06/03/2026
Part 2 for identifying a Ponderosa on race day. The bark is another distinct feature on the Ponderosa trees. Color: The bark shifts from dark brown/black in younger trees (often called “bull pines”) to bright orange, russet, or yellowish-brown in maturity. Texture & Pattern: Deep, dark furrows separate wide, flat plates of bark, creating a pattern that resembles jigsaw puzzle pieces. Thickness: The plates grow incredibly thick (4 to 6 inches), which acts as a natural shield against forest fires. Scent (my favorite part): Warming temperatures cause the bark to release a natural aroma frequently compared to vanilla or butterscotch. So when you’re on the trails take time to have a smell as the temperatures climb in the afternoon.
