Palo Verde Mountains, Proposed Wilderness Additions

Bullock's Oriole in Octotillo, Palo Verde Mountains; © John Dittli

Size: Approximately 9,264 acres

Management Agency: Bureau of Land Mangement, El Centro Field Office

Location: Imperial County, west of Highway 78 between Palo Verde and Glamis.

Maps: BLM Desert Access Guide Midway Wells #21

Landscape and History

Palo Verde Peak and Thumb Peak are the most notable mountains in this area, but a variety of jagged mountains sprawl across the landscape. Between the slopes of the mountains lay dry washes that help create distinction for every unique butte, peak, and jagged rincon. The additions would extend protection to the lower elevations to the south of the existing wilderness.

Wildlife and Plants

These mountains provide habitat for Desert bighorn sheep, desert tortoise, wild burros, coyote, dove, quail, mountain lions, and diamondback rattlers. In lower elevations, Palo verde trees, mesquite, and ironwood can be found. Saguaro cactus, rarely seen in California, grow along the south eastern margin of the wilderness.

Activity Highlight

Hiking. Palo Verde Mountain summit offers a challenging and rewarding climb to advanced hikers. There are no established trails, so expect some rock scrambling. Views from the top look out across the Sonoran desert, the Colorado River, and into Arizona and Mexico.

For a less intense hike, try Clapp springs on the northern side of the wilderness. Only a mile from the wilderness boundary, this spring is reason enough to head out to the Palo Verde range. The springs are a unique oasis of fan palms and mesquite located in a picturesque open space. This is the only source of permanent water in the area and thus attracts visitors and native species alike. Keep your eye out for the fabled wild horse herd rumored to still roam the area and visit the springs for a drink.

For More Information

Monica Argandoña, Desert Program Director, California Wilderness Coalition
margandona@calwild.org | (951) 205 6004