The Sierra Nevadas, mighty sentinels of California, are home to the nation's second highest peak and second deepest natural lake,
but they are second to none in magnificent alpine scenery, abundant recreation, and year-round resorts.
This 400-mile mountain range extends from Tehachapi Pass near Bakersfield in the south to the gap south of Lassen Peak in the Cascades to the north. Within its folds are found such wonders as Lake Tahoe, Mt. Whitney, and the Coloma Gold Discovery Site.
Beauty and recreation are intrinsically woven together here. Add to this foundation a liberal sprinkling of Gold Rush history, and the Sierras become a world-renown destination for travelers.