Coyote Wash (California) facts for kids

Coyote Wash is a special kind of stream in California. It's called an arroyo, which means it's often a dry creek bed. It's also an ephemeral stream. This means it only flows with water after it rains a lot.

This wash starts in the Jacumba Mountains. It flows east through a place called Coyote Wells. Here, it gets wider and becomes a big sandy area. Other smaller washes and creeks join it, like Myer Creek, South Fork Coyote Wash, and Palm Canyon Wash.

Coyote Wash passes by Sackett's Wells. It also flows near Plaster City. Finally, it reaches the Yuha Desert in Imperial County, California. The wash ends by sinking into the sands west of the New River, below sea level.

A Bit of History: Sackett's Wells

Sackett's Wells was a very important spot on Coyote Wash. It was a well, which is a place where people could get water. This well was located on a famous path called the Southern Emigrant Trail.

What Was the Southern Emigrant Trail?

The Southern Emigrant Trail was a long route that pioneers and travelers used. It helped them cross the desert from the Colorado River to the coast of Southern California. Imagine traveling across a hot, dry desert! Water stops like Sackett's Wells were absolutely vital.

Why Was Sackett's Wells Important?

Sackett's Wells became a station for the Butterfield Overland Mail. This was an old mail delivery service that used stagecoaches. The station was set up to provide fresh water for travelers and to change out tired horses for new ones. It was a perfect halfway point in the desert part of the journey. This made it a crucial resting and resupply spot for people traveling across the tough desert.