Wildlife Corridor • Threatened Species Habitat • Trails Access

Snow melt from Mt. San Gorgonio feeds the Whitewater River as it flows toward the desert floor, providing an important water supply for native wildlife and contributing to our underground water supply. Spectacular Whitewater Canyon is part of the critical wildlife corridor that lets animals move between the San Bernardino Mountains and the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains, past the daunting barrier of the I-10 freeway. To see San Jacinto - San Bernardino Mountains Linkage: click here.

In addition, the Whitewater River's streamside habitat is home to threatened and endangered plant and animal species, including the least Bell’s vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, triple-ribbed milkvetch, and the arroyo toad.  Acquisitions in this area also target a section of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail and recreational trails access to the San Gorgonio Wilderness.

 Key lands already preserved: