The Sierra Nevada range is approximately 100 million years old, originating during the Mesozoic Era as part of geological activity related to the formation of the North American continent.

The Sierra Nevada range began forming about 100 million years ago during the late Mesozoic Era, primarily due to subduction processes along the western edge of North America. This tectonic activity caused magma to rise and cool, creating the granitic core of the range. Over millions of years, erosion exposed these granitic formations, shaping the majestic peaks we see today. Additional uplift occurred during the Cenozoic Era, further enhancing its rugged topography. Glacial activity during the Ice Ages carved valleys and left behind iconic features such as Yosemite's cliffs and U-shaped valleys, solidifying the Sierra Nevada as a geological marvel.