How to Drive Route 152-Pacheco Pass Road in California

Route 152/Pacheco Pass Road is located in the Central Valley of California. Pacheco Pass was originally used by the Ausaymus Indians to get back and forth to the coast. It later became a stage route for other travelers. The road is now a popular route between the Silicon Valley and the Central Valley, stretching 40 miles from Los Banos to Gilroy. It mostly passes through agricultural farmlands, but recreation is available in the San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin at the junction of Interstate 5 and State Route 152 near Los Banos. Take 152 and travel west through pastures and farmlands.

2. Enter the San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area. Stop to fish along the reservoir's 65-mile shoreline. Set up in one of the campsites to give yourself more time to enjoy windsurfing, swimming and hiking.

3. Continue west along Route 152, passing Pacheco Lake to the north. Stop at the lake for fishing and hiking.

4. End your drive on Route152/Pacheco Pass Road at the State Highway 101 junction in Gilroy.

Tips & Warnings

• Fishing and boating are also available in the O'Neil Forebay and Los Banos Reservoir located in the San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area.
• Traffic on Route 152 can become very congested, especially during work commute times.