It can survive on high, windy ridges and can weather prolonged periods of drought. Due to its tenacity, the bristlecone pine has a tremendous lifespan. A California specimen has been dated at more than four thousand years old. From the trailhead the path winds southeast through dense stands of white fir, Douglas-fir, and ponderosa pine. The path loops out to the cliffs and the canyon rim.
Bristlecone pines grow atop the open, windy cliffs along the rim.
As the trail returns to Rainbow Point, it intersects the Under the Rim Trail. Trail signs along the route direct hikers back to the starting point. . .