Methuselah Trail

Cappie’s Scoop: Mom and I took a very long time hiking this trail because I couldn’t believe these trees! I had to stop and smell them all. They were the weirdest looking trees I’ve ever seen but I’m happy that I saw them. We camped nearby and had a great trip up on this mountain! Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: This amazing loop trail is located in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest in the White Mountains in the Inyo National Forest. The trailhead starts around 10,000 ft, can be narrow in some parts and does have a gradual incline as you wind your way through some of the most interesting trees. The oldest known living tree in the world (over 5,000 yrs old) is here but its location is kept secret to protect it. For a $1.00 donation, you can keep the brochure provided by the Forest Service at the trail start or return it when you’re finished. It provides information on each of the numbered posts/stops along the trail. Take the time to read each one and identify the feature discussed, it’s worth it! It will lengthen your time on the trail but how often will you be here! The visitor center is open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday thru Sunday.

Directions: From 395 (south of Bishop and slightly north of Big Pine), head east on CA-168 for almost 13 miles. It’s a narrow and steep road! Then turn left onto White Mountain Rd. for 10 miles. You’ll pass a scenic overlook along the way too, it’s worth a stop (see last picture with Cappie sitting on the bench). Then continue on and turn right into the Schulman Grove Visitor Center where the trailhead starts.