Site Visit to Newfound Gap Parking Area

These pictures are taken from the Newfound Gap Parking Area in the autumn.  Unlike Chimney Tops Overlook, Newfound Gap Parking Area is dominated by slower growing, coniferous trees and a much shorter growing season. Spruce and Fir trees at the top of the overlook do not obscure the view and the lower vegetation is much shorter and easier to manage.

However, there are deciduous trees near the top of the vista that might obscure the view in the future.  This picture shows the view from the interpretive sign at the overlook.  The sign is titled "Land of Diversity", which describes the variety of vegetation that can be seen from this point.

This picture shows how the top of the deciduous treeline has not impacted the vista but could potentially block the view of the ridge line within a the next few years.  The coniferous treeline is further back, and even though the trees are close to mature height they still successfully frame the lower edge of the view.

The coniferous treeline provide a beautiful deep green contrast against the purplish mountain ridge and the light blue mountains in the horizon.