Inyo Mountains Wilderness

The Inyo Mountains Wilderness is a remote and rugged area located in eastern California. The wilderness area covers over 76,000 acres and includes several distinct mountain ranges, canyons, and valleys. The Inyo Mountains are known for their unique geology, diverse flora and fauna, and rich human history. In this article, we will explore some of the highlights of the Inyo Mountains Wilderness.

Geology and Formation

The Inyo Mountains are part of the Basin and Range Province, a region of the western United States known for its complex geology and diverse landscapes. The mountains were formed through a process of faulting and uplift that began around 20 million years ago.

The Inyo Mountains are notable for their unique geology, which includes several different types of rock formations, including volcanic rocks, sedimentary rocks, and granitic rocks. The mountains are also home to several unique geological features, including the Saline Valley Salt Tram, which was used to transport salt from the valley floor to the mountain ridges in the early 1900s.

Flora and Fauna

Despite its remote location, the Inyo Mountains Wilderness is home to a surprisingly diverse array of plant and animal life. The area is home to over 400 species of plants, including several rare and endemic species that are found nowhere else in the world.

The Inyo Mountains are also home to several species of wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, and several species of birds, including golden eagles and prairie falcons.

One of the most unique habitats in the Inyo Mountains is the saline valley, which is home to several species of salt-tolerant plants, including pickleweed and saltgrass. The saline valley is also home to several species of insects and birds that are adapted to the harsh conditions of the salt flats.

Hiking and Backpacking

For visitors who want to explore the Inyo Mountains Wilderness up close, the area offers several hiking and backpacking opportunities. The wilderness area is home to several established trails, ranging from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day backpacking trips.

One of the most popular hikes in the area is the Cerro Gordo Trail, which is a 4.4-mile trail that leads to the historic mining town of Cerro Gordo. Along the way, hikers can see several historic structures, including an old mining bunkhouse and a cemetery.

For more experienced hikers, the Inyo Mountains offer several challenging backpacking routes, including the Onion Valley to Whitney Portal route, which is a 70-mile route that takes hikers through some of the most remote and rugged areas of the Inyo Mountains.

Human History

The Inyo Mountains Wilderness has a rich human history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by the Owens Valley Paiute people, who relied on the area’s natural resources for food, water, and shelter.

In the late 1800s, the area experienced a boom in mining activity, with several large silver and lead mines operating in the region. The town of Cerro Gordo, which was established in 1865, became one of the most prosperous mining towns in the area, with a population of over 4,000 people at its peak.

Today, visitors to the Inyo Mountains Wilderness can see several historic structures and mining sites, including the Cerro Gordo mining town, the Keeler mining district, and the Swansea ghost town.

The Inyo Mountains Wilderness is a rugged and remote area that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the geological, biological, and human history of the region. With its diverse plant and animal life, challenging hiking and backpacking routes, and rich human history, the Inyo Mountains Wilderness is a must-visit destination