To anyone who is interested in gather Pine Nuts...
After 7 years of no cones producing seeds, this year has been a bounty for gathering Pine Nuts.
Now unfortunately the seeds we gathered are in the Kennedy Meadow area. But if you enjoy Pine Nuts, head on up. The weather up there is fabulous this time of year.
I suggest taking 9 Mile canyon Road from 396. Once you re-enter the forest look for the turnout/dirt road on the left of the road. You will have just entered the Pinyon Groves. Drive in as far as you wish to drive and park. Look for the mature trees with the cones on them. You shouldn't have trouble with that. Don't be surprised if you see others gathering nuts. We were there last weekend and saw about 10 others.
We gathered about 15 pounds of seed. Did some roasting and kept some raw. They are high in protein and excellent for taking along on hikes.