Hike the Bristlecone and Glacier Trail in Great Basin NP

Jason Graham

Explorer

Hike the Bristlecone and Glacier Trail in Great Basin NP

07/14/25

Stepping onto the Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail in Great Basin National Park is to move through time and elevation, where ancient trees stand sentinel and glaciers nestle in alpine solitude. Arriving at the trailhead at about 1pm, I found the parking lot already full, fortunately, roadside parking less than a quarter of a mile away was available, making for a short and pleasant walk to the trail’s official start. If you plan a weekend visit in peak season, factor in a little extra time for parking, as early birds will have an easier go of it. While the Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail is often rated as relatively easy, the elevation—over 10,000 feet—demands respect. The trail’s gentle grades and clear path are welcoming, but the thin alpine air and the strong mountain sun can catch even experienced hikers off guard. The heat, surprisingly intense despite the elevation, made hydration and sun protection essential. On the way up to the glacier, a stop at the celebrated Bristlecone loop, where ancient, twisted pines—some over 3,000 years old—is a must. Past this loop, the trail becomes noticeably more exposed, weaving through open alpine terrain. There’s little shelter from the sun, so ample sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of water are non-negotiable. Even in July, the sun’s rays at this altitude felt relentless. The views are breathtaking: from dense stands of bristlecone pine, you emerge into wind-swept openness with sweeping vistas of rocky peaks and distant desert basins. The transition is remarkable; less than half an hour before reaching the trailhead, I was traversing sunbaked desert, yet here I stood amid snow patches and ancient trees under a clear blue sky.

5.0

Julie Arsenault

Wanderer

Hike the Bristlecone and Glacier Trail in Great Basin NP

12/13/17

Two major rewards on this relatively short hike make it a must-do for anyone visiting Great Basin NP. The bristlecone pines are really cool to see and learn about up close - some of these trees are 4000 years old! The views of the glacial valley are incredible as well, rivaling anything in Glacier National Park (though there's just one glacier here...). The hike starts out pretty easy, though the last section is over quite rocky terrain so wear sturdy footwear.

5.0