Owens Valley

Owens Valley is a valley in California that runs at roughly 4,000 feet elevation between the Sierra Nevada to the west and the Inyo Mountains to the east. The landscape consists of dry flats, salt pans and scattered brush, while the peaks around it often carry snow.

The city of Los Angeles diverted water from the Owens River in the early 20th century to fuel growth in the metropolis. Owens Lake dried up by 1926, leaving a white salt bed that still marks the landscape today.

The valley takes its name from explorer Richard Owens and stretches more than 75 miles between towering mountain walls. Visitors driving through today see small ranching communities and roadside stops that recall the early frontier days.

The main highway through the valley runs north to south, connecting several small towns that serve as gateways for hikes into the surrounding ranges. Summers are very hot, while winter months are cooler and occasionally bring snow into lower areas.

The valley hosts a radio observatory that forms part of an international network observing distant galaxies. The facility uses the remote location and dry air to minimize interference from populated areas.