Acres and Acres of Forests
The area around Lake Shikotsu is covered with dense, verdant forests. Most of the trees at the lower levels are deciduous (leaf-bearing) species such as Ezo spruce, Sakhalin fir, Mongolian oak, and Japanese elm. At higher altitudes grow more conifers (evergreens), meaning the area appears green throughout the year. The only areas conspicuously devoid of this greenery are the more active volcanoes, which are known for having low tree lines. Mount Tarumae, just south of Lake Shikotsu, has been active for centuries, and its tree line is a low 600 meters, above which little vegetation is found.