California's Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada is a vast mountain range in eastern California and western Nevada, renowned for its striking peaks, including Mount Whitney, the highest in the contiguous U.S. It spans roughly 400 miles and features diverse landscapes such as alpine lakes, dense forests, and rugged granite formations. The range influences regional climate and water supply, with many rivers originating here. It's home to national parks like Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon, attracting millions for recreation and conservation. The Sierra Nevada plays a vital ecological and hydrological role, supporting diverse plant and animal life while shaping California’s environmental landscape.