Old Tjikko- The oldest clonal tree

KarlH's picture

Location

Fulufjället
Sweden
61° 34' 59.9988" N, 12° 40' 0.0012" E
SE
General info: 

Old Tjikko is the world's oldest individual clonal tree. The age of this Norway Spruce tree is an unbelievable 9,550 years and it is located on Fulufjället Mountain in Sweden.

The trunk itself is estimated to be only a few hundred years old, but the tree as a whole has survived almost ten thousand years due to a process known as layering. When branches touch ground, they can sprout new roots and if the original trunk dies, the root system is still alive and may sprout a new trunk.

The age of the tree has been determined by carbon dating of the root system under the tree.

Getting there: 

The tree is located on Fulufjället Mountain. There is a small path leading up towards the tree. However, it is unmarked, as park rangers do not want to encourage large groups of tourists to surround the tree. A free guided tour can be arranged at the entrance (Naturum) that can take tourists to the tree.

The closest village is Särna.

Costs: 

It is free to hike in Fulufjället area.

Interesting places nearby

Funasdalsberget is one of Swedens most snow secure places. High, grand mountains are welcoming both Cross country skiers, Snowboarders and Alpine skiers.

Gaustablikk is situated at the foot of Gaustatoppen, the highest mountain in Southern Norway. Gaustablikk ski resort has 28 runs and 12 ski lifts. Gaustablikk has hotel, apartments, cabins and chalets.

Gautefall is one of the largest ski resort in Telemark, centrally located in southern Norway. Gautefall has 15 runs, and 1 chairlift and 6 surface lifts with a total lift capacity of 6.000 persons per hour.

Geilo ski resort offers a unique variety of experiences and activities, has all facilities within a short distance, and is particularly suitable for families with children.

Whether you want to enjoy the view of snow covered mountains or challenge your alpine abilities, Gol/Golsfjellet provides everything you need.

BASE: 1640ft
SUMMIT: 2952ft
VERTICAL DROP: 1312ft

NO. OF. LIFTS: 3
Gondolas: 0
Chairs: 0
Surface: 3