Chuckwalla Mountains Wilderness

Description:

• Rising like an island from a vast sea of sand and rock are the Chuckwalla Mountains. Included within the walls of this rock fortress are a seemingly endless variety of landforms, textures and colors. Steep-walled canyons, inland valleys, large and small washes, isolated rock outcrops and vast desert expanses interact to form a constantly changing panorama. Plant and wildlife species are as uniquely diverse in this area. Bighorn sheep, burro, deer, raptors, snakes, coyotes and fox are just a few of the many creatures choosing the Chuckwalla Mountains as their home. The southwestern bajada region has been identified as highly crucial habitat for the desert tortoise. Ocotillo, cholla, yucca, creosote, and foxtail cactus cover the landscape.