Cottonwood Creek (Inyo County, California) facts for kids

Cottonwood Creek is a special stream in eastern California. It starts high up in the White Mountains, a range known for its ancient bristlecone pine trees. The creek flows for about 21.5 miles (34.6 km).

As it travels, Cottonwood Creek passes through different types of forests. You can see tall bristlecone pine trees, beautiful aspen groves, and mountain mahogany. Lower down, it flows through woodlands of pinyon pine and juniper trees. Finally, the creek reaches a sagebrush desert and ends in Fish Lake Valley. This valley is a "closed basin," meaning its water doesn't flow out to the ocean. It's part of the larger Great Basin area.

A Home for Rare Fish

Cottonwood Creek is very important for a special fish called the Paiute cutthroat trout. This trout is one of the rarest fish in all of North America. It is considered a threatened species, which means it's at risk of disappearing forever.

• The Paiute cutthroat trout was moved to the North Fork of Cottonwood Creek to help protect it. Its original home was a very small area in Silver King Creek.
• Other types of trout, like brook, brown, and rainbow trout, also live in the creek. These were brought here from other places.

Nature Along the Creek

The area around Cottonwood Creek is full of life. It's a great place for many different animals and plants.

Plants and Trees

The creek starts in high mountains with ancient bristlecone pine forests. These trees are some of the oldest living things on Earth! As the creek flows downhill, you'll see:

• Groves of aspen trees, especially in the higher parts.
• Stands of bristlecone pine and mountain mahogany.
• Lower down, there are woodlands with pinyon pine and juniper trees.
• The creek eventually flows into a sagebrush desert.
• Many springs feed the creek, and it winds through large meadows in its upper sections.

Birds and Wildlife

More than 70 different kinds of birds live near Cottonwood Creek. The plants along the creek, like willows and cottonwood trees, provide a safe home for many birds. Some of the protected bird species you might see include:

• Yellow Warbler
• Yellow-Breasted Chat
• Prairie Falcon
• Cooper's Hawk

Fun Things to Do

Cottonwood Creek offers many ways to enjoy nature. People can visit to see the unique trees, spot rare birds, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery. The Bureau of Land Management helps to take care of this special river.