Bristlecone Pine Trail, Great Basin National Park, Nevada

With many trees in this forest still standing before the era of Christ — some still alive — the Bristlecone Pine Forest of Great Basin National Park is one of the most unique living places on Earth. Bristlecone pines grow at 9,800–11,000ft in harsh environments that stunt their growth. High winds and cold conditions cause the wood to become incredibly hard, protecting the trees from rot and insects. Some have been documented living up to just over 5,000 years old.

After our Wheeler Peak summit, we followed the Alpine Loop to Stella Lake and connected to the 0.7-mile bristlecone trail. Trees live just below the treeline scattered among boulder piles and rock slopes. One particular tree had roots appearing to connect to other trees. The wood felt like stone and would not budge in high winds. I could sit here all day pondering the resilience and stories these ancient pines hold.