HIGH SIERRA

The Sierra Nevada range stretches 400 miles, from the Quincy area in the north to the region east of Bakersfield in the south. Its width varies from 40 to 70 miles; many of its peaks soar higher than 14,000 feet. These mountains have a major effect on California's climate and landscape: their snowmelt feeds vital rivers running westward, and their peaks block rainclouds from the harsh deserts in the east. This issue explores the natural and human history of California's most famous mountain range. Learn how molten rock, glaciers, and movement of the earth's crust built up the Sierra Nevada range we see today, and what forces will someday wear these mountains away. Find out about the Native Americans who traditionally lived in Yosemite Valley. Meet the Mountain Men, the shaggy adventurers who were the first Europeans to explore remote mountain regions. Learn about important and fascinating Sierra figures such as naturalist John Muir, Virginia Reed of the tragic Donner Party, and tireless mail carrier Snowshoe Thompson.

Paperback  32 pgs.  Full Color
Suggested for ages: 9-14
Product Code: CCR0001