The Top 9 Mountain Passes in Tahoe National Forest
Whether it be for the views, for the climbs or for the downhill descents, browse our list of the best mountain passes in Tahoe National Forest 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 7, 2025
Castle Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
At Castle Pass there is at least one nice campsite if you don’t want to go the extra mile to the Peter Grubb Hut.
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Historic Donner Pass Summit ⛰️ Pacific Crest Trail crossing
Highlight • Mountain Pass
The old Hwy 40 passed through this summmit at 7135 ft elevation, still today the Donner Pass Road. Fast and heavy traffic of course goes over the I-80 interstate freeway …
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Roller Pass Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Very short spur from the PCT leads to this sweeping overlook, well worth a minute to enjoy the views. The historic pass was one of the routes explored by early immigrants, and later by miners.
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Palisades Tahoe
Highlight • Viewpoint
Palisades Tahoe, formerly known as Squaw Valley Ski Resort, is a popular area for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. It offers beautiful mountains, valleys and stunning views in all directions.
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Barker Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Barker Pass is the junction for Baker Pass Road, Baker Meadow, FR 15N38 and the Pacific Crest Trail. Barker Pass is up FR 15N38 just 50 feet north of this …
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