Patriarch Grove: Whispers of Ancient Giants
Discover the ancient wonders of Patriarch Grove in the White Mountains, home to the world's largest bristlecone pine and breathtaking views of the Great Basin.
Patriarch Grove, nestled high in California's White Mountains within the Inyo National Forest, is a realm of ancient wonders. Home to the world's largest bristlecone pine, the Patriarch Tree, this grove offers a surreal experience amidst trees sculpted by millennia of wind and weather. Located at over 11,000 feet, the grove presents panoramic views of the Great Basin and Nevada. Visitors can explore two short, interpretive trails, the Timberline Ancients Trail and the Cottonwood Basin Overlook Trail, each revealing the resilience and beauty of these ancient sentinels. The grove provides picnic tables and restrooms, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the quiet grandeur of this high-altitude landscape. Be prepared for a journey on unpaved roads and embrace the serene atmosphere of this remote and captivating destination.
A brief summary to Patriarch Grove
- Unnamed Rd,, Bishop, CA, 93514, US
- +1760-873-2400
- Visit website
Local tips
- The unpaved White Mountain Road to Patriarch Grove is rough; high-clearance vehicles are recommended, and check road conditions before you go.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and layers, as the high altitude and exposed location can lead to rapid weather changes.
- Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more solitary experience among the ancient trees.
- Combine your visit with a stop at the Schulman Grove Visitor Center for a deeper understanding of the bristlecone pines and the surrounding ecosystem.
- Take your time on the trails; the high altitude can make even short walks strenuous. Enjoy the views and the quiet atmosphere.
Getting There
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Driving
From Bishop, CA, take US Highway 395 south for approximately 15 miles to Big Pine. Turn east onto CA-168 and follow it for about 13 miles. Turn left onto White Mountain Road. Drive approximately 10 miles on White Mountain Road to the Schulman Grove Visitor Center. From there, continue another 12 miles on the unpaved White Mountain Road (Forest Road 4S01). Finally, turn right at the signed junction for Patriarch Grove and drive one mile to the parking area. Note that the final 13 miles are on a well-maintained but unpaved dirt road where a speed limit of 15 mph is suggested. This road is not recommended for low-clearance vehicles. There are no fees for parking or entry to Patriarch Grove.
Discover more about Patriarch Grove
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