Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Which ecosystems are protected in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Rocky Mountains
Physical features of western North America.
Rocky Mountain National Park protects three distinct ecosystems within its boundaries:
- Montane: This lower-elevation ecosystem is characterized by a variety of plant life, including aspen, fir, pine, and spruce trees.1
- Subalpine: A transitional zone situated between the montane and alpine regions.1
- Alpine tundra: Comprising one-third of the park's total area, this high-country environment serves as an island of arctic vegetation.1
These diverse habitats support a wide array of wildlife, including elk, moose, black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, bighorn sheep, and deer.1