Montane forest fills most of the area around Estes Park, Roosevelt National
Forest and lower elevations of Rocky Mountain National Park. It is characterized
by open ponderosa stands on dry south-facing slopes, douglas fir on moist
north slopes and scattered aspen groves in disturbed areas. This is the
favorite habitat of Abert's squirrel,
coyote, mountain lion,
mule deer, elk, fox
and bighorn sheep. Mature ponderosa pines in
montane forest photo display the characteristic cinnamon-colored bark.