The Sierra Nevada is primarily composed of igneous rocks, particularly granite, formed from the cooling and solidification of magma deep within the Earth's crust.

The Sierra Nevada is characterized by its dramatic granite formations. These granites are intrusive igneous rocks, meaning they formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface. Over millions of years, these granitic rocks were uplifted and exposed through erosion, creating the towering peaks and cliffs that define the Sierra Nevada landscape.While other rock types are present, igneous rocks, especially granite, are the most dominant and characteristic of the Sierra Nevada.