When we left Las Vegas, our first stop was Great Basin National Park in central Nevada. It is not one of the most popular national parks visited, which makes it a gem. We stayed in the little town of Ely which has a rich mining history. It was about an hour drive to the park, but it was a lovely, peaceful drive climbing high into the mountains. Al and I discussed how pleasantly surprised we were to experience a different geographic area in Nevada as the desert is always the focus.
We were not able to visit the Lehman Caves as they are currently closed due to COVID nor did we partake in stargazing which is one of the popular activities at the park. Unfortunately, due to the long drive back to the park and the bitter cold temps, we chose not to venture back out. Nonetheless, we were able to enjoy the scenic drive up the mountain, hiked to the glacier (yes, Nevada has a glacier) and surround ourselves with the oldest living organisms on the planet: ancient bristlecone pines.
The park basin is found between the Sierra Nevada in California and the Wasatch Mountain Range in Utah. Wheeler Peak at over 13,000 feet is the highest point within the park. There is one eroding glacier at the foot of Wheeler Peak. But the most fascinating part of the park was located about 10,000 feet in elevation which was the grove of bristlecone pine trees that date at over 3,000 years old. They can hold their needles for up to 40 years. I was mesmerized by their beauty and uniqueness and taken in with their tenacity to adapt to their environment and overcome. Although some look dead, they are actually alive! Honestly, I have a thing for trees. To me, they represent strength, life and longevity. It was an honor to pay my respect to these ancient wonders.
3,300 yr old tree
That tree is amazing creation from our creator can you believe how old it is! Wow I would love to see it.
So wonderful to see that NV has mountains and trees. haha Those old ones are as old as the red woods. Fabulous pictures.
Wow! The bristlecone trees are amazing! And I loved your analogy of how you related them to strength and survival. Again…..awesome pictures, and I love being able to see you and Al in some of them. ❤❤❤