Exploring an oasis close to campus Written by: Misty Severi Photographed by: Hayden Schuljak Designed by: Joseph Smallwood
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ature has been the inspiration behind many of the world’s greatest poets, artists and thinkers. From Alfred, Lord Tennyson to William Wordsworth, it has inspired many great minds to remember there is beauty in a world that can seem to hold none. The Inland Empire has a hidden gem of which many residents may not be aware — Whitewater Preserve. Located approximately an hour from Riverside in Whitewater, California, the preserve sits on 2,851 acres and is home to guests ranging from big horn sheep to beautiful birds. This canyon winds through Mount San Gorgonio, Southern California’s largest mountain, and offers
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visitors an escape from the mundane traffic and stress of day-to-day life. The preserve showcases the beautiful whitewater river that flows year-round from San Bernardino County down through west Riverside County. The preserve also features trails that lead hikers up the famous Pacific Crest Trail and beautiful ponds that are perfect for photography. Guests who visit the preserve find themselves immersed in some of nature’s quiet beauty in this beautiful habitat of animals, plants and insects. Jack Thompson, regional director of The Wildlands Conservancy's Desert Preserves, says the area is something of which everyone should
