Ponderosa

The Salmon River runs through a high desert valley that it has carved. One plant that thrives in the environment is the Ponderosa Pine. Its thick, orange bark (that smells like vanilla) surrives most fires.

Salmon River, Idaho

Salmon River, Idaho

However, some intense fires will destroy all, or nearly all, trees in its path.

Lone pine

Lone pine

The tree can serve as a perch to host raptors looking for a fish dinner in the river.

American Bald Eagle

American Bald Eagle