High Desert (California)

High Desert is a name used to define geographic areas of southern California deserts that are above 2,000 feet (609.9m), and below 4,000 feet (1219.2m) in altitude. The term "High Desert" is used commonly by the news media, especially in weather forecasts, because of the high desert's unique and moderate weather patterns compared to its low desert neighbors. High Desert has also been incorporated into the names of businesses and organizations in these areas. The term is used commonly to refer to Joshua Tree National Park, Twentynine Palms, and the Morongo Basin. However, the High Desert typically will be described as extending as far north as Victorville, California, and Lancaster areas, and as far northwest as Palmdale, and north to the Barstow, California desert and beyond. The term "High Desert" serves to differentiate it from southern California's Low Desert, which is defined by the differences in elevation, climate, animal life, and vegetation native to these regions. Comparison example: Palm Springs, California is considered Low Desert, at 100 feet (30.48m) above sea level. In contrast, Landers, California, is considered High Desert, at 3,100 feet (944.88m) above sea level.