Everyone knows rain is rare in the low deserts of the American Southwest, but Arizona’s Sonoran Desert is actually one of the “wetter” deserts out there with Phoenix averaging 8 inches of rain annually. Staggering figures, we know. In all seriousness, that is a fairly high amount as true deserts go, especially when you consider Death Valley in California’s Mojave Desert only averages 2 inches of rain annually. Show
Given those scarce numbers, there are two things even rarer than rain in the Sonoran Desert … accumulative snow and dense fog. You may be surprised to find that the latter is the hardest to come by, especially on a widespread scale. While temperatures drop low enough every few years to bring snow to the low deserts, the conditions needed for the formation of dense fog - temperatures reaching the dew point, calm winds and high humidity - don’t come together very often and therefore, dense fog advisories are almost never issued. So, when a dense fog advisory was issued for the Greater Phoenix Area on January 22, 2020 we got up before dawn and headed out to take advantage of this unique gift. The day prior saw unusual desert weather as well, in the form of a light, steady mist that fell all day in temperatures that never exceeded the low 50’s. This would be the catalyst for the fog event the following morning and it was one to see. To look out over a true desert scene filled with stands of towering saguaro cacti, their ghostly shapes peering through a thick blanket of fog, is a true paradox and one that is beautiful to witness. Needless to say, as soon as the sun broke through, the fog began to burn off in short order and just like that, it was gone. We have waited years for a weather event like this to unfold and as ephemeral as it was, it was every bit as magical as we could have imagined it to be. Well worth the wait! While Palm Springs is among the most popular cities in California for its rich history, incredible art and architecture and thriving nightlife and dining scene, there’s also plenty to do in the surrounding area. Take a trip up to the High Desert area to discover the many restaurants, golf clubs, parks and museums that can be found here. What Are The High Desert And Low Desert In California And Where Are They Located?The High Desert and Low Desert are informally bordered areas in California that are mostly a distinction known to locals of the area. High Desert (also known as Mojave Desert) is about 2,000 feet above sea level, and situated just north of the Low Desert (also known as the Sonoran Desert), which typically sits at about 500 feet above sea level. What Are The Main Differences Between High Desert and Low Desert In California?High Desert and Low Desert have a lot in common — vibrant art and food scenes flourish in both areas. But temperature wise, the High Desert is typically a windier, cooler area than the Low Desert, making it perfect for a trip to escape the heat during the hot summer months in Palm Springs. The Low Desert is also considered more of a resort area. Just look at the amount of swimming pools — there are an estimated 40,000 pools in the Palm Springs city limits alone! Folks in High Desert are often considered to be a little more rural and grounded than the resort style way of life that’s more common in Low Desert areas like Palm Springs. The Hollywood Connection of High DesertWhile many movie stars live in the Low Desert area of Palm Springs, lots of movies have been filmed in High Desert, with the Victorville area being a common filming spot for multiple big budget movies. It’s easy to see why, with so much incredible scenery around the area, with beautiful panoramic desert vistas and the backdrop of majestic mountains. Some areas of the High Desert even see snow due to the high elevation. Best Restaurants In High DesertTaking a quick hour and a half drive from Palm Springs is a small price to pay to experience some of the best restaurants in High Desert. Here are our quick picks of the top five restaurants you can find here. 1. Steer 'N SteinThis classic High Desert restaurant serves up steaks and beer in an unassuming, welcoming setting. 2. Goody’s Family RestaurantBe sure to get up early to check out Goody’s for some of the best breakfast food in the High Desert. 3. D’Vine Wine BarNo list of top five California restaurants is complete without a wine bar, so we’ve included this great try-to-buy wine bar with incredible food options such as paninis. 4. Apollo RestaurantIf you’re looking for an old school diner with delicious burgers, onion rings and other classic delectables, look no further than Apollo Restaurant. 5. High Desert Farmers’ MarketWhile not a typical restaurant per se, we had to add this experience to the list. Explore local vendors while munching on fresh produce and local fare. Looking to live less than two hours away from High Desert? Contact me, Geoffrey Moore. I'm your local Palm Springs real estate expert. Posted by on January 21st, 2022Related LinksPalm Springs Day Trip: Temecula Wine Tour Things To Do This Winter In Palm Springs (Updated for 2021) How to Plan the Perfect Weekend in Palm Springs FacebookShare this post on Facebook TwitterTweet this post on Twitter EmailSend a link to post via Email Leave A CommentWhat kind of desert is Phoenix in?Phoenix's stunning Sonoran Desert scenery sets it apart from every major city in the United States.
Is Phoenix Arizona considered a desert?Phoenix is located in the Sonoran Desert, a piece of land that covers approximately 100,000 square miles and includes most of the southern half of Arizona, Southeastern California, most of the Baja California peninsula, the Gulf of California, and a significant portion of Sonora, Mexico.
What is considered a High Desert?High Desert (also known as Mojave Desert) is about 2,000 feet above sea level, and situated just north of the Low Desert (also known as the Sonoran Desert), which typically sits at about 500 feet above sea level.
Which cities are in the Low Desert?The cities and towns in the Low Desert include:. Coachella Valley area. Bermuda Dunes. Cathedral City. Coachella. Desert Hot Springs. Indian Wells. Indio. La Quinta. Mecca. Palm Desert. Palm Springs. ... . Imperial Valley area. Brawley. Calexico. El Centro.. Lower Colorado River Valley area. Blythe. Palo Verde. Winterhaven.. Borrego Springs.. |
Is Phoenix High Desert or low desert?
Postagens relacionadas
direito autoral © 2024 cemle Inc.
