Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada is a mountain range located in the western United States, primarily in the state of California, with a small portion extending into Nevada. The name “Sierra Nevada” translates from Spanish to “snowy mountain range,” reflecting the snow-capped peaks that characterize the range, particularly in the colder months. Stretching approximately 400 miles (640 kilometers) from north to south, the Sierra Nevada includes notable features such as Lake Tahoe, Mount Whitney (the highest peak in the contiguous United States), and several national parks, including Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park. The range is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, dramatic landscapes, and widespread wilderness areas, making it a significant area for outdoor recreation, conservation, and biodiversity. The Sierra Nevada is also an important source of water for California’s agriculture and urban areas, as its snowpack feeds rivers and reservoirs in the region.