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Crystalline Subalpine Forests

Ecoregion in Rocky Mountains in UT, CO, NM, WY

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The Crystalline Subalpine Forests ecoregion occupies a narrow elevational band on the steep, forested slopes of the mountains, becoming more extensive on the north-facing slopes. The elevation range of the region is 8500 to 12000 feet, just below the Alpine Zone (21a). The lower elevation limit is higher in the south, starting at 9000 to 9500 feet. The dense forests are dominated by Englemann spruce and subalpine fir; aspen and pockets of lodgepole pine locally dominate some areas. Subalpine meadows also occur. Forest blowdown, insect outbreaks, fire, and avalanches affect the vegetation mosaic. Soils are weathered from a variety of crystalline and metamorphic materials, such as gneiss, schist, and granite, as well as some areas of igneous intrusive rocks. Recreation, logging, mining, and wildlife habitat are the major land uses. Grazing is limited by climatic conditions, lack of forage, and lingering snowpack.

— EPA

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