White Mountain Wilderness, Inyo National Forest
White Mountain Wilderness in Inyo National Forest is renowned for its rugged landscapes and challenging trails, offering adventurers a remote and serene backcountry experience.
About White Mountain Wilderness, Inyo National Forest
Situated within the Inyo National Forest, the White Mountain Wilderness is a remote and stunning area characterized by its high peaks and vast, open spaces. This wilderness area is anchored by the White Mountains, which stand as one of the highest ranges in California, boasting ancient bristlecone pines—the oldest living trees on Earth. The region is noted for its arid, high-elevation climate, and stark, dramatic landscapes that provide a unique ecological environment. Historically, the lands have been used for centuries by the Paiute tribe, and now they offer numerous recreational opportunities including hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing. The sheer remoteness of White Mountain Wilderness lends a sense of solitude and quiet that appeals to those seeking escape from more frequented destinations. Key landmarks include the White Mountain Peak and notable trails such as the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest trails. The area's sparse vegetation contrasts sharply with the jagged mountain vistas, creating awe-inspiring views at every turn.
Highlights
White Mountain Peak, offering sweeping vistas of the Owens Valley and the Sierra Nevada.
Home to the ancient bristlecone pines, the oldest known living trees on the planet.
High-altitude trails that challenge and reward avid hikers with breathtaking terrain.
Solitude and tranquility in a less visited section of California's wilderness.
Notable Natural Features
Bristlecone Pine Forest
Features the oldest living trees, some over 4,000 years old.
White Mountain Peak
At 14,252 feet, it offers one of the tallest summits in the contiguous US accessible by foot.
Barcroft Research Station
A scientific station at high elevation, used for various ecological and atmospheric studies.