I know I did a little hiking at Sonora Pass, so I think its fair to add some numbers.

I drove from Bridgeport, CA across the Sierra on CA108 down to Sonora and on to Modesto (a mistake). The next day I headed north up to the agricultural areas east of Stockton and turn east to cross the mountains again on CA4. It really is impressive just how rugged the Sierra are on the east side, and how completely unimpressive they are on the west side. Much of the time I didn't even realize I was gaining elevation and I often felt like I was back east, driving in the Piedmont in Virgina. The west side is also much, much wetter, and I also felt like I was back east with the think green vegetation, and the really big trees. The pictures tell the story, if you care.