#114 Fragile

This overlook tower near Medicine Bow Pass on Wyoming State Highway 130 was built to replicate the CCC style of the 1930's. It gives a nice backdrop to the high elevation fragile eco-system. Some of the smaller plants at this altitude can take seven years to "collect" enough sun energy and water so they can bloom and make seeds. Then they die. There are signs everywhere encouraging people to stay on the trails so this fragility has an opportunity to continue to thrive. Walking on the "weeds" stomps out the plants, which not only prevent erosion but provide food for animals.

See the tree with branches on only one side? It's called a flag tree and indicates which direction the wind usually blows, quite violently sometimes. The wind is not blowing in this photo.