Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest

At 10,000 ft elevation, growing on nutrient poor dolomite soils, surviving harsh winter conditions in an arid environment, these healthy Bristlecone Pine trees can live for thousands of years … literally!  The oldest living tree in the grove through which we hiked is Methuselah, aged 4800 years.  Many trees are 3000-4000 years old.  The downed wood from some of the older deceased trees has survived rotting for more than 8000 years.  They say that the trees erode from the harsh weather faster than they rot.  This visit was awe inspiring and stimulating.  It was a highlight in a week of highlights.