Bristlecone Pines
Great Basin Bristlecone pines are remarkable for being the oldest non-clonal species on the planet. This strange tree, shaped by the wind, snow, and rain has survived over thousands of years. The conditions in which they live are harsh (with temperatures that drop well below freezing), a short growing season, and high winds that twist the trees into almost human-like forms along their limestone ridges. Because of these conditions they grow very slowly, and in some years do not even add a ring of growth.
This slow growth makes the wood very dense which provides resistance from insects, fungi, rot, and erosion. And at high elevation, they grow where most other vegetation cannot, limiting the impact that a forest fire might havoc on their near-eternity.
Lehman Caves
We enjoyed a fun cave tour. Scott was able to get some neat photos of the caves’ features.
Next blog post – THE WAVE!!!
8 thoughts on “Great Basin National Park”
Wow, such beautiful cave pictures ! We only drove through the Great Basin and didn’t get to explore as much so you’ve provided inspiration for another visit !
Doug!!! My long lost pal. Hope you and Molly and doing well. We enjoyed Great Basin. If you get a chance to go back take it. The caves were neat and were the pines.
Wow that is so cool. Wonderful pictures
Hi Leigh. So glad to hear from you. Glad you like the pics. Say “hey” to Bill for us.
Wow! How can a tree live so long . I can’t even begin to imagine. Scott the cave pics are incredible. Thank you for sharing.
Hope all is good.
Love you,
Glynda and Casper.
Glynda and Casper. I know. Who knew trees lived so long. They are really neat to see as are the caves. Glad you are enjoying the pictures. We are good. Just chillin’ in small town Texas. Love you too. US
Again beautiful special photos. Never been there and wish we would have done more traveling when we had our motorhome. I rally miss it, you are so fortunate to see and travel as much as you can while still young. We came back from Colorado early this year because Ed was not doing well. We got back in May and he has had 3 surgeries. He still has home health care coming daily to give him antibiotics in his veins. I just have to think positive that things will soon be back to normal. Continue to have fun, take photos and post them because we enjoy following your trips. Safe travels.
Sue, That’s too bad about Ed. I hope he recovers and you too can get back on the road. Fortunately, Houston had such great hospitals and doctors. Glad you enjoy the pics. We feel lucky everyday that we retired and can see this beautiful country. Take care and we will be hoping for the best for you and Ed and the rest of your family.