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THE MOUNTAINS ARE MADE 3
THE WORK OF GLACIERS 5
THE MOUNTAINS ARE MANTLED WITH PLANTS 10
PLANT COMMUNITIES 12
Below 9,000 Feet 12
The Middle Belt 18
Above Treeline 21
ANIMAL LIFE 23
Hoofed Mammals 23
Predatory Mammals 27
Gnawing Mammals 31
Coldblooded Vertebrates 37
Birds 42
MAN IN THE ROCKIES 46
CLIMATE 48
PARK SEASON 49
WHAT TO DO 49
Automobile Trips 50
Trail Trips 54
SUGGESTED READINGS 60
APPENDIX A--GUIDE TO MAMMAL OBSERVATION 62
APPENDIX B--GUIDE TO BIRD OBSERVATION 64
APPENDIX C--COMMON AND SCIENTIFIC NAMES OF PLANTS 66
[Illustration: Notchtop and Little Matterhorn from Fern Lake.]
In 1859, Colorado's historic gold rush _beckoned a legion of pioneers,
and led indirectly to the settlement of the verdant meadows at the foot
of the Front Range in the vicinity of modern Estes Park, and eventually
to a "rush" of vacationists. As the scenic splendor of this region
became better known, many public-spirited citizens recognized the need
for preserving portions of the area as a National Park. In 1915, Rocky
Mountain National Park was dedicated in simple ceremonies, at what is
now called Horseshoe Park. Since that time millions of visitors have
enjoyed the natural wonders of the park, including placid mountain
lakes, rushing streams, and verdant high-country meadows. Here are trout
to catch, native mammals and birds to be seen and photographed, and
trails to hike._
[Illustration: Pine tree on bare slopes.]
Park rangers are often asked, "What are the main attractions of Rocky
Mountain National Park?" It is hard to answer this question, for the
appeal of the park, somewhat like that of a symphony, lies in the varied
yet repeated experiences or melodies which may be found within its
framework. The raw beauty of the rugged mountains contrasts with the
calm loveliness of wildflower gardens growing nearby. Some visitors
enjoy the solitude, while others appreciate the opportunity to meet
people with like interests and to hike with organized groups on some of
the 200 miles of trails. Many derive pleasure from quietly studying the
fascinating world of nature preserved in the park. Some vigorously
battle the steep slopes of the mountains; others relax in camp, soothed
by the sound of the wind in the trees. Each person enjoys the park in
his own way. There are regulations, but no regimentation, no compulsory
activities, no "musts." The park was established for all to use, but not
to abuse.
Rocky Mountain National Park comprises about 400 square miles of the
Front Range. The altitude of the park is high, with cool summers the
inevitable result. There are more than 65 named peaks exceeding 10,000
feet. The Continental Divide, separating slopes draining to the Pacific
Ocean from those draining to the Gulf of Mexico, runs through the park.
[Illustration: Moraines extending into the meadows, seen from Many
Parks Curve on Trail Ridge Road.]
To those who study it, the park reveals stories of great natural dramas
of earth forces that made its deep gorges and lofty peaks, and of
once-mighty glaciers that carved its remote lakes. Its forests and
wildflowers tell a story of struggle and adjustment to environments that
differ with altitude and exposure. Its native populations--deer, elk,
bear, beaver, birds and the myriad lesser creatures of the wild--can be
seen in their natural habitats. Its streams attract the hopeful
fisherman; its unmodified natural compositions enthrall the artist; its
cool, green setting appeals to all summer travelers.
Enos Mills, "father" of Rocky Mountain National Park, wrote about 40
years ago:
A National Park is a fountain of life.... Without parks and outdoor
life all that is best in civilization will be smothered. To save
ourselves--to enable us to live at our best and happiest, parks are
necessary. Within National Parks is room--glorious room--room in which
to find ourselves, in which to think and hope, to dream and plan, to
rest, and resolve.
His words are even more significant to our generation than they were to
his. This booklet is an attempt to provide a concise summary of some of
the park's important natural values and to arouse your appetite for
further pursuit of the enjoyment they offer. The basic experience in
this National Park, as in most, is to capture some of the inspiration
and spiritual qualities of the landscape which Enos Mills felt so
keenly.