Whitewater Preserve via the Outlet Mall

After a morning of coffee, dark chocolate almonds clusters, and the latest current events via our smart devices, my folks and I headed for Whitewater Preserve. The canyon, managed by The Wildlands Conservancy, is conveniently located off Interstate 10 close to the Highway 111 exit to Palm Springs. It is a favorite destination for its beauty and close proximity. Last year we were treated to a super bloom of yellow California Brittlebush (see Whitewater Preserve from 2017), but weren't sure what to expect this year.

Welcoming trail heading up the canyon

Whitewater Preserve picnic grounds with cottonwood trees

Exploring Whitewater Preserve

The day was cool and beautiful, and the air swept clean from the recent stiff breezes. The cottonwood trees in the picnic area hadn't leafed out yet. We've been grateful for their deep cool shade over the years as we've eaten our lunch or rested after a hike in the hot sun.

Intrepid hiker

River crossing

Dad walked up the trail, while Mom and I headed for the river. The Whitewater River changes course every year, and this year it was right up next to the cliffs It was fairly full of water, so we were grateful for bridges.

Whitewater River

We saw few flowers this year, in contrast with the super bloom last year. We saw an occasional Brittlebush or Bladderpod in bloom, but that's about it. However, the willows and shrubs were green from recent rains, and the San Jacinto and San Gorgonio mountains were snow topped and visible in the distance from various vantage points.

Borrego sheep (expand the picture, and follow the ridge line to the white specs)

The real treat was watching a herd of 16-17 Borregos grazing up on the hillside. We spotted a couple of mothers with lambs and the Big Daddy keeping watch. We enjoyed our unhurried ramble in the Preserve, but you can also follow the 3.6 mile Whitewater Canyon Loop trail for a more comprehensive hike (see AllTrails for details).

Desert Hills Premium Outlet Mall near Cabazon

We squeezed in a quick stop at the Desert Hills Premium Outlet Mall (right on the way) for a brief shopping spree at Carter's/Oshkosh (spring wardrobe for the new baby - see Holiday Memories from Seattle) and Coach Outlet (a new purse). And then ended the day with delicious dinner, pie, and conversation at Polly's Pies (according to Dad's app, we walked 6,197 steps), and an episode of the Danish political drama, Borgen, on DVD. I love the kind of day that spans shopping at favorite stores to hiking in a wild preserve with Borregos. A great day!

The spoils of our shopping trip