Where is Donner Pass?
Usa, north-america
24.14 km
2,210 m
hard
Year-round
Donner Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,210m (7,250ft) above sea level, located in Nevada County, in the U.S. state of California.
Where is Donner Pass?
The pass, also known as
, is located west of Truckee, in the eastern part of California, within the Tahoe National Forest.
Why is it Called Donner Pass?
The pass gets its name from the
ill-fated Donner Party
who overwintered there in 1846.
How Long is Donner Pass in California?
The road to the summit is totally paved. It’s called Interstate 80. The pass is 24.14km (15 miles) long, running east-west from Truckee to Kingvale.
Is Donner Pass in California Open?
Set high in the northern Sierra Nevada, the pass is
, but conditions on the pass in the winter often cause temporary closures or require you to use chains on your tires. Winters at the summit can be brutal, as it’s one of the
in the contiguous United States.
Is Donner Pass Dangerous?
It’s usually known as one of the
more dangerous areas for truck drivers
and is the site of many fatal accidents. The pass has a steep approach from the east and a gradual approach from the west. In such trips, road emergencies may be inevitable. If you do not have health insurance or are short on money, planning your cash expenses is crucial. Consider seeking
financial assistance from trusted sources
, whether online or offline, to ensure your trip is safe.
Interstate 70 is a remote scenic drive in Utah
Sherman Pass in California has lots of twists and turns
Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our
to discover the most spectacular roads of the world
Drive Us to Your Road!
With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click
to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 24.14 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,210 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderate1. Establishing Legal and Financial Foundations
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the scenic Beartooth Highway in Montana and Wyoming. This baby's about 68 miles long, and let me tell you, it's not for the faint of heart! You'll climb to a whopping 10,947 feet above sea level, so be prepared for some serious altitude. Now, heads up: this road has some tight hairpin turns and steep drop-offs that will make your palms sweat. But trust me, the views are totally worth it! Think snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and crystal-clear alpine lakes. It's like driving through a postcard. Just keep your eyes on the road, and maybe don't look down too much. You're in for an unforgettable ride!
moderateWhere is Moonville Tunnel?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, ghost hunters and history buffs, listen up! Deep in the backwoods of southeastern Ohio, you'll find the legendary Moonville Tunnel. All that's left of the old coal-mining town, this abandoned railway tunnel from the Marietta & Cincinnati Railroad era is seriously remote, surrounded by a dense forest. But it's not just the solitude that draws people here... it's the ghosts! The major legend says a railway worker (depending on who you ask, it was an engineer, conductor, brakeman, or signalman) was crushed by a train right in the tunnel. Now, people claim his ghost hangs around the entrance, waiting for a train that will never come. Countless witnesses report seeing a spectral figure in the shadows, and get this - it's been caught on camera multiple times! Getting there is a bit of an adventure. You'll have to park and hike in, but the eerie atmosphere and chance of a paranormal encounter make it worth the trip. Just be prepared for a spooky stroll!
moderateA beautiful drive to Presa Zimapan
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, road trip enthusiasts, listen up! I've got a hidden gem for you, snaking its way through the stunning landscapes where Hidalgo and Querétaro meet in Mexico. This unnamed state route leads you on an unforgettable ride to the Zimapán reservoir. Picture this: breathtaking mountain vistas, the expansive reservoir shimmering in the sunlight, and dramatic canyon walls towering beside you. But wait, there's more! You'll actually *cross* the main dam itself, right on the state line where the Moctezuma River carves its way through the canyon. And the tunnels? Prepare for three! Two shorter ones near the dam, but then BAM – you're plunged into Querétaro's longest tunnel, stretching for a solid 2.5 kilometers! The entire road is paved, so no need to worry about off-roading. Plus, there are plenty of viewpoints and rest stops along the way to soak it all in. Thinking of making it a longer trip? Ferry access and campsites abound around the reservoir – perfect for an extended escape!
extremeTrout Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're itching for a serious off-road challenge in Colorado, Trout Mountain is calling your name. We're talking a lung-busting 11,781 feet above sea level in Mineral County. This isn't your Sunday drive. The road to the top is a gravel track, strictly 4x4 territory. And seriously, check the weather before you go – this area can get hit hard with snow, avalanches, and landslides. You might find ice patches, too, so be prepared. Expect a rocky and muddy ride – it's all part of the fun (if you're into that sort of thing!). The payoff? Epic views and a serious sense of accomplishment!