Now this is a hike, beautiful views from all angles and the end hike is a 3000 year old tree, yes I said a 3000 year old tree. An old bristlecone pine that is thought to be the largest and oldest pine it is said to be the oldest living thing in Nevada. Add a short .3 mile hike to see mummy springs to the day for another great view. Things to keep in mind is this tree is about 3000 years old with so many hikers and visitors it is starting to show signs of human use. Please do not climb the tree, while we were there, there were some teens in the tree. I tried not to be the crazy woman but tried to educate them in the fact it was a 3000 year old tree. They did not know they felt humbled but not humiliated or offended. I simply asked them to come down to talk to me then explained why and how this might hurt this tree. I told them«how many things do you know to be alive after 3000 years?» no response I replied«exactly so now that you know maybe you will not climb „this“ tree so maybe you can take your children up here when they are born» Ok off my rant Please respect the things that are here for us to enjoy and our future generations, they add to our lives and knowledge. This trail is a strenuous hike, so take it easy at this elevation if you’ve just come up and are not used to elevation gain(the high point in the trail is over 10,000 feet and the air is thin). The trail is safe and easy to follow, but it can be hot because you’re working hard. There is no water, so bring plenty. It is about a 7 mile round trip hike not including mummy springs and about a 2000′ gain in altitude. I thought this one was extremely hard after you hit the main altitude gain it is pleasant until then it is HARD. From here you can expect a nice slow elevation gain and great views to enjoy the rest of your hike up. We bring lunch eat at the top then go down about 3 to 4 hours depending on your fitness level. The 4 stars come for the fact that it is not patrolled at all and it is being climbed by kids who do I call if they were not so nice and maybe violent?! You never know in this town I am up for fun but also about respect and education.
