Читать книгу Hiking & Backpacking Big Sur. Your complete guide to the trails of Big Sur, Ventana Wilderness, and Silver Peak Wilderness онлайн

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Climate change millions of years ago isolated this stand of Santa Lucia fir to the milder coastal climate of Big Sur.

The incense cedar is another disjunct tree removed from its Sierra Nevada population. When crushed, its flat, scaled foliage emits a pungent aroma. Botanists speculate that this tree was also once widespread, but as the climate warmed over the past 10,000 years and wildfires became more commonplace, its range shrank drastically.

The mixed evergreen plant community shares many of the plant and animal species commonly seen in Big Sur’s oak woodlands. Consult that wildlife list for representative species.

BIG SUR SEASONS

Big Sur’s steep, rugged topography and proximity to the ocean lead to a diverse array of regional microclimates. Deep, narrow canyons remain shady and cool even in sweltering summer heat. High, barren peaks regularly freeze and receive snow in winter. Cool onshore breezes sweep coastal terraces, while the sun beats down on arid south-facing slopes. Though visitors may complain about a lack of defined seasons along the coast, locals know Big Sur is markedly different and beautiful each season.