An important true fir of Pacific Northwest middle elevation and lower subalpine forests, Pacific Silver Fir is one of the most common conifers at the Park. Old stands often have multi-aged trees, as this is a shade-tolerant species.

The cones are bluish-purple, turning brown, and resinous. As with other Abies species, the cones disintegrate at maturity, dispersing the seeds.

The trees can reach 180 feet in height but most are smaller. Old trees have shallow furrowed bark. The needles are green above and lined with two white bands below.