The soil contains gypsum deposits, which dissolve and form caves. Arroyos, common in the desert, sometimes funnel rainfall into torrents of flash floods. But as the waters subside, water trapped in rock pools provides drinking water for animals such as the javelina. These areas serve as a transition zone between the desert and mountains. Snowfall in winter produces moisture and food for the gray fox, badger, porcupine and the Mexican wolf.
Mule deer can live in most parts of the desert, as can prairie dogs, a favorite of young visitors.
Don't miss the rattlesnakes and the Gila monster who also live here. The trail passes by habitats of bison, pronghorn, mule dear and the majestic elk.