Discovery Trail - Bristlecone Pine Forest, CA

There are three trails on the trail map at the parking lot near the visitor center at Schulman Grove. The discovery trail is the shortest of those trails at just 1.1 miles. Ordinarily, one would think this is an easy trail. However, the hike starts are an elevation of 10,033 feet and tops out at 10,318. If you’re not acclimated to this elevation, you may find this trail to be quite challenging.


At under 300 feet of elevation gain and 1.1 miles in length, this is the easiest hike in the park. It has some of the best views of the Sierra Nevada to the west and southwest. Also included on this trail is probably the most photographed dead tree in California. If you are familiar with astrophotography, you have probably seen this dead tree in photos on the internet, if you haven’t photographed it yourself.Following a counterclockwise path along the Discovery trail, the trail climbs several switchbacks. If you get winded on this section, the good news is that there are several benches along the descent where you can stop, sit down, and catch your breath. There is a sign about 100 years from the high point of the trail that advises you that you’re near the top.

Shortly after topping out on the trail, the trail breaks free of the bristlecone forest and begins to descend along a scree-covered section of trail. After a few switchbacks, the most photographed dead tree in California comes into view. One more switchback and you’re practically there. It’s a good photograph whether shot during the day, at sunrise or sunset, or at night with the stars as your backdrop. It shouldn’t need to be said, but based on the multiple flags and handwritten signs at the tree, stay on the trail. The sign points out that there is a young bristlecone pine tree just off the trail and the USFS is trying to protect the tree by reminding people to stay on the trail. Proceed down from the hill and the trail ends at the west end of the parking lot, leaving you with a slight uphill if you parked closer to the visitor center.

One last point about the dead tree. The rangers will tell you that the park closes at 10 PM. During late spring and early summer, 10 PM arrives before the Milky Way even rises. As best as I can tell, the rangers are not present at that time of night, but be forewarned. If you do go up to the tree at night, don’t expect to have the place to yourself. As I mentioned before, this is the most photographed dead tree in California. You will have company while photographing it.

2024-06-16 slegal