As distinct as they are ambiguous, aspen groves are commonplace in these parts. Composing vast areas of our montane forests, aspen colonies are ancient entities with root systems that can be tens of thousands of years old. When examined up close, each individual tree bears the scars of time, illuminating a story of life and survival in the mountains. Here’s a look at a few different characters standing quietly in a grove near you.

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  Day in the Life

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  Day in the Life

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  Day in the Life

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  Day in the Life

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  Day in the Life

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  Day in the Life