Transition Zone
Quick Summary
The Transition Zone, also known as the Central Highlands, is a physiographic region in Arizona, United States. It lies between the Colorado Plateau to the north and the Basin and Range Province to the south. This zone is characterized by a diverse landscape, including separated plateau blocks, rugged peaks, and rolling uplands.1
Climatically, the Transition Zone varies widely over short distances due to its varied relief. It represents an ecological border between the low deserts and the higher, forested elevations, blending elements of both. For instance, desert plants like the Spanish bayonet can be found alongside junipers typical of higher altitudes. Much of Arizona's humid area is located within this zone and the adjacent southern edge of the Colorado Plateau.21
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ArizonaReliefā¦broad valleys south through the Transition Zone and into the Basin and Range Province. The Transition Zone bordering the plateaus comprises separated plateau blocks, rugged peaks, and isolated rolling uplands so forbidding that they remained mostly unexplored until the late 19th century. The zone marks the ecological border between theā¦
Read Moreā¦broad valleys south through the Transition Zone and into the Basin and Range Province. The Transition Zone bordering the plateaus comprises separated plateau blocks, rugged peaks, and isolated rolling uplands so forbidding that they remained mostly unexplored until the late 19th century. The zone marks the ecological border between theā¦
Read More- ArizonaClimate of Arizona
ā¦diversity of relief within the Transition Zone, climatic conditions there vary widely over small areas. Much of Arizonaās humid area lies in this zone and in the adjacent high southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. There, perennial streams flowing through shaded riparian corridors contribute to atmospheric moisture, resulting in temperaturesā¦
Read Moreā¦diversity of relief within the Transition Zone, climatic conditions there vary widely over small areas. Much of Arizonaās humid area lies in this zone and in the adjacent high southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. There, perennial streams flowing through shaded riparian corridors contribute to atmospheric moisture, resulting in temperaturesā¦
Read More