BANFF NATIONAL PARK - Canadian Rockies: Including Banff and Jasper National Parks - page 38

blaze. Douglas fir is the zone's climax species and is found in open stands, such as on Tun-
nel Mountain. Aspen is common in older burn areas, while limber pine thrives on rocky
outcrops.
Dense forests of white spruce and Engelmann spruce typify the subalpine zone.
White spruce dominates up to 2,100 meters (6,890 feet); above 2,100 meters (6,890 feet)
to 2,400 meters (7,870 feet), Engelmann spruce is dominant. In areas affected by fire, such
as west of Castle Junction, lodgepole pine occurs in dense stands. Subalpine fir grows
above 2,200 meters (7,220 feet) and is often stunted by the high winds experienced at such
lofty elevations.
The transition from subalpine to alpine is gradual and usually occurs around 2,300
meters (7,550 feet). The alpine has a severe climate, with temperatures averaging below
zero. Low temperatures, strong winds, and a very short summer force alpine plants to adapt
by growing low to the ground with long roots. Mosses, mountain avens, saxifrage, and an
alpine dandelion all thrive in this environment. The best place to view the brightly colored
carpet of alpine flowers is at Sunshine Meadows or Parker's Ridge.
FAUNA
Viewing the park's abundant and varied wildlife is one of the most popular visitor activities
in Banff. In summer, with the onslaught of the tourist hordes, many of the larger mammals
move away from the heavily traveled areas. It then becomes a case of knowing when and
where to look for them. Spring and fall are the best times of year for wildlife viewing; the
crowds are thinner than in summer, and big-game animals are more likely to be seen at
lower elevations. Winter also has its advantages. Although bears are hibernating, a large
herd of elk winters on the outskirts of the town of Banff, coyotes are often seen roaming
around town, bighorn sheep have descended from the heights, and wolf packs can be seen
along the Bow Valley Corridor.
Small Mammals
One of the first mammals you're likely to come in contact with is the Columbian ground
squirrel, seen throughout the park's lower elevations. The golden-mantled ground squir-
rel, similar in size but with a striped back, is common at higher elevations or around rocky
outcrops. The one collecting Engelmann spruce cones is the red squirrel. The least chip-
munk is striped, but it's smaller than the golden-mantled squirrel. It lives in dry, rocky
areas throughout the park.