Phoenix to California: You're Heading West

Phoenix, Arizona's capital, sits at ~112°W longitude. California's eastern border runs ~114°W (Colorado River) to ~124°W (coast). Any route from Phoenix to California travels west—typically west-southwest (I-10 to LA/San Diego) or west-northwest (US-93 → I-40 → I-15 to Vegas/Inland Empire).

Major Routes & Distances

What Changes?

• Time zone: Arizona (MST, no DST) → California (PT, observes DST). Spring–fall: same clock. Winter: CA 1 hr behind.
• Elevation: Phoenix (1,086 ft) → Colorado River (~450 ft) → CA deserts → coastal plain.
• Border: Agricultural inspection (I-10, I-40, I-15) — stop for produce/plants.

Simple: West. The only question is which west.