Alta Pine

This huge ponderosa pine, the oldest in the Bitterroot National Forest, stands some distance up the West Fork of the Bitterroot River. It was perhaps 600 years old when the Corps of Discovery marched out of Ross Hole and down the main valley to Travelers' Rest.

Having survived unknown and innumerable vicissitudes, including fire, for eight centuries, it finally surrendered its spirit about five years ago. No doubt it will stand for many more years before it lies down, to be drawn back into the earth.

Photo: Bitterroot National Forest