Not even kidding — this place feels like stepping into a fantasy movie set. One minute you’re just on a chill mountain trail, and the next. You’re surrounded by these insane, twisted, ancient trees that look like they’ve been through 100 apocalypses and came out stronger.
Welcome to Twisted Forest, where the stars of the show are the bristlecone pines — trees so old they were already here before Cleopatra was born. Yeah. THAT old. Some of them are pushing 5,000 years and still vibin’.
The trees here don’t grow — they sculpt themselves.
These things aren’t tall or pretty in the usual way. They’re gnarly, like nature’s own abstract art. Trunks twisting in every direction, bark peeling like old scrolls, branches frozen mid-dance. It’s wild. And weirdly beautiful.
They grow super slow (like, painfully slow) because the soil is basically trash — dry, alkaline, low in nutrients. But that’s exactly what makes them live forever. No competition. No stress. Just timeless chill.
Some random facts that low – key blew my brain:
They can go YEARS without growing at all. Literal tree hibernation.
Their wood is so dense and full of resin that it’s basically immortal. Fallen trees just… stay. For centuries.
People say if you stare at the bark long enough, it starts to form faces and creatures. (I saw a grumpy owl. Not sure what that says about me.)
You’re literally walking among the oldest living things on the planet. Like, this forest is older than written history. Let that sink in.
After a spicy little uphill grind (your legs might complain, but trust me — worth it), the trail just drops you at the edge of this massive cliff. Below: canyons, creeks, and total wilderness. In the distance? Cedar Breaks National Monument looking all dramatic and otherworldly in the light.
Bottom line: this hike is next level.
It’s quiet. It’s trippy. It’s humbling as hell. You feel like you’re walking through a forest that knows all your secrets — and is cool enough to keep them.
If you ever get the chance to go — DO IT. Take water, take a camera, and take a second to just stand there and feel small in the best way possible.
Are the trees really 5,000 years old?
Yup. Some bristlecone pines here are over 4,800 years old — they were chillin’ while pyramids were being built.
How long is the hike to Twisted Forest?
It’s a quick one — about 1 mile out and back, but it’s got a bit of a climb. Think short, spicy, and totally worth it.
Is it hard to get to?
Not too bad! It’s off a dirt road near Cedar Breaks, Utah, so a decent car and some patience with bumps will get you there. Totally manageable.
Can I bring my dog?
Heck yes — leashed pups are allowed! Just pack water (for both of you) and leave no trace. Ancient forests deserve that kind of respect.
Wait — where is this twisted wonderland?
Twisted Forest is tucked away near Cedar Breaks, Utah — a hidden gem off the beaten path in Dixie National Forest. Just a short hike, a bit of elevation, and boom — you’re in tree sculpture heaven.
