Nature

Nestled in the rugged White Mountains of eastern California, Methuselah is a Great Basin bristlecone pine (Pinus longaeva) the oldest known non-clonal living organism on Earth. As of 2025, Methuselah is over 4,850 years old, meaning it was already a sapling when the ancient Egyptians built the pyramids.

Why Is Methuselah So Remarkable?

• Longevity: Bristlecone pines are famous for their extreme age, but Methuselah stands out as the oldest confirmed specimen.

• Harsh Habitat: It thrives in a harsh, arid, and windy environment, where few other trees can survive.

• Scientific Value: Its rings provide a unique record of climate history, helping scientists understand past environmental changes.

Protection and Secrecy

To protect Methuselah from vandalism, its exact location is kept secret. Visitors can hike the Methuselah Trail in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, but the tree itself is not marked.