Post #2 The Ponderosa Pine

Post # 2, The Ponderosa Pine, marks the second point of the Rankin Ridge Nature Trail.

NPS Photo / Anania Tekurio

Ponderosa pines trees dominate Rankin Ridge. As a drought resistant species, its extensive root system and limited need for water make it well suited to live in the Black Hills. On this arid slope with rocky soil, pines grow about four inches taller each year. Under ideal conditions a ponderosa pine can grow to more than 200 feet into the air. But here its needs are marginally met, so it seldom seems to deserve the adjective “ponderous,” meaning of great size.