Sierra Nevada Travel Information
Strung across a stretch of eastern California find the Sierra Nevada,
a mountain range as likable for its delicate meadows as it is
its dramatic peaks. Though perfectly accessible (provided snow hasn't
blocked some of the higher passes), these mountains have retained
their wild appeal, whether you're talking geology (think glaciers and
volcanoes), fauna (look for marauding bears and the
rare golden eagle), or flora - this is, after all where you'll find
immense and ancient sequoia forests.
Encompassing three national parks, six national forests, and many
square miles of assorted protected areas, the Sierra Nevada is one of
the largest islands of scenic wilderness remaining in the United
States and as such, deserved the complete attention of both outdoor
enthusiasts and those with an eye for majestic
landscapes.
Any savvy visitor will appreciate the fact
that the four seasons bring to these parts an ever-changing list of
nature-friendly pursuits. The Sierra Nevada, a Spanish phrase meaning
"snowy
range," lives up to its name come winter storms, home to most of
California's big-name ski resorts, miles of cross country trails
and a handful of Sno-Parks. But
the peaks call out to more than just snow bunnies. Hikers and climbers
converge on Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the Lower 48,
year-round, and during warmer months the West's main long-distance
route, the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, sees a steady stream
of backpackers. Rock-climbers congregate at famous faces like El
Capitan to test their skills on serious granite, and on boulders
around Lake Tahoe. Once the jewel-hued lakes and sinuous rivers lose
their ice, this region also attracts the attentions of anglers,
boaters, paddlers, whitewater rafters and overheated hikers.
From here, you can
find general information about the
Sierras as a whole. For more specific information, visit our separate
coverage of Lake
Tahoe, Yosemite
National Park, and Sequoia/King’s
Canyon National Park. The Sierra Nevada roughly follow the
east border of California, forming the eastern boundary of the central
California valley. For more information, please choose an area of
interest from the left.
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