How to Drive Carson Pass Highway

Carson Pass Highway in California is an awe-inspiring 58 miles of natural wonder and beauty. Located in east central California, Carson Pass Highway stretches from the Sacramento Valley to the Carson Valley near the Nevada border. Considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in America, this scenic byway passes lakes, runs along rivers and winds through national forests.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Binoculars
• Jacket
• Reliable vehicle
• Hiking boots

1. Begin at the Dew Drop Ranger Station near Pioneer, California. Drive east along Carson Pass Highway, also known as Route 88.

2. Take pictures of Silver Lake with Thunder Mountain reflecting in its quiet waters. Lodges and camping grounds abound around the lake if you decide to spend the night in this area.

3. Notice the Mokelumne River running near the scenic byway to the south. Fishing, boating and whitewater paddling are available on the river.

4. Enter the Mokelumne Wilderness Area. Spread across the Eldorado, the Stanislaus and the Toiyabie National Forests, the Mokelumne Wilderness covers over 105,000 acres. Enjoy horseback riding, biking or hiking along more than 100 miles of trails. Check out the Who Can Help section below for more information about recreation in this area.

5. Watch for wildlife in the Eldorado National Forest. Spot eagles and hawks soaring over mountain tops while deer and elk graze in valleys. Bears, mountain lions and raccoons are part of more than 300 species of animals living in the forest.

6. Drive over Carson Pass at an 8,573-foot elevation and enjoy the magnificent view over the Sierra Nevada. Hike one of the many trails to further take in the beauty.

7. Pass camping sites, mountains, giant cedar pines and wildflowers as you drive into Woodfords, California, the end point of your scenic drive.

Tips & Warnings

• Snowshoeing and skiing are available activities in the area if you decide to travel in the winter.
• Make sure to take hiking boots and a jacket for when you decide to try out some of the trails.
• Due to its elevation, the byway may be covered with snow during the winter and temporarily closed.

Resources

• Find more information at byways.org.
• Find fees, directions, camping and seasonal information at the Department of Forest Service Web site.
• Check out the Web site for the Mokelumne Wilderness for more information about the area.