In 1892, water for the town of Tropic was diverted into this once seasonal drainage, transforming Water Canyon into one of the fastest eroding areas of the park. Though nearby natural springs have long provided refuges for plants and animals, here erosion from the constant and rapid flow of water creates a demanding environment for new plants. Soil compacted by hikers creates additional challenges for life here. Bog orchids thrive in a wet habitat and are one of the few flowers pollinated by mosquitoes, with flowers usually seen June through August. Rabbitbrush and aster grow along the trail’s edge. Willows are found primarily on moist soil, and butterflies, ants, and bees feed on the leaves, bark, and flowers. Nootka Rose, a spring bloomer, is native to the western United States, and wild rose hip fruit, used as food and medicine, is high in vitamin C. Narrowleaf cottonwood trees thrive along streams in arid habitats, and their seeds are surrounded by a soft white fluff that looks like cotton.