In Galena Creek, the high desert environment fades into forestlands. Galena Creek has many trails, each with varying degrees of difficulty and spectacular views. In September, SFG team members went on a guided hike along part of the Jones Creek Loop. Our guide, John, shared many interesting facts about the local flora and fauna.  

            One of the first trees we learned about is the Jeffrey Pine. This tree is very common in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. While they look similar, there are a few differences between the Jeffrey Pine and the Ponderosa Pine. When looking at the pinecone, the points on a Jeffrey Pine point toward the base of the pinecone while the points on a Ponderosa Pine point toward the top. Jeffrey Pines are known for their sweet smell. The scent of the Jeffrey Pine is commonly described as reminiscent of vanilla or butterscotch. Along the hike, we also learned about the Quaking Aspen, Mountain Mahogany, Cottonwood, and Manzanita.

    In the late 1800s, lumber was in high demand for the Comstock Lode and the railroad.To meet lumber demand, many trees were cut down from the surrounding mountain ranges. After this period of deforestation, the Sierra Nevada forest area went through a natural reforestation process. Pine trees are the first to populate an empty forested area as they enjoy bright, full sun. Once the pine trees are established, firs enjoy growing in the shade. As creeks trickle through the area, aspens and cottonwood trees are added to the forest. This natural process explains why the pine trees are often towering over the other trees.

Our team enjoyed the smells of the forest and being active for an afternoon. We consider ourselves lucky to live in a city with so many hiking trails nearby.

Left to right: Tony, William, Russ, Alyssa, Vicki, Jennifer, Clarissa, Gage

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