Nevada is home to some pretty spectacular old growth forests. These forests are a natural wonder that we are extremely proud to call our own, and they are a sight that every Nevadan should see at least once. The hiking trail featured below takes you straight to one of the state’s most iconic ancient forests. Home to 3,000-year-old trees, this destination is simply spectacular and will leave you in awe of nature’s unstoppable force. This is a bucket list destination for any adventurer so be sure to check it out.
The Bristlecone Pines in Great Basin National Park is easily one of the most amazing natural wonders our state has to offer. Although it's hard to tell exactly how old these trees are, the general consensus is that these are the oldest living trees on earth.
Seeing this ancient forest of Bristlecone Pines should be a bucket list item for any Nevadan. Surprisingly, it's not that hard. In fact, Great Basin is home to a myriad of hiking trails that will take you right to them.
The main Bristlecone Pine Trail is just three miles in its entirety. With a modest elevation gain of 600-feet, it's a moderate hike that is manageable by most.
The trail is also extremely well signed. You'll set off at the beginning of the trail which is located right by the parking lot. As you traverse the trail, you'll come across some nice interpretive signs labeling the trees and explaining the characteristics of the area.
You'll definitely know when you come across a bristlecone. They can be easily identified by their smooth, gnarled trunks and lack of bark. The needles are about an inch long and cover whole branches.
These trees are strangely beautiful, but it's their age that is truly impressive. Many of them are known to be at least 3,000 years old, if not more. It's mind-boggling to think of just how old they are. These trees were here long, long before any of us were.
In a way, the bristlecone pine tree is the perfect symbol for our beautiful state. These trees are strong, beautiful, and they flourish in the desert. If that's not perfectly Nevadan, we don't know what is!
