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Map Satellite One of the major drainages of the Santa Ana Mountains, this canyon supports several plant communities. Along the canyon floor is a good riparian growth, with sycamore, Platanus racemosa, big-leaf maple, Acer macrophyllum, which is nearing the southern limit of its range, and white alder, Alnus rhombifolia. A number of ferns are present. The canyon slopes, which are relatively gentle in most sections, are covered with chaparral. In the higher elevation there is a coniferous forest with Coulter pine, Pinus coulteri, and big-cone Douglas fir, Pseudotsuga macrocarpa. Animal life is typical of the region. Geologically, the canyon has cut through the sedimentary rocks of upper Jurassic marine origin. Integrity: There are several campgrounds and some summer cabins in the area, as well as jeep trails; however, the majority of the vegetation is generally in good condition. Use: Research, educational, observational, present. March 1977
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman
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