%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2FTAL-methuselah-trail-california-METHUSELAHTRAIL0525-4113c4b8340a424b8d9f711f17750099.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
This 2-hour U.S. Trail Was Named One of the Best Hikes in the World—and It Has Mountain Views and the Oldest Tree on the Planet
The four-mile trail passes through groves of Great Basin bristlecone pines, with trunks weathered by centuries of snow and sun. The mother of them all, Methuselah, the once-confirmed oldest living tree on Earth, can be seen from the trail, but, in order to protect it from vandalism, there is no sign marking it. Methuselah is over 4,800 years old, meaning it was already alive by the time ancient Egyptians built the pyramids in Giza. To put it in perspective, Methuselah is well over 1,000 years older than the oldest known giant sequoia tree, which is over 3,200 years old.
Methuselah aside, the trail has sweeping views of Owens Valley and the distant Sierra Nevada. The hike is so spectacular that it was named one of AllTrails' '25 Trails to Explore in 2025.'
"25 Trails to Explore in 2025 is the first list of its kind from the team here at AllTrails,' Ron Schneidermann, CEO of AllTrails, said in a Jan. 2025 press release. 'We looked beyond popularity to share places and occasions that are truly special this year. The magic of discovery is what fuels my love of the outdoors, and I hope this list inspires people to find their own sense of wonder on the trail."
Methuselah Trail is located in California's Inyo National Forest near Big Pine, California. It takes around 45 minutes from Big Pine to reach the trailhead and the hike takes most people around two hours to complete. It is rated as 'moderate' in difficulty by the AllTrails team.
The route was selected by AllTrails from more than 450,000 trails around the globe, including hikes in Italy, Alaska, and Japan. The top five this year include the Peace Trail, Segment 28 in Trento, Italy; Cerro Pelón in Michoacán, Mexico; Boston's Freedom Trail in Boston; Idaho's Alice-Toxaway and Edith Lake Loop; and Hump Ridge Track (Southland, New Zealand. To see the full list, visit All Trails' website.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Post
5 hours ago
- New York Post
Experts reveal the 5 dirtiest spots in hotel rooms
Hotel rooms may look sparkling clean when you first arrive – but surprising levels of bacteria and viruses can be lurking in overlooked places. Beyond the usual suspects such as sinks and toilets, common 'touchpoints' like remotes and light switches are also crawling with germs, studies say. Hotel rooms had up to 10 times more bacteria – including fecal strains – than are allowed in hospitals, a University of Houston study found. The staff at hotels often spend just 30 minutes tidying and cleaning each room. They may skip decorative items entirely, Enza Laterrenia, head of housekeeping at Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel in Italy, told Travel & Leisure. Here's a list of spots that can be teeming with germs, experts warn — and the steps you should take as soon as you arrive in your hotel room. 1. Decorative elements 'Having worked in hotels, the first thing I fling off to a far corner of the room are decorative pillows and any decorative runner that goes along the foot of the bed,' Maria Diego, a San Diego, California-based travel adviser, told the travel magazine. 5 Hotel rooms may look sparkling clean when you first arrive – but surprising levels of bacteria and viruses can be lurking in overlooked places. Davizro Photography – 'These never get washed.' Duvet covers can also be a collecting place for germs. 'Most hotels do not wash the big duvet. They only wash the sheets,' a former hotel staffer noted on Reddit last year. 2. High-touch surfaces Diego said she is also cautious about switches, remote controls, phones, and other major touchpoints. 5 Maria Diego, a San Diego, California-based travel adviser, said she is also cautious about switches, remote controls, phones, and other major touchpoints. Friends Stock – Los Angeles travel adviser Rani Cheema said hotel room phones disgust her the most. 'I am grossed out by the receiver,' Cheema said. 'No one's cleaning that.' Carpets are another culprit. Many high-end hotels are now swapping them out for flooring or area rugs, according to Cheema. 3. Bathtubs Hotel bathrooms are even dirtier than airplanes, studies have found – especially the countertops. But the tub is also infested with germs, harboring up to 40 times more bacteria than a toilet seat, according to a 2023 investigation by 'I also won't take a bath in a hotel unless it's a super-luxe five-star hotel, and only if it's a non-jet bathtub,' Diego said. Jetted tubs can harbor more bacteria and aren't always disinfected fully, according to experts. 4. Overlooked and hard-to-reach spots Ceiling fans, curtain rods, shower heads, and other such spots are often neglected, according to Laterrenia of Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel. LaDell Carter, founder of Maryland-based Royal Expression Travels, said she looks out for other red flags. 'When I enter a room and notice a dusty charging port next to the bed or a bedside lamp caked in residue, that tells me the basics may have been done, but the details were missed,' Carter told Fox News Digital. 5 Bathtubs are also infested with germs, harboring up to 40 times more bacteria than a toilet seat, according to a 2023 investigation by WaterFilterGuru. amixstudio – 5. Glasses and ice buckets Housekeeping staff have been found to wipe down glassware between guests' stays – not replace it, according to reports. 'Personally, I never use mugs or glasses in the room without rinsing them out first,' Carter said. 'I usually boil water in the kettle and give each item a thorough rinse.' 5 Ice buckets should have a liner, experts say. Alla – 'It's not about fear, it's about good habits,' she added. The ice bucket could be the next breeding ground. During one norovirus outbreak at a hotel, guests vomited in ice buckets, contributing to the spread, Brian Labus, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, told Travel and Leisure last year. Ice buckets should have a liner, experts say. 5 Beyond the usual suspects such as sinks and toilets, common 'touchpoints' like remotes and light switches are also crawling with germs, studies say. makistock – Otherwise, consider packing your own drinkware and a small cooler with ice. If anything feels 'off,' alert the front desk staff, Carter recommended. The staff can have the room cleaned again or move you to another room.
CBS News
5 hours ago
- CBS News
LA Metro D Line reopens after 2 month closure
Commuters in Los Angeles once again have access to a popular subway option after a brief closure to make way for future expansion. The LA Metro D Line resumed service after 70 days, starting at 4 a.m. Saturday. It closed on May 17. The closure was designed to connect the existing line with new tracks and tunnels that go deeper into West L.A. The D Line, also referred to as the Purple Line, currently connects downtown L.A. with Koreatown, but the expansion, when completed, will run underneath Wilshire Boulevard. The project will include three new subway stations at Wilshire/La Brea, Wilshire/Fairfax, and Wilshire/La Cienega. LA Metro said the expansion is part of an infrastructure push to prepare the city for the 2028 Summer Olympics. Joseph Hanna, a D Line commuter, told CBS News Los Angeles on Saturday that he thinks the expansion will go a long way for the Games. "I think we're very ready [for the Olympics]," he said. "I love it. It's so convenient for me." The D Line train runs every 12 minutes between 9 a.m and 8 p.m., and every 20 minutes overnight.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2FTAL-lead-image-CACENTRALCOAST0725-7b0d30a2d1054b989b431f9ed77b77c8.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
10 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
I Live in California and This Is the Most Underrated Part of the State—With a Stunning Stretch of Highway
Take your time driving through Big Sur, stopping to take in panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Lucia Mountains. The Central Coast is home to one of the Golden State's most underrated wine growing regions—indulge in a glass of vino at any of the many wineries you'll find in the area. Learn about local marine life and Central Coast history at Monterey's Cannery Row. Feast on seafood at the Sardine Factory or California cuisine at Nepenthe. Shop at unique, one-of-a-kind boutiques in charming small towns like San Luis Obispo, Solvang, or Carmel-by-the-Sea. Some people come to California to take in the glitz and glamor of Los Angeles or experience the hustle and bustle of San Francisco. But between these two metropolises, there's an idyllic stretch of rolling mountains, quaint winemaking communities, and some of the most breathtaking ocean views in the state—California's Central Coast. This region covers about 350 miles between Ventura and Monterey Counties, and is probably best known for Big Sur, a postcard-perfect section of Highway 1 bordered by towering redwood trees on one side and blue Pacific waters on the other. You've more than likely seen a few pictures of the iconic Bixby Bridge during sunset. Compared to its busier northern and southern neighbors, the Central Coast might come across as a bit on the sleepy side. Of course, it's anything but. 'We have a diversity of experiences here that range from the wonder of Big Sur to the iconic golf at Pebble Beach, to the shops, restaurants, and galleries in Carmel-by-the-Sea, to the various wine experiences,' says Rob O'Keefe, president and CEO of See Monterey County. 'It's hard for people to fully wrap their minds around it.' Indeed, you'd be hard-pressed to cram all of the Central Coast's many highlights into one trip. But as noted by Mike Freed, cofounder of the Post Ranch Inn and a Central Coast resident of more than 40 years, the region is best experienced at a slower pace. 'Just take your time—don't be in a rush when you visit, because there's just so much to see,' says Freed. 'There's only one Highway 1, and the views are so special.' Here's what you need to know before planning a trip to California's Central Coast. A guest room iside The Inn at Mattei's Tavern. The Inn at Mattei's Tavern was featured in Travel + Leisure's It List and took home the gold in the World's Best Awards 2025 as the best hotel in California. Located in the Santa Ynez Valley community of Los Olivos, California, this expansive property comprises a series of cottages, suites, and studios. All of the rooms have been renovated to honor the hotel's more than 100-year-old history while fully embracing modern creature comforts. Featured in our 2023 It List, the adults-only Villa Mara Carmel has just 15 airy rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, where Clint Eastwood served as mayor in the '80s. Villa Mara Carmel's warm, cream-colored interiors and furnishings contrast with the sometimes moody seashore outside. Guests can also cozy up at the outdoor fire pit with a craft cocktail from Jesena's Bar. Perched above Big Sur's thundering waves, the Post Ranch Inn appeared in T+L's World's Best Awards in 2023. From wood paneling in the rooms to heated outdoor infinity pools and the Michelin-recognized Sierra Mar restaurant, the property exudes quiet luxury. But the Post Ranch Inn also has an ecofriendly ethos, a factor of utmost importance in Big Sur's unique environment. 'We have one of the largest solar systems in the state of California for a hotel," Freed says. "We have our own farm, so we produce much of our own produce on the property, and we're now working with a number of groups to do organic and regenerative agriculture.' You might recognize Alila Ventana Big Sur from T+L's World's Best Awards or from social media posts—this five-star property's open-air spa and gorgeous gardens are the stuff of Instagram dreams. In terms of stays, you can lounge around in one of the 54 guest rooms and suites or spread out in one of 15 glamping tents for a night beneath the stars. Nearby Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a recognized dark sky location, too. A stay at Montecito's idyllic San Ysidro Ranch puts you in good company—the property counts Winston Churchill, Groucho Marx, and John and Jackie Kennedy among its past guests. Plus, San Ysidro Ranch was voted the second best hotel in California in this year's World's Best Awards. Expect stylish details like outdoor rainfall showers, sunken in-room spa tubs, and four-poster canopy beds during your all-inclusive stay. View of McWay Falls in Big Sur. Big Sur is a veritable treasure trove of coastal scenery. Along this 90-mile stretch of Highway 1 (aka the Pacific Coast Highway) you'll find no less than five California state parks, dramatic cliffs plunging into bright blue waters, and purple sand beaches. A word of warning: Highway 1 closes periodically due to erosion, and a six-mile stretch of the road is currently closed. However, visitors can still enter from the north and south and drive up to the point of the closure. 'The Highway 1 driving experience is amazing,' says O'Keefe. 'You can still get all the wonder and beauty of Highway 1, even when the road isn't completely open. There's camping, glamping, hotels, restaurants, shops, galleries—all of that's still available to everybody.' According to Freed, visitors should set out early or late in the day to make the most of their time in Big Sur. 'The sunrises and sunsets are the best,' he says. 'Try to avoid midday when the crowds are driving Highway 1, because it can get busy, especially when the road from the south is closed.' The northern end of the Central Coast is capped off by Monterey Bay, home to Cannery Row (of John Steinbeck fame). Once the hub of the local sardine canning industry, it's now a picturesque spot to grab a bite to eat, play arcade games, and watch sea otters frolic in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary offshore. 'You could come and make an entire two or three-day experience out of Cannery Row,' says O'Keefe. 'It's its own entertainment and tourism district.' No matter how long you spend here, you can't visit Cannery Row without seeing the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which provides a glimpse into local marine life, including the Monterey Canyon, one of the deepest underwater canyons on the West Coast, via more than 200 exhibits. Located in San Simeon, Hearst Castle is a sprawling mansion built by 20th-century media tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Once frequented by celebs like Clark Gable and Joan Crawford, Hearst Castle is now open to the public for tours, which showcase Hearst's impressive art collection, massive swimming pools, and lush gardens. You might even spot some zebras—yes, zebras—grazing in the hills. The Central Coast American Viticultural Area spans the entirety of the Central Coast and includes cute small towns known for their wine scenes, such as San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, and Atascadero. While the Central Coast doesn't quite have the same name recognition as Napa or Sonoma yet, it could certainly give them a run for their money. 'Our wine country experience is almost like people would think Napa was like back in the '70s,' says O'Keefe. 'It's very authentic, very easy to approach.' There are hundreds of options up and down the Central Coast, but popular wineries include Biddle Ranch Vineyard in San Luis Obispo, Folktale Winery & Vineyard in Carmel, and Eberle Winery in Paso Robles. Though many visitors come to drive the Central Coast, you might want to spend some time exploring the area on foot as well. 'Where else can you go in the world where you have so much open space and great hiking trails?' Freed asks. 'There's no better hiking anywhere in California, if not in the world.' To get the quintessential Central Coast hiking experience (outside of Big Sur, of course), head to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. This 1,300-acre space has many of the same features as Andrew Molera and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Parks, including striking Monterey cypress trees and stellar sea views, but with fewer crowds. Danish architecture in downtown Solvang, California. DiscoThe Danish-style town of Solvang is packed with tasteful art galleries and stores selling Scandinavian-inspired wares. After shopping, snap some pics of the charming Danish architecture and stop by Ostrichland USA to feed emus and ostrich on your way out of town. Downtown San Luis Obispo's expansive retail scene has a little something for everyone. Fascinating used bookstores like Phoenix Books, one-of-a-kind gift stores like Idlewild Floral, and the music memorabilia-stuffed Boo Boo Records all make for a lively and varied day of shopping. With a population of just 18, the former dairy community of Harmony isn't a town by any stretch of the imagination. It is, however, an excellent pit stop along Highway 1 to buy hand-blown glass pieces, wheel-thrown pottery, and a scoop of freshly churned ice cream. For a wider selection of handcrafted goodies, the town of Cambria (population 6,000) is just up the road. In the center of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the outdoor shopping center Carmel Plaza hosts luxury retailers and quaint boutiques alike. Come by to browse the selection at shops like Bottega Veneta and Beachwood Home, and stay to people-watch and snack on the outdoor patio. State Street in Santa Barbara is lined with clothiers like Asher Market, brand-name department stores at Paseo Nuevo mall, and cafes like Dune Coffee Roasters, perfect for a quick pick-me-up. And you might just need a cup of the good stuff—with dozens of different retailers to choose from, you can easily spend hours here. Scenes from inside Nate's On Marsh. One of downtown San Luis Obispo's culinary gems, Nate's on Marsh serves up fresh takes on Italian classics like ragu, bolognese, and lasagne. Recognized by the Michelin Guide in 2022, Nate's on Marsh is fast becoming a local landmark. Specials like veal osso buco tend to grab most of the attention, but no matter what you order, you're sure to leave full and satisfied. Paso Robles' Six Test Kitchen earned its Michelin star thanks to its focus on seasonal produce and inventive flavor profiles. The 12-course tasting menu shifts, but past dishes have included aged pork loin and barley koji ice cream served with whipped miso. Bring an adventurous set of taste buds, and you won't be disappointed. Skip the peanut butter and jelly sandwiches on your trip to Big Sur and get lunch at Nepenthe instead. This clifftop restaurant boasts colorful, California-cool decor and menu staples like a fresh beet salad and juicy hamburgers. Be sure to check out the wine menu, which is all about local vintners. Pizza fans, look no further than Santa Barbara's Bettina. This Michelin Bib Gourmand-designated spot fires up a variety of pies topped with everything from maitake trumpet mushrooms to locally produced sausage. The interior design channels all the cheer of a European bistro—if you look away from your pizzas long enough to notice, that is. If the expansive seafood menu or the Michelin recognition at the Sardine Factory doesn't impress you, then the conservatory-style dining room just might. This Monterey restaurant is a classic, and you'll be tucking into lobster linguine, freshly shucked oysters, and Spanish-style octopus before you know it. Pro tip: with its fancy interior, this is the perfect place to play like you're living in the Golden Age à la William Randolph Hearst. Since California is famous for its year-round balmy weather, you can enjoy a trip to the Central Coast in just about any season. One of the region's few seasonal variations is the summertime 'June gloom'—overcast, cool days marked by a low-hanging marine layer. However, the clouds typically give way to blue skies by midday. Other than that, you could time your visit to one of the Central Coast's many events, like the Cayucos Sea Glass Festival in March, the Carmel Bach Festival in July, Carpinteria's California Avocado Festival in October, or the Cambria Christmas Market in late November and December. A street sign along the coast of Highway 1 in Big Sur. Konstantin Yolshin/Adobe Stock One of the best things about the Central Coast is simply getting there by car, and the ocean-view roads here are some of the most gorgeous in the country. The Central Coast is roughly halfway between L.A. and San Francisco, and your drive times will depend on the places you'd like to visit. Big Sur, a point of interest for many Central Coast visitors, is about 350 miles from L.A. (approximately a six-hour drive) and a little under 150 miles from San Francisco or about a three-hour drive. If you're flying in from another part of the country, there are several airports sprinkled throughout the area, including Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), SLO County Airport (SLO), and Santa Maria Airport (SMX). You could also choose to fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) if you want more flexible or direct flight options. Since there's no public transportation connecting the Central Coast, you'll need to rent a car. Depending on where on the Central Coast you want to go, however, you could also ride the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, which runs between San Diego and San Luis Obispo—it has famously stunning views, too. You'll almost certainly need a car to fully explore the breadth of the Central Coast. With that said, some towns and cities may be accessible by bike or public transport. For example, Monterey offers a free trolley during the summer, San Luis Obispo has plenty of bike lanes, and Santa Barbara's bus system is easy to use.
