Along the river one might notice the red inner bark of the Red Alder exposed from floating debris rubbing against the trees at higher flows. This inner bark was used as a reddish dye by indians in traditional basketry. The Big Leaf Maple have the largest leaves of the maples, although the trees themselves are often smaller than other maples. Sugar Pines are often seen silouetted against the sky with their long, distinct branches and long narrow cones drooping from the ends of the branches. Grey Pines thrive on poor, dry soils.
Several branches leave the trunk at the same height in a whorl.
Each whorl represents a years growth and may be several feet apart. The cones, seen high in the trees are second only to the Coulter Pine in size. Don't pitch your tent underneath them as they are heavy and sharp. Acorns from the Oaks provided, along with Salmon, a staple food for the indians. Other Plants and Wildflowers Blackberries and the larger Himilaya Berries are enjoyed in the area in July and August.