San Juan Valley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids San Juan Valley |
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 San Juan Valley
Location in California
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| Naming | |
| Native name | Error {{native name}}: an IETF language tag as parameter {{{1}}} is required (help) |
| Geography | |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Region | San Benito County |
The San Juan Valley, also known as the San Benito Valley, is a long, flat area of land in California, United States. In the past, it was called Canada de San Benito or Llano De San Juan. This valley is an important part of the landscape in San Benito County.
The valley begins near the Gabilan Range of mountains. To the north, it is bordered by the Lomerias Muertas and the Flint Hills. To the south and east, it is again bordered by the Gabilan Range. The San Benito River flows into the valley from the east through a gap in the mountains. The valley ends where the San Benito River joins the Pajaro River. This meeting point is about 15 miles (24 km) upstream from where the Pajaro River flows into Monterey Bay. The San Juan Valley is the lowest part of the area drained by the San Benito River, making it a key part of the larger San Benito Valley.
Why is it called San Juan Valley?
The valley gets its name from the Mission San Juan Bautista. This historic mission was built and established right in this valley. Missions were important settlements built by Spanish missionaries in California many years ago. They often became centers for towns and farming.
