Owens Peak Wilderness Area (Short Canyon)

Description:

The majority of this wilderness is composed of the rugged eastern faces of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Owens Peak, the high point of the southern Sierra Nevadas, rises to more than 8,400 feet. The mountainous terrain has deep, winding, open and expansive canyons, many of which contain springs with extensive riparian vegetation. Vegetation varies considerably within the site, with a creosote desert scrub community on the bajadas, scattered yuccas, cacti, annuals, cottonwood, and oak trees in the canyons and valleys, and a juniper-pi*on woodland with sagebrush and digger/grey pine on the upper elevations. Wildlife includes mule deer, golden eagle, and prairie falcon.

Directions:

The Owens Peak Wilderness is located in Kern, Tulare and Inyo Counties, approximately 15.0 miles northwest of Ridgecrest, California. Access from the south via Canebrake Road (part of the Chimney Peak Back Country Byway), off SR 178. Also from the east via US 395 north of Inyokern, along 4-wheel drive recommended routes into Indian Wells Canyon, Short Canyon, Sand Canyon, and No Name Canyon. From the north access is via US 395 north of Inyokern along Ninemile Canyon Road.

Address:

300 South Richmond Road

Ridgecrest CA 93555

Phone:

760-384-5400

Email:

lpederse@ca.blm.gov

Organization:

BLM - Bureau of Land Management