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Map Satellite Two large areas, separated by Mount San Jacinto State Park, constitute the San Jacinto Wilderness. The plant communities found within the wilderness range from lower Sonoran desert scrub and wash vegetation to a subalpine coniferous forest. Topographically, the two sections of the area are quite distinct. Much of the northern portion is on the escarpment of the mountain range and, with the exception of the lower portion of Snow Canyon, generally has steep slopes and almost sheer-sided canyons. In the southern section, though there are steep slopes, there is some relatively gentle country. There are a number of meadows in this section. The species of the various communities are similar to those of the State Park, with the mixed conifer forest covering most of the uplands. Three rare plants occur in the wilderness, Ivesia callida, Leptodactylon jaegeri and Castilleja lasiorhyncha. The rare bighorn sheep, Ovis canadensis, is occasionally sighted in the wilderness area. Integrity: In the southern section there are a number of trails and 7 developed campsites. The rugged northern section has very few trails and thus is less disturbed than the southern. Use: Research, educational, observational, light recreational. August 1976
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman
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