The flowers of the sub-alpine meadows have been well publicized. But little of the floral beauty of the lower wooded slopes have become generally known. Yet it is true that the plants of these localities are as interesting as the more widely known glories of the sub-alpine regions at the height of color and diversity in July and August.

Short walks along the trails in the vicinity of the Nisqually Entrance reveals the beautiful Lady Slipper (Calypso bulbosa) which is the most interesting member of the orchid family native to the park. This plant alone makes worth while a few moments pause at the entrance before continuing on to Longmire and Paradise. Open patches on the forest floor beneath the great firs, hemlocks and cedars which add so much beauty to the park's lower elevations are clothed with masses of Wood Sorrell (Oxalis oregona). The foliage of this plant so closely resembled that of clover that, unless one is aware of the similarity, it will often be mistaken for the clover. But the flowers quickly reveal it as not being remotely related with that more common plant. The Pink Corydalis (Corydalis scouleri), by its foliage gives evidence of its relationship with the familiar Bleeding Heart. It is a tall plant, growing upon succulent stems and one characteristic of the densely shaded forests. Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) is also common in places at this time - even, in some cases, having its fruit well along toward the way of maturity.