White Mountains (California) - Ancient Bristlecone Patriarch Grove


For more information how to plan your White Mountains Ancient Bristlecone visit:

https://www.yiftahshahar.com/2021/05/ancient-bristlecone-pine-forest.html


 

 

Introduction:

What? : At the Ancient Bristlecone Patriarch Grove you can find interesting view of the old Ancient Bristlecone pine where they are in their highest location along the ridge. There is also a nice nearby high viewpoint to the east. This beautiful and quiet grove includes the world's largest bristlecone pine, the Patriarch Tree.


 

Where? : Located far within the White Mountain range, from Big pine on highway 395 head east on highway 168, after 13 miles turn left into White Mountain Road, take this road up the mountain ridge for 10 miles. Additional 16 miles from the visitor center on dirt road will bring you to the Patriarch Grove.

Google Map Link

 

When? : Summer only, the road is covered with snow at winter, it is close usually from late October through late June or early July (depending on snow).

 

Due note 1: Remember that you are at high altitude, and altitude sickness (AMS) can be deadly, as always listen to your body and do not push it.

 

Due note 2: This is a high mountain range, far from any service, bring enough fuel with you, nearest gas station is at highway 395 (Big Pine or Bishop).

 

Due note 3: Make sure you have a good shape spare tire and that you know how to replace a flat.

 

Due note 4: Bring enough water and food and watch the weather and potential storms. High temperatures in summertime at the mountain top are around 73f so you should plan for potential cold and windy situations, including summer thunderstorms with lightning.

 

Due note 5: Surprisingly, even though this is a remote mountain range far away from any nearby settlement you will find that you have a good cell reception in many locations along the ridge.

 

Due note 6: You don’t need a permit to hike to the White Mountain Peak or park for the night at the trailhead (end of the dirt road).

 

Due note 7: At Patriarch Grove you'll find picnic tables, restrooms, and self-guided interpretive trails.

 

Due note 8: Camping is not allowed in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.

 

My thoughts: Highly recommend visiting in this remote Ancient Bristlecone grove.

There are 2 shorts hike but it worth it.

 



Patriarch Grove hikes:

Once you will arrive the parking lot at the end of the side road leading to Patriarch Grove you will have 2 short hiking options, my recommendation is to do them both.

Start with the Timberline Ancient Nature Trail, a quarter mile long easy trail that will take you between the trees near the picnic area.

The second trail, Cottonwood Basin Overlook Trail, start at the east side of the parking lot. Short and easy climb to the nearby viewing point, from here there is a far as the eye can see view to the east. The trail going down from the other side of the hill and pass through many big old trees. Take your time in this section and enjoy the trees, soon after you will be back at the parking lot.

 


www:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recarea?recid=20270&actid=50

 

Pictures:

 









































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