3.
Along the base of the mesa are examples of the predominant types of trees found in the Southwest. From left to right these are:
(1) One-seed juniper (Juniperus monosperma), which can be used for fenceposts and fuel.
(2) Pinyon pine (Pinus edulis), noted for its edible nuts which are harvested in the fall.
(3) Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), which provides excellent wood for construction and building purposes.
Watch for black sage (Artemisia tridentata) along the right side of the trail. This is the purple sage of western fiction and is recognized by the silvery down on the leaves and the purplish color of the shaggy bark. The strong aromatic odor of sagebrush is especially noticeable after a rain.