This mountain range is entirely in California. Not to confuse with Sierra Nevada mountains in Spain and Colombia. Sierra Nevada means snow covered mountains in Spanish which is apt for both ranges.
It is spread across Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks. The John Muir Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in the region and passes through Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. Where as Yosemite Valley, with its towering granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome, is a world-famous destination for rock climbers and nature enthusiasts.
This range is also home to Mt Whitney, tallest mountain in continuous US along with General Sherman, the largest tree in the world by volume; Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America.
The Sierra Nevada offers a plethora of recreational activities, attracting outdoor enthusiasts. Ski resorts like Mammoth Mountain and Squaw Valley draw winter sports enthusiasts, while the summer months invite hikers, backpackers, and rock climbers to explore the scenic trails and granite peaks.
Range details
Location on Map:
Countries: US
Length: 640 km (400 mi)
Area: 102,594 km2 (39,612 sq mi)
Compare key features with other mountain ranges here.
Elevation
The highest point is Mt Rainier at 4,392 m (14,411 ft). Below chart displays the relative elevation of Cascades and Sierra Nevada mountains. Both the ranges are close geographically and also in their elevations.
One can visualize elevation differences with other ranges with this tool.
Highest peaks in Sierra Nevada
| Name | Elevation m (ft) | Prominence m (ft) | Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Whitney | 4,419 (14,498) | 3,072 (10,078) | USA |
| Mount Williamson | 4,381 (14,373) | 501 (1,643) | USA |
| North Palisade | 4,341 (14,242) | 882 (2,894) | USA |
Cities
Yosemite Valley: Yosemite National Park is home to iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. Yosemite Valley is a central hub within the park, providing access to numerous trails, waterfalls, and granite formations.
Tahoe City: Located on the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City serves as a gateway to trails in the northern part of the Sierra Nevada. It provides access to the Tahoe Rim Trail and various recreational activities.
Mammoth Lakes: Mammoth Lakes is a resort town known for its proximity to Mammoth Mountain and the Inyo National Forest. It’s an excellent base for exploring the eastern Sierra Nevada, including the Ansel Adams Wilderness and Devils Postpile National Monument.
Bishop: Located to the east of the Sierra Nevada, Bishop is a gateway to the high desert and mountainous terrain. It offers access to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest and the White Mountains.