photos by Stephen Eginoire

The San Juan Mountains have more square miles of alpine tundra than anywhere in the lower 48. And with such a short growing season (approximately 180 days), this delicate ecozone makes a most impressive effort to put forth as much life as possible before the inevitable snows. As the colorful flora peaks at dizzying levels, heres an up close view of high country gems.

White paintbrush. Rock primrose. Healthy heads of kings crown. A lush bundle of Indian paintbrush grows along a sunny slope.

 

In this week's issue...

September 11, 2025
Back on top

After harrowing flying accident, local highliner steps back out with renewed mission
 

September 11, 2025
New order

Rule change for Land and Water Conservation Fund raises alarms

September 4, 2025
Armed with knowledge

Local community organizers work to ensure immigrant neighbors know their rights