The twisted, weathered branches of Great Basin bristlecone pines attest to their longevity and the harsh environment—dry soil, cold temperatures, high winds—under which they grow. These trees are survivors. This species adapts to extreme conditions, entering a dormant state that can last for years during drought. The slow growth rate creates a dense wood resistant to parasites and rotting. Sections of a tree may die, but sprawling roots channel water to living limbs. While the oldest known living bristlecone pine is over 5,000 years old, Bryce Canyon's oldest bristlecone pines are estimated to be around 1,600 years old. This shorter lifespan is partly due to high rates of erosion, which expose and dry their shallow roots. Help protect these special trees by always staying on the main trail.