Twisted Forest Bristlecone Trail
Hike among ancient, twisted bristlecone pines, some over 2,000 years old, with stunning views of Cedar Breaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Twisted Forest Bristlecone Trail
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike among ancient, twisted bristlecone pines, some over 2,000 years old, with stunning views of Cedar Breaks.
"The trees are like something out of a haunted forest and the views from the top are incredible."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
High altitude & dry air mean you'll need more water than usual. Stay hydrated!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail can be steep and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Twisted Bristlecone Pines
The core of the trail
Ancient, gnarled trees with a unique, otherworldly appearance, some over 2,000 years old.
Panoramic Views of Cedar Breaks
Near the peak of the trail
Breathtaking vistas overlooking the dramatic geological formations of Cedar Breaks National Monument.
Otherworldly Landscape
The entire trail area
A stark contrast of twisted trees against white hills, creating a surreal and unforgettable environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude and Hydration
Trail Conditions & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
High altitude & dry air mean you'll need more water than usual. Stay hydrated!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail can be steep and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
📸 Capture the Magic
Sunset offers incredible lighting for photos of the twisted trees and shadows.
🚗 Access Road Info
The 3.5-mile dirt road is usually marked, but drive carefully.
Tips for Brian Head
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
High altitude & dry air mean you'll need more water than usual. Stay hydrated!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail can be steep and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
📸 Capture the Magic
Sunset offers incredible lighting for photos of the twisted trees and shadows.
🚗 Access Road Info
The 3.5-mile dirt road is usually marked, but drive carefully.
🤫 Respect the Trees
Avoid touching or damaging the ancient trees; some are over 2,000 years old.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the otherworldly beauty of the Twisted Forest, with its ancient, gnarled bristlecone pines and stunning views of Cedar Breaks. The unique landscape is described as something out of a mystery novel. However, some find the trail marking unclear and note the steepness of the terrain, especially near the peak.
"Fun trail to hike with some amazing scenery and views. The trees are like something out of a haunted forest and the views from the top looking into Cedar Breaks are incredible. Well worth the trip."
Joey Winzenried
"What a beautiful place!! Going from cool forest into what looks like another world with only twisted trees and white hills.
It gets very steep the longer you hike, especially nearest the peak, but the view from the top is incredible!!"
Daleya Wekluk
"Such a fun little hike, quite a bit of incline on the way there, way down wasn't as bad as I thought, take it slow and you're good to go. It was a little stressful with little kids since they don't have that thing where fear protects you from falling off a 1000 ft cliff but it was such a great reward at the top! What a view!"
J M (Joshua)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is accessed via a 3.5-mile dirt road that is generally well-marked. While it's a dirt road, it's typically manageable for most vehicles, though caution is advised.
No, the trail is not accessible in winter due to very deep snow. It's best visited during the warmer months.
The trail is located at a high altitude, around 9,500 feet. Be prepared for thinner air and potential altitude effects.
Yes, the trail offers incredible views of Cedar Breaks National Monument. It's also mentioned in road trip itineraries that include areas like Alabama Hills and Mammoth Lakes.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, many trails in national forests allow dogs on leash. It's always best to check local regulations before visiting.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, trails in national forests do not require specific entry tickets. However, always check the Inyo National Forest Service website for any current advisories or permit requirements.
As an outdoor natural area, there are no set operating hours. You can visit during daylight hours, but be mindful of safety and potential weather conditions.
There is generally no entrance fee for this specific trail, as it's part of the natural landscape. However, parking or access fees can sometimes apply in national forest areas.
The hike is described as a 'fun little hike' and 'short 1 mile hike' in some contexts, but can also be part of longer explorations. Plan for 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the scenery and take photos.
Some visitors have noted that the trail wasn't marked very clearly, making it hard to know when you've reached the end. It's advisable to use a map or GPS if you want to follow a specific route.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is highly recommended for photography, offering beautiful light, long shadows, and an orange sky that enhances the eerie beauty of the trees.
A camera with good low-light capabilities and a wide-angle lens would be beneficial for capturing the unique landscape and expansive views.
The entire forest is a photo opportunity, but the peak offers stunning views of Cedar Breaks. Focus on capturing the twisted shapes of the ancient bristlecone pines.
Be mindful of the trees' age and fragility. Avoid touching them, as they can be sharp and brittle. Also, be aware of potential graffiti, which is a concern for some visitors.
Drone usage is often restricted in national forests and parks. It's crucial to check the specific regulations for the Inyo National Forest before flying a drone.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
The terrain can get very steep, especially nearer the peak. While some parts are moderate, be prepared for inclines.
It can be a bit stressful with very young children due to steep drop-offs and the challenging terrain. However, the reward at the top is significant.
Comfortable shorts and hiking boots are recommended. Given the high altitude and dry conditions, layers might also be a good idea.
Some visitors have found the trail marking to be unclear, making it difficult to determine the end. It's wise to have a map or GPS.
The forest features ancient bristlecone pines with a distinctive, twisted appearance, creating an otherworldly and 'haunted forest' like atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families: bring plenty of water and snacks, wear sturdy shoes, and consider turning back if the terrain becomes too difficult for your little ones. The visual reward at the top is significant, but safety and comfort should be the priority. The contrast between the forest and the views of Cedar Breaks provides diverse visual stimulation for kids.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the trees, the trail provides breathtaking panoramic views of Cedar Breaks National Monument, adding a grand landscape element to your portfolio. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas and a camera capable of handling low-light conditions for those magical sunset moments. Remember to be respectful of the fragile environment and the ancient trees while you shoot.
🚶♀️ Hikers Seeking Unique Landscapes
Be prepared for a moderate to challenging hike with steep sections, especially as you ascend. Wearing sturdy hiking boots is essential. The high altitude also means you'll need to stay well-hydrated. The reward at the top, with its incredible views of Cedar Breaks, makes the effort well worth it for any hiker seeking unique natural wonders.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Bristlecone Pines
Visitors are urged to treat these trees with the utmost respect. Graffiti and damage are serious concerns, as these trees are irreplaceable natural wonders. Avoid touching the trees, as their bark is brittle and can be easily damaged. The unique shapes and textures of the bristlecones make them a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Navigating the Trail and Terrain
Trail marking can be inconsistent, so some hikers recommend using a map or GPS to ensure you're on the right path and to know when you've reached your desired turnaround point. The contrast between the dense, twisted forest and the open, stark landscapes leading to Cedar Breaks is striking. The journey itself is part of the adventure, offering a sense of discovery as you move through different environments.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the trees, the trail offers panoramic views of Cedar Breaks National Monument, adding another layer of visual interest to your shots. When photographing the trees, focus on their textures, shapes, and the way they interact with the light. Be mindful of the environment and avoid disturbing the trees or the landscape. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the scenery and a camera with good low-light performance for those stunning sunset shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit