I live my life on the edge, bro. This Pinyon pine (Pinus edulis) is growing out of limestone rock along the rim of Grand Canyon and is subjected to a harsher environment than its neighbors in nearby forested areas. Here, along the rim, frequent high winds and a scarcity of topsoil and water make survival more challenging. However, the root system of a small tree like this can be enormous, reaching down into the rock cracks and fissures, making it possible for the tree to harvest the water it needs to survive. This 5 foot (1.5 m) wide pine may be 80 to 200 years old. Trees of the same age growing in forested areas often grow as tall as 30 ft. (9 m) Do not imitate this tree. People should always remain at least 6 feet from cliff edges. Image: Don’t look down! A pinyon pine extends precariously over the canyon edge at grandcanyonnps. #Arizona #GrandCanyon #GrandCanyonNationalPark #livingontheedge #treesofinstagram #pinyonpine