Upper montane forest regions are found at 8,000 to 9,000 feet. Broad U-shaped valleys were carved by glaciers, leaving rocky soils. This region is cooler, with more moisture. Willows, aspen, Douglas fir and lodgepole pine are found. Subalpine forest occurs from 9,000 to 11,000 feet.
Soils are shallow and rocky, wet meadows and bogs are common.
This region is cool in summer and cold in winter. Lodgepole pine and aspen are found as well as spruce and fir. Alpine tundra is found from 11,000 feet and up. Soils are very shallow. Strong winds, heavy snows, and a short growing season create a harsh environment.