Last updated: December 3, 2023
Place
Pinyon/Juniper Community (Stop 3)
NPS
Pinyon Pine and Utah Juniper trees often thrive together at elevations between 5,000 and 7,000 feet. They can be found all over the western United States and parts of Mexico. Junipers tend to be more numerous at the lower elevations, with pinyons increasing as you climb higher.
All of the plants in this community, including the Juniper and Pinyon, have adapted to life in this arid climate. Take a look. Some of the plants that look dead might actually be dormant, waiting for the water to return. Other plants have waxy or tiny leaves to keep water from escaping. Still others have roots that extend far into the ground searching for water. Like the plants, how have you adapted to this place for your own visit?
All of the plants in this community, including the Juniper and Pinyon, have adapted to life in this arid climate. Take a look. Some of the plants that look dead might actually be dormant, waiting for the water to return. Other plants have waxy or tiny leaves to keep water from escaping. Still others have roots that extend far into the ground searching for water. Like the plants, how have you adapted to this place for your own visit?