Sonoran Desert - Lower Colorado Valley

Lower Colorado Valley floors are usually monotonous, but nearly every canyon and bajada is different. This rocky canyon in the Eagle Mountains near Hayfield Dry Lake has a nearly impenetrable forest of teddy bear cholla and barrel cactus. Adjacent canyons had few of either species. We can't explain these small-scale plant distributions.

You don't have to travel long distances to find such spectacular sights; this spot is less than 5 miles from Interstate 10.