The Top 6 Mountain Passes in Yosemite Wilderness
Whether it be for the views, for the climbs or for the downhill descents, browse our list of the best mountain passes in Yosemite Wilderness and make your next adventure one to remember. Contributed by the community, for the community, each mountain pass Highlight is a personal recommendation you know you can trust, so simply find your favorite and go.
Last updated: November 21, 2025
Tioga Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
In the summer months, Highway 120 is the access gateway into Yosemite National Park if you are coming from the Eastern Sierra side. It is closed until late spring and …
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Donohue Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Donohue Pass is the last major pass along the PCT if you hike northbound. It is snow covered until early summer or late spring. The view into the valley with …
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Benson Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
The climb up to Benson Pass is long and kind of strenuous. It might be windy at the pass, but the views are stunning.
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Mono Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Mono Pass is like a divide in between two worlds. On the western slope of the Sierras, the alpine environments are lush. On the eastern slope, look to Mono Lake and the desert Mono Valley.
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Dorothy Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
If you hike northbound or southbound - the scenery will change dramatically after you crossed Dorothy Pass! It is not the official end/ beginning of the Sierra Nevada, but it sure feels like it.
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