to share which tree is the oldest in order to protect it.
Can you spot old Methuselah? It is 4847-years-old. We seem so young by comparison. Maybe this trail is the illusive fountain of youth.
Because the wood decays so slowly, scientists can spot dead wood over 11,000 years old. Its twists and turns defy gravity.
Scientists consider these trees crucial in the study of climate change because of the trees sensitivity to environmental changes.
Fire, drought, ice, wind & volcanos are all recorded by this species.
Pete’s lean-on-me tree
Because bristlecones keep their needles 30-40 years, very few drop to the ground. This lack of litter prevents the spread of fire.
After the 3rd mile, we stopped frequently for rest breaks. Jill’s hitching post.
Some of these trees’ bark develop a mahogany cast.
A bit of fall color in the Mountain Mahogany Grove.
Trees that grow rapidly die out more quickly. Slow and steady is the secret to longevity, and the oldest trees survive in the most difficult situations. FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
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