Sierra Nevada Mountains 2025

In the spring of 2025, I first discovered these giants and continue to return. I walk among the Sierra Western Junipers that tower along the Pacific Crest Trail on a rocky slope in the Sierra Mountains just over the border of Nevada into California. These giants stand at an elevation over 8000 feet. The air was crisp that day in 2025 and the sun was sparkling off the distant snow patches. The wind whirled between the bark and branches. I sat and observed all the weathering these trees have endured. I’m guessing some may be 300-500 years old. It is here that I’m able to rekindle a sense of a child’s wonder. A sense of a higher power greater than me. A God many say.

While many on this PCT often have a destination that moves them swiftly along, I have learned that it is not the destination that provides me with true satisfaction but the moments along the way. I ask when you come upon a wonder such as these trees, how can you not stop. How can you not spend time in wonder and amazement. You will find that it is as if God herself placed perfect rocks to sit with these trees. Asking human creatures to stop and see her beauty and creation. To wonder about how trees communicate and keep strong during drought or storms.

Give respect as these trees have weathered winters of 100s of feet of snow and been spared fires of the past. Respect that fires could return and, in an instant, could take these majestic trees. We are guaranteed nothing so don’t assume next visit the trees will be there to provide you with shade or keep your mind curious and wondering.

As you walk, stop and listen. It is never about the destination.