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IOR Productions
Flattops Wilderness
Invitation
Video |
Area History |
Geology Info |
Cutthroat Trout |
Real "WILD" Wildlife
Plant Life
The Flattops Wilderness contains a wide
range of vegetation zones influenced by elevation and
climate.
At lower elevations, between 7,500 and
9,000 feet, south facing slopes are usually covered with
sage, Gambel oak and aspen. The moister north facing slopes
are characterized by dense stands of conifers, commonly known as "black timber". Lodgepole
pine is the conspicuous conifer at low to mid-elevations.
Moving higher, Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir become the
dominant forest cover.
Treeline occurs at about 11,000 feet. In
the harsh conditions at treeline the spruce and fir trees
become stunted and gnarled, taking on strange, contorted
shapes. This is the krummholtz (a German word meaning
"twisted wood").
Above treeline is the alpine tundra. The
low ground-hugging plants in the tundra evolved in this
severe climate over millions of years. They remain in
delicate balance and can be destroyed if
disturbed.
| This tree grew 1/2" per year. I wonder if the ancient Utes noticed this tree when it was alive?? |
| Colorado State Flower taken from the top of Shingle Peak 11,994' - What a view! |
| Wildflowers - Big Fish Canyon |
| Marvine Lake through the flowers |
| Aspen trees for beaver dams |
| On the trail to Island Lakes |
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