Mesquite Hills facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mesquite Hills |
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 Location in California
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 1,201 ft (366 m) |
| Geography | |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Region | Mojave Desert |
| District | Mojave National Preserve, San Bernardino County |
| Range coordinates | 35°0′30.945″N 116°9′30.051″W / 35.00859583°N 116.15834750°W |
| Topo map | USGS Crucero Hill |
The Mesquite Hills are a small mountain range located in the Mojave Desert in southern California. These hills are found in San Bernardino County. They are a part of the vast Mojave National Preserve, which helps protect their unique desert environment.
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Exploring the Mesquite Hills
The Mesquite Hills might not be very tall, but they are an important part of the Mojave Desert landscape. Their highest point reaches about 1,201 feet (366 meters) above sea level. This area is known for its dry climate and special plants and animals that have adapted to desert life.
Where Are the Mesquite Hills?
You can find the Mesquite Hills in the eastern part of San Bernardino County. They are located within the Mojave National Preserve. This preserve is a large protected area. It helps keep the desert's natural beauty and wildlife safe for everyone to enjoy. The hills are quite remote, meaning they are far from big cities.
A Glimpse into History
The Mesquite Hills have an interesting past, especially because of an old railroad. They were once part of the route for the Tonopah and Tidewater Railroad. This railway line was very important many years ago. It helped transport goods and people across the desert.
The Tonopah and Tidewater Railroad
The Tonopah and Tidewater Railroad was built in the early 1900s. It connected places like Tonopah, Nevada, with Ludlow, California. The railroad played a big role in the mining industry. It moved minerals and supplies through the desert.
Crucero: A Railroad Stop
Within the Mesquite Hills, there was a small settlement called Crucero. This was a stop along the Tonopah and Tidewater Railroad line. Places like Crucero were vital for the railway. They provided water, fuel, and places for trains to stop. Today, you can still see traces of this old railroad history in the area.
Life in the Mojave Desert
The Mesquite Hills are a home for many desert creatures and plants. The Mojave Desert is known for its extreme temperatures. It can be very hot during the day and cold at night. Despite these conditions, life thrives here.
Desert Plants
You might see plants like the creosote bush and various types of cactus. The hills are named after the mesquite tree. These plants have special ways to survive with very little water. They often have deep roots or store water in their stems.
Desert Animals
Many animals live in the Mesquite Hills. You might spot lizards, snakes, and desert tortoises. Larger animals like coyotes and jackrabbits also call this area home. These animals are often most active during cooler times of the day or night. This helps them avoid the desert heat.
