The Salton Sea is a large, saltwater lake in southern California that lies below sea level and is fed by agricultural runoff and the New River. In the Salton Sea watershed, there are ten wetland areas, known as the Wash 10, which provide important habitat for wildlife and support critical ecosystem functions. Visitors to the Wash 10 can experience some of the most unique and diverse landscapes in California, from the lush vegetation of the Sonoran Desert to the stark and surreal beauty of the Salton Sea.
There are several good reasons to visit the Wash 10, including birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the area's unique geological features. The Salton Sea is home to hundreds of species of birds, including rare and endangered species like the Yuma clapper rail, black rail, and southwestern willow flycatcher. The wetlands of the Wash 10 also provide important habitat for a variety of other wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and bobcats. In addition to wildlife, visitors can also explore the natural beauty of the area, including the Salton Sea's stunning sunsets and the otherworldly landscape of the Sonoran Desert.