If you are tired of city landscapes and ready to listen to the call of mother nature, then a trip to the mountains is a great choice. Majestic landscapes, hiking trails, and the healing mountain air inspire travelers. And if you also value comfort, then a trip to the American Sierra Nevada will be a unique experience that you will remember for a lifetime.
The greatest mountain system on the planet
The name “Sierra Nevada” was given to these mountains in the late 18th century; in Spanish, it means “snow-covered ranges.” Sierra Nevada is a small part of the mountain system known as the Cordillera.
This grandiose natural phenomenon is truly awe-inspiring, spanning over 18,000 kilometers in length and 1,600 kilometers in width. The Cordillera Mountains stretch across the western coast of the American continents, from Alaska to the tip of Chile in South America. The Sierra Nevada Range extends for 750 kilometers along the coasts of California, Oregon, and Alaska.
Geographically, the American territories of the range are divided into several vast zones. Many famous tourist attractions are part of the Sierra Nevada mountain system, including Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Park.
Geologically, the formation of the Cordillera is not yet complete, which is why frequent earthquakes occur in all regions where these peaks rise. The rise of this colossal range is still causing earthquakes in the state. For example, the 1872 earthquake near the town of Lone Pine was one of the ten largest earthquakes in California.
Rest in a tent and not only
One of the most popular ways to relax in these places is camping. There are several hundred campsites of varying sizes and comforts located in every corner of the mountains. One of the most remote is Vermillion Campground, located on the eastern shore of Lake Edison.
Camping prices start at $30 per night. There is everything you need to spend a few days comfortably: water, toilets, and electricity. Food supplies should be stored in special metal food containers that bears cannot reach. Showers are located nearby in Vermillion Valley Resort (for a fee). There you can also rent motorhomes for the night.
There are also several comfortable tents where you can get a good night’s sleep on a nice bed while still being close to nature.
In the small shop near the camp, you can always buy everything you need: food, hygiene products, drinks, maps, and souvenirs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, you must wear a mask when entering the shop. The shop employees love their work, are attentive to guests, and are always ready to help.
Coffee lovers can enjoy a hot drink while overlooking the scenic landscape, paying $2.75 for the first cup and only $0.75 for subsequent cups.
Lake Edison is man-made, it was created to serve the water intake system of the region and the dam. The water level in the lake depends on how hot the season is. In the summer of 2020, the water was drained for technological reasons. Part of the bottom of the reservoir was exposed, and you can walk along the sandy bottom of the lake.
Tourists can take a ferry that runs twice a day from one side of the lake to the other. If you prefer hiking, there is a simple trail around the lake that can be done by even young children.
They love their guests here: anyone who books a spot at the campsite gets a bottle of beer as a gift. This simple yet heartfelt gesture of hospitality leaves campers in awe, and they post hilarious photos of themselves sipping cold beers on social media.
There is a restaurant at the store, and the smell of barbecue spreads through the forest. The chefs prepare takeaway food all day long, while the virus control protocols are in place. In normal times, the place is a gathering place for fun hiking groups, discussing the best routes and sharing tips and experiences. The camp’s convenient location allows for a variety of interesting hiking destinations, which is why it is always crowded with people.
These places are safe and peaceful, which is why families with children like to visit them.
Climate and weather
The summer months in these parts are dry and hot, which is exacerbated by the strong UV radiation at an altitude of more than two kilometers. In some areas, the daytime temperature can reach 30-35°C, so it is important to carry water and use sunscreen.
Part of America’s second-longest hiking trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, runs through these areas. It stretches from Mexico to Canada, passing through states such as California, Oregon, and Washington. This trail is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. If you’re considering hiking it, be prepared to cover a distance of 4,279 kilometers!
Weather and climate
If you are not ready for hot days or if you have any contraindications, it is better to postpone your trip to the autumn or spring months. These months are considered the high season during the warm season. However, due to the rapid movement of air masses, the weather can change from perfect sunshine to a storm with hail within a day. Therefore, it is essential to wear high-quality clothing and footwear.
In winter, Sierra Nevada welcomes winter sports enthusiasts. The temperature drops to -18°C, and snowfall is frequent. The highlands are covered in snow year-round, providing an ideal environment for extreme sports enthusiasts.
Transport and roads
There is no public transportation in the mountains, so you will need a car to travel here. The Sierra Nevada mountains attract tourists throughout the year. However, if you are traveling during the winter, be prepared for snowstorms and heavy snowfall. It is safer to use a high-traction vehicle. Regular cars may be prohibited from entering if they do not have winter tires. It is important to check the official websites of the resort you are visiting before your trip. Pay close attention to the road signs, as there are limited gas stations to be missed. The roads are very picturesque: the serpentine roads are surrounded by centuries-old trees, cliffs, and rocks.
The amazing variety of landscapes in the Sierra Nevada is both stunning and inspiring. From lush green meadows to breathtaking waterfalls and emerald lakes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
