Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada is a vast, rugged mountain range in Western North America, spanning California and Nevada. Known for _granite peaks like Mount Whitney, deep alpine lakes_, and extensive national parks, it offers some of the most dramatic high-country scenery and outdoor recreation in the continent.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Western US |
| Subregion | Western United States |
| Country | United States |
| State | CaliforniaNevada |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 37.5 |
| Longitude | -119.5 |
| Maps |
6:15 PM LOCAL TIMESierra Nevada forms one of the great bedrock-highs of North America, rising from the Great Basin and sinking into coastal Redwood forests on the west and arid high deserts on the east. It is characterized by granite peaks, deep glacial valleys, and long, high-elevation lakes. Major passes like Tioga Pass and Donner Summit connect California and Nevada, facilitating trans-Sierra travel. The range is home to iconic national parks such as Yosemite, Sequoia-Kings Canyon, Lassen Volcanic, and Lake Tahoe basin, providing world-famous trails, alpine climbs, and winter sports. Climate varies from Mediterranean on the western slopes to desert-influenced conditions on the east, shaping diverse ecosystems and outdoor activities year-round.
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