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Chihuahuan Desert grassland and yucca, in association with a mosaic of other desert shrubs such as creosote, acacia, and mesquite, make up the majority of the plant cover in the area. Occasional juniper trees are also found on mountain slopes and in larger drainages. The limestone substrate provides habitat for a wide diversity of cacti, and sandy areas likely contain populations of the State-endangered sand prickley pear, Opuntia arenaria, a special status species. Summer monsoon rains bring extensive stands of wildflowers in this area including white and yellow desert zinnias, desert marigolds, blackfoot daisies, globe mallow, pepperweed, desert sunflowers, Chihuahuan flax, and summer poppy. Unusually large specimens of barrel cactus also live in this area.
Raptors are common, especially during the winter. Golden eagles, great-horned owls, and Swainson’s hawks nest here, and peregrine falcons have also been reported. Other species that forage and live in the area include pronghorn, mule deer, quail, and jackrabbits.
Evidence of pre-Columbian Indian habitation exists in caves in the East Potrillo Mountains. A Classic Mimbres Pueblo located in the region has the highest concentration of bird bones of any known Mimbres site.
Location
The south part of the Greater Potrillo Mountains complex is easily reached by Highway 9 that goes from Santa Teresa to Columbus along the border with Mexico. From I-10 exit #8 in Texas, head west toward the border crossing on Highway 136. Just north of the border, about 9½ miles southwest of the interstate exit, turn west on Highway 9. In 16½ miles, CR A008 comes in on the north. This road forms the eastern boundary of the East Potrillo Mountains unit.
Maps
Digital and paper maps are critical tools for wilderness visitors. Online maps can help you plan and prepare for your visit ahead of time. You can also carry digital maps with you on your GPS unit or other handheld GPS device. Having a paper map with you in the backcountry, as well as solid orienteering skills, however, ensures that you can still route-find in the event that your electronic device fails.
Online Maps
Printed Maps
Management & Regulations
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited in all wilderness areas.
This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters.
Wilderness-Specific Regulations
Learn more about
why regulations may be necessary in wilderness.
Applicable Wilderness Law(s)
Date: March 12, 2019
Acreage: 12,155 acres
John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act - Public law 116-9 (3/12/3019) To provide for the management of the natural resources of the United States, and for other purposes.
For more information (To download or see all affected Wilderness areas) visit our law library for 116-9 or special provisions for 116-9 or legislative history for 116-9 for this law.
Want to Volunteer for Wilderness?
Citizens who volunteer their time to steward our wilderness areas are an essential part of wilderness management. Contact the following groups to inquire about volunteer opportunities.