Stretching from the Sacramento Valley to Woodfords, the Carson Pass Highway winds its way through the western slope of the Sierra Nevadas, reaches the summit at Carson Pass, and ends up on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada. One of the most visually dramatic of the trans-Sierra highways in California, you will witness views of ragged volcanic skylines, cool green meadows, mountain lakes framed by timber-covered slopes, adventure-filled rock valleys, and distant mountain peaks.
As the route is located in both the Eldorado and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forests, outdoor lovers can plan on nonstop adventure. Boating and fishing are popular activities at Bear River Reservoir or Silver Lake. The Mokelumne Wilderness provides hikers and backpackers with opportunities to get close to a nature that is off limits to motorized vehicles and preserved for future enjoyment. Pristine rivers and lakes exist within the wilderness boundaries. Some of the cleanest, clearest water in the world flows from these wilderness watersheds. Campers won�t be lacking adventure either. Whether your idea of camping is rubbing sticks together and sleeping under the stars, or roughing it easy in your motor home, the byway has a place for you to spend a few nights relaxing in nature.
But the fun doesn�t stop when the snow flies. Winter recreation is just as fantastic; try snowmobiling, sledding, cross-country or downhill skiing. Not only is the winter recreation incredible, but the views from the route are possibly more magical when blanketed in white.
Find adventure and astounding natural beauty along the Carson Pass Highway, and escape from the everyday grind to peaceful seclusion.
