Golden Valley
Map SatelliteVegetation in Golden Valley, a small valley in the Lava Mountains, is primarily a creosote bush scrub, with Larrea tridentata dominant. Also present in some abundance is silver cholla, Opuntia echinocarpa.
Of particular note are the extensive desert wild-flower displays following the rainy season. Among the species present are Phacelia tanacetifolia, Phacelia distans, Phacelia fremontii, Salvia columbariae, Salvia carduacea, Caulanthus inflatus, Malacothrix spp., Chaenactis spp. and non-native Erodium cicutarium.
The fauna is typical of the region.
A number of Pliocene mammalian fossils, particularly horses and camel, have been found here.
Integrity: There is a trail in the area but most of the valley is virtually pristine.
Use: Research, educational, observational.
July 1982
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman
