Ancient Bristlecone Pines•Inyo NF

00:00     Title
00:15     Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest           
04:13     Vista Point     
04:48     Panum Crater   
07:58     Mono Basin   
12:28     Highway 120   
17:08     Taylor Canyon Spring   
18:52      Fin

The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is an interesting attraction that is located a few miles east of Big Pine, California. From the visitor center at the intersection of Highway 395, the road is paved all the way to this destination. There are also a few points of interest along the way uphill that are worth checking out. The Piñon Picnic Area and Sierra View Vista Point will certainly liven up the journey, while a roadside developed campground awaits for those who wish to spend some extra time exploring all there is to see in this end of the Inyo National Forest. Way up top of the mountain at the apex of the tree line is where the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is situated, so spending time at the alternate attractions will help adjust to the thin air in the high elevations.

Bristlecone Pines live to be thousands of years old and they actually are the oldest trees on this planet. Some of the ancient pines in the Inyo National Forest are estimated to be well over 4,000 years old and they are still very much alive, even though the looks may be a bit deceptive. Unlike regular trees that sprout new growth seasonally, Bristlecone Pines actually set their own blooming schedule and can go for several years without showing any signs of life. Eons of harsh high elevation environmental conditions have twisted these durable trees into other worldly shapes that are captivating to see. The bristlecone pine cones differ from all other related species and even the thick stubby pine needles appear to be a relic of prehistoric times.

The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest certainly is a great learning experience for visitors of all ages. Just the sight of these spectacular trees is enough to inspire landscape artists. Capturing a twisted ancient tree in the foreground of a night landscape image is a photographer's dream come true. The memories are guaranteed to provide plenty to ponder over for a lifetime, so be sure to chalk up this majestic destination when exploring the Bishop region of the Sierra Nevada Mountains!