Tree Walks & Talks: Sky Island, Trees From Another Time

Ever notice trees while you’re out and about and wish you knew more about them? Join Elli Morris, a tree lover with a Master of Forestry and extensive training in post-disturbance forest restoration, for SJMA’s new Tree Walks & Talks interpretive series. These wanderings will focus on site-specific trees and our relationship with them. From fire adaptations to tree architecture to internal antifreeze, appreciating trees can make any hike more enjoyable. Come be impressed not just with tree intelligence but the role trees play in our lives – and the roles we play in theirs.

Sky Island, Trees From Another Time

If you could only survive in cold weather, how would you cross a hot valley to get to a nearby mountaintop? You might not! Some tree species are ‘trapped’ in the La Platas. How do they respond? We’ll look at tree adaptations, and hopefully see some gorgeous fall colors to boot! Vanpool with SJMA (space dependent) or meet at the parking lot at the entrance of La Plata Canyon.

When: September 19 , 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Where: Meet at the La Plata Canyon Road parking area

What to Bring:

• Plenty of water, snacks or lunch
• Hat, sunscreen, weather-appropriate layers
• Walking shoes

Cost: Free! A $10 donation is appreciated to support our public programs.

Registration Required: Space is limited to 10 attendees

Elli Morris received her Master of Forestry from NAU in 2022, receiving extensive training in post-disturbance forest restoration. She’s a member of the La Plata County Tree Study Group. Elli’s biggest intrigue with trees is learning (and sharing) the multitude of skills trees employ for thriving in their habitat. She cannot recall how many trees she’s climbed but for sure she has a photo of at least one tree from the 60 countries and territories she’s visited.