Pacheco Pass

Pacheco Pass is a mountain passage in the Diablo Range that connects the Santa Clara Valley with the Central Valley through State Route 152 at roughly 1,368 feet elevation. The pass cuts through wooded and open hillsides, with the four-lane highway climbing toward the summit to cross between the two valleys.

Early 19th century exploratory expeditions first brought the pass to the attention of European settlers moving through the region. The route quickly became a major connection between the two large parts of the landscape, shaping California's settlement patterns.

Indigenous peoples used this mountain corridor as a vital trade route connecting highland and lowland regions for centuries. The passage served as a meeting point where different communities exchanged goods and knowledge.

The road through the passage is well-developed with clear lanes climbing in both directions, keeping traffic fairly smooth. Travelers should be aware that weather and visibility can shift quickly at mountain elevations, so attention while driving is important.

A large wind farm with numerous turbines sits atop the summit, clearly visible from the highway and standing out against the mountain backdrop. These modern structures create an interesting contrast to the wild landscape surrounding them.