Located in the southern Sierra Nevada range, the parks’ elevations extend from 1,300 feet (418m) in the foothills to 14,491 feet (4,417m) at the summit of Mount Whitney, the highest mountain in the contiguous 48 states. Plunging in the opposite direction far below the surface are over 200 marble caverns, many with endemic cave fauna. This huge variation in the landscape contributes to the collage of habitats that create a rich assemblage of terrestrial, aquatic and subterranean ecosystems. Here one can observe a vast diversity of plants and animals representing an array of adaptations. Leashed pets are allowed in developed areas, such as picnic areas, parking lots, and along gravel and paved roads. Pets are not allowed in the buildings on trails, or in the backcountry. Leashes must be no longer than six feet.