Miles from Tonopah, Nevada, a solitary home sits high on a bluff looking out over a semi-arid Ralston Valley. Nevada's Monitor Mountain Range dominates the sky line in the distance, with its highest peak at 8,600 feet. Although Nevada is mostly dry, this area's mountain range is able to capture some moisture, creating the Toiyabe National Forest. These residents enjoy an uncluttered view, solitude and a great satisfaction by living off the grid.
The Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountain Ranges have a huge effect on the climate in western United States. These high altitude mountains act as a barrier and virtually stop cloud borne moisture from traveling east, toward Nevada, and portions of Oregon and Idaho. While on the western side, California, Oregon and Washington States enjoy ample precipitation.