These trees are incredibly beautiful and strange, but put away any expectation that they will be anything like the towering redwoods or giant sequoias. They are much smaller in size, but they make up for it with their twisted, partially dead crowns and sprawling, gnarled root systems.
The Methuselah Grove Trail, which is accessible from the visitor center, offers a 4.5 mile loop through Methuselah Grove, the site of the tree once thought to be the oldest known living non-clonal organism (an older tree has been discovered since, but still - these trees are ancient). You can pick up a brochure for a self-guided tour of sorts; there are frequent stops with information about the bristlecones and their remarkable adaptations that have allowed them to survive for so long. The hike gains about 800 feet and takes on average 2-3 hours to complete. While I was there (July) there were wildflowers blooming along the trail, adding to the beauty of it all.
These falls, no matter how touristy or crowded they may be most of the time, are breathtaking. Absolute must-see! The hike up to the top is well worth the time and a great opportunity to get in some exercise in the midst of a long drive.
My friend and I stopped at The Grotto to stretch our legs and look around while on our first roadtrip. It was a perfect spot for quiet reflection after hours of driving. The gardens were lovely and there was a sense of peace that pervaded the entire place. We ended up paying the fee to go up to the top of the cliffs, and it was entirely worth it. We hadn't planned on being there as long as we did, but neither of us were concerned. It is a place to re-charge and reflect, and whether you are religious or not, it is worth a stop.