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Map Satellite This large area, which lies between the Sierra crest and the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River between Agnew Meadows and Red Cones, contains an excellent stand of virgin red fir, Abies magnifica, some of which are 2 meters (6 feet) in diameter. Though these are the most conspicuous, Western white, lodge-pole and Jeffrey pines, Pinus monticola, Pinus contorta ssp. murrayana and Pinus jeffreyi, as well as mountain hemlock, Tsuga mertensiana, are abundant. The rare Lupinus argenteus var. heteranthus is found just outside the area and may occur within it.
As the area is not too disturbed, there is a wide range of mid to high Sierra-altitude animal life. The ranges of the wolverine, Gulo luscus, and marten, Martes americana, extend into this area, and may still occur here.
The geology of the area is complex and includes both Mesozoic granitics of the Sierra batholith and metavolcanics which may date to the early Jurassic or even to the Permian. Additionally, there is a considerable amount of Pleistocene and, in the Red Cones area, Recent volcanic rocks. There is also evidence of glaciers. The Devils Postpile National Monument lies within the area.
Integrity: Several roads, one leading to the National Monument, campsites, a store, buildings and trails are found in portions of the area; however, most of it is virtually undisturbed.
Use: Research, educational, observational, light recreation.
July 1976
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2008 Steven Louis Hartman
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