California's Central Valley is a large, flat region in the heart of California, stretching approximately 450 miles from north to south. It is bordered by the Sierra Nevada mountains to the east and the Coast Ranges to the west. The valley is known for its fertile soil and is one of the most productive agricultural areas in the United States, growing a variety of crops such as grapes, almonds, and tomatoes. The Central Valley is divided into two main sections: the Sacramento Valley in the north and the San Joaquin Valley in the south. Major cities in the region include Fresno, Bakersfield, and Stockton. The valley's climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it ideal for farming and agriculture.