Morongo Valley, CA
By Lynne Tucker
Nestled among the Little San Bernardino Mountains in the Sand to Snow National Monument, the desert oasis at Big Morongo Canyon is one of the 10 largest cottonwood and willow riparian habitats in California. The upstream end of the canyon lies in the Mojave Desert, while its downstream portion opens into the Colorado Desert. There are numerous trails to walk and hike, including a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk through the marsh and riparian habitats. At 31,000 acres with elevations ranging from 600 feet on the canyon floor to 3000 feet at the top of the ridge, this diverse landscape has been an important part of the Morongo Basin’s natural and cultural history for almost two billion years.
The Preserve is managed by the Bureau of Land Management with the assistance of Friends of Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity. Friends of Big Morongo Canyon Preserve is dedicated to the exploration, preservation, and stewardship of the Preserve by protecting and managing its resources, and by providing educational programs, access for wildlife viewing, and recreational opportunities for the enjoyment of its visitors.
Hours & Admission
The Preserve is open daily throughout the year–from 7:30 am to sunset–but the ideal months to visit are in the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
Admission is free but donations are welcomed
For more information visit:
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