The Great Basin is characterized by a series of tall mountain ranges separated by dry valleys or basins.

The Great Basin is primarily dominated by tall mountain ranges, such as the Sierra Nevada and the Wasatch Mountains, which run parallel to each other, creating a series of dry valleys between them. These mountain ranges contribute to the region's unique "basin and range" topography. The region is also known for its limited river systems and absence of major lakes that drain into the ocean, as it is an endorheic (closed) basin. This geographical feature, with its mountainous terrain, is a key characteristic of the Great Basin's landscape.