Methuselah Loop Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Historical Significance · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The White Mountains and the Bristlecone Pine Forest is a place of solitude in a remote eastern Californian mountain range, on the border of Nevada. This easy alpine trail leads through a grove containing the oldest tree (4800 years) known to be living today. Maps are found at the beginning of the trail and detail points of interest along the way.

The visitor center at "Schulman Grove" is the destination for the Methuselah trail. The nearest town, Big Pine, is a 45-minute drive one-way from the parking for this trail.

While the trail is runnable, it's best hiked slow to enjoy the grove and admire the ancient trees.

The 4.2 miles of self-guided trail is well maintained and well marked in warmer seasons. There is roughly an 800 foot elevation gain and loss. The trail begins high, at around 10,000 feet. The elevation might make it hard for some to hike fast.

The highlight of the trail is of course the ancient trees. Many individuals in this grove are between 3,000 and 4,000 years in age, with some perhaps as old as 5,000 years. The oldest known tree, the Methuselah Tree, is no longer marked in order to prevent vandalism to the tree. It is located near the trail, however, so you'll see it without knowing which one it is.

Bring plenty of water, food, and sun protection. Summer temperatures remain cool largely because of the elevation, but the sun is strong and the forest is not one with a big canopy for shade. Expect broad temperature gradients throughout the day.

The Bristlecone Pine is the trail's main attraction due to its unique habitat, growth patterns and longevity.