Lodgepole Pine

Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta) is a somewhat shorter lived pine tree native to Idaho. One interesting fact about this species is that its cones will stay on the tree and tightly closed until the heat of fire causes them to open. For this reason, lodgepole pine tree stands will be the first to come back after a burn. The trunk of the lodgepole is usually small, straight, and holds its diameter well with minimal taper. For this reason the native populations prized it for teepee supports and travois poles. Today it is still used often in round-wood applications; such as rails, logs homes, log furniture, etc. The wood of the lodgepole pine is similar to others of the pine species, and its small, tight knots make it a good choice for paneling and other visual products.