Eastern California, Geographic region in California, United States
Eastern California stretches from the Sierra Nevada mountains to the state border and displays a mix of deserts, valleys, and high peaks. The region includes Death Valley, the Mojave Desert, vast mountain ranges, and deep canyons carved by water and time.
The California Gold Rush beginning in 1849 drew thousands of miners to the region, creating new settlements virtually overnight. This sudden influx reshaped the economic and social landscape, leaving permanent marks on the territory.
Native American heritage shaped settlement patterns across the region for thousands of years before European contact. Visitors can still see petroglyphs and artifacts at several locations that reflect how people adapted to life in this harsh landscape.
Bring plenty of water and emergency supplies when traveling through remote areas, as services and towns are spread far apart. Check your vehicle, fuel, and planned route before heading out into the backcountry.
Death Valley holds the record for the hottest temperature ever recorded in North America, documented at Furnace Creek in 1913. This extreme heat fascinates scientists and curious travelers who want to experience one of Earth's most unforgiving places.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
