236° C. C. Parry: Physiographical Sketch. 
Farther observation will be required, to show how far the 
accumulated snows of winter may offer obstructions to a through 
route, accessible at all seasons. The practical difficulties iter 
sed by the steep ascent of the main abrupt slope can no doubt 
be readily overcome, by the construction of embankments and 
zigzags. When the principal height is once gained, farther pro 
gress is easy in either direction, by the usual appliances of road 
construction, for which the proper materials of stone and lumber 
are abundant, and of excellent quality. 
he westward view takes in that irregular scope of country, 
including Middle Park, with its broad open spaces, encircled by 
broken ranges of mountains. 
ese mountains send down into the plain below, numerous 
spurs, heavily timbered with a magnificent growth of spruce, 
(Abies alba). Between these ridges, deeply sheltered valleys 
collect the tributary streams, forming the head waters 0 yn 
iver. The projecting mountain peaks on this side do 2 
attain the height of those met with on the eastern slope, but 
general surface is more elevated; the lowest depressions, occur 
ring in the basin of Middle Park, being considerably higher than 
corresponding points on the great plains to the eastward. ve 
the streams are less rapid, and the vegetation indicates a C0 
and more humid climate. oni 
Here during the rainy season, in the months of July 
i ise to 
’ . 
variable 
a rapid development of clouds and aqueous precipitation). such 
as characterizes the sudden showers in this peculiar district 
Here in fact may be studied to the best advantage, (though 
always under agreeable circumstances), the formation of clo 2. 
in their endless variety of shape, density, and progressive s 
opment. ese at times may be seen gradually accumu ating 
about the summits of snow covered peaks, thence spre") 
over the horizon and extending to the zenith, causing 4 Te, 
steady rain; while at other times a sudden gust calls ae 
tion to a rapidly forming angry cloud, which sweeps Over” 
surface in a well defined path, scattering rain, hail, or sn0W 
its wake. aster 
The regular afternoon showers which occur on the @ of 
slope are readily explained by referring them to the junction” 
heated air, charged with moisture, ascending from the & wy 
plains, with the descending currents of cold air from the sn? As 
range, by which the moisture of the former is precipitated. and & 
soon as the equilibrium is established, the rain passes pa by 
clear succeeds, followed almost invariably 
and es mornings. This series of phe day 0 
ng with remarkable regularity from one 44Y 
sky more o 
