Forests

This national park protects extensive forest ecosystems encompassing diverse woodland types from dense coniferous taiga to mixed deciduous groves that showcase the region's rich natural heritage. Ancient trees dominate the landscape, with old-growth stands providing critical habitat for numerous wildlife species including large carnivores, ungulates, and forest-dependent birds. The protected forests serve vital watershed functions, with pristine rivers and streams originating in the woodland headwaters providing clean water for downstream communities. Seasonal transformations bring spectacular changes, from spring wildflower displays through summer's lush canopy to autumn's brilliant foliage and winter's snow-draped silence.

The park was established to preserve representative forest ecosystems threatened by intensive logging and land conversion that had eliminated most pristine woodlands in surrounding regions. Indigenous communities maintained sustainable relationships with these forests for millennia, utilizing resources through traditional practices that allowed ecosystem persistence. Commercial exploitation intensified with industrial development, bringing mechanized logging operations that removed vast areas of old-growth forest. Scientific documentation of the remaining pristine forests' ecological importance motivated conservation advocacy that ultimately achieved protective designation. The park's creation balanced preservation objectives with recognition of traditional use rights and sustainable forestry in buffer zones.

Visitor facilities include headquarters buildings and information centers providing orientation to park ecosystems and recreational opportunities available to the public. Trail networks traverse representative forest types, with routes ranging from accessible nature walks to challenging backcountry expeditions requiring wilderness skills. Camping facilities at designated sites accommodate overnight visitors, while some trails feature basic shelters for multi-day treks. The park permits recreational activities including wildlife observation, photography, fishing in designated waters, and berry gathering in appropriate seasons. Educational programs operate during peak visitation periods, with guided nature walks explaining forest ecology and conservation efforts. Winter recreation includes cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on maintained trail systems.

Conservation programs prioritize protection of old-growth forest stands that provide irreplaceable habitat values including large trees, standing snags, and downed woody material essential for numerous species. Wildlife monitoring tracks populations of indicator species including large carnivores and cavity-nesting birds, providing data for adaptive management decisions. Watershed protection initiatives maintain forest cover in headwater areas, preventing erosion and ensuring water quality for downstream users. The park's fire management programs balance suppression of human-caused ignitions with recognition of fire's ecological role in forest renewal. Climate adaptation strategies address shifting species distributions and altered disturbance regimes through science-based interventions. Community engagement involves local residents in conservation activities while providing economic benefits through sustainable tourism and regulated traditional resource harvesting.