My journey to the Kennecott Mine was more than just a visit to a historic site. It was a journey into the past, a personal encounter with the spirit of perseverance that built the mine. It was a reminder of the audacity of human ambition, the power of determination, and the beauty of Alaska's wild frontier.

Pinecones from the Pinus coulteri, commonly known as the Coulter pine, are recognized as some of the heftiest and most substantial of all pine species. A Coulter pinecone can tip the scales at an impressive 11 pounds (5 kilograms) and can grow as long as 14 inches (35 centimeters). Due to their enormous size and significant weight, these pinecones have earned the moniker "widowmakers" as they pose a real hazard if they plummet from the tree. Apart from their enormous size, Coulter pinecones are also noteworthy for their robust, claw-like scales. Each scale has a curved, wickedly sharp spike at the end, which adds to the pinecone's overall weight and gives it a distinctive appearance. This unique feature is a defensive adaptation to deter animals from eating the seeds, thereby ensuring the tree's successful reproduction.

Take Advantage of the Pine Cone Season. Happy PineCone