Ch. 13 The Intermontane West

The Central Valley of California, although close in proximity to The Intermontane West, do not share many similarities. The Intermontane West hosts dramatic scenery, colorful history, and natural wonders. While most people think the majority of the Central Valley is somewhat of an eyesore.....and terribly smelly. 

The major difference between the Intermontane West and the Central Valley is the major economic activity of tourism. The Central Valley does not boast tourism like the latter. 

Northwestern Wyoming is home to Yellowstone National Park, the world's first national park. Sun Valley, Idaho and Park City, Utah bring in thousands of winter sports enthusiasts to their world renowned ski resorts. Biggest of all, Nevada hosts the incredibly profitable cities of Reno and Las Vegas that boasts legal gambling, which got the state of Nevada out of crippling debt.

In both the Intermontane West and California's Central Valley they share the precious resource of water from The Colorado River. Both constantly fight over this hot commodity for vital reasons. This river gives life to many, as drinking water and irrigation water. 

Settlement of Native Americans and First Nations was prevalent in The Intermontane West. Which is similar to The Central Valley.

 There is not much to look at during your drives in the Central Valley.