Emigrant Gap, Rail mountain pass in Sierra Nevada, California.
Emigrant Gap stands at 5,200 feet elevation, featuring steep cliffs and connecting the American River drainage to the Bear River drainage system.
The Stephens-Townsend-Murphy Party made the first documented crossing through Emigrant Gap during their 1844-45 expedition across the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Historical marker 403 stands along Interstate 80, documenting the determination of pioneers who lowered their wagons by rope through this mountain passage.
The pass receives over 243 inches of annual snowfall, making winter travel challenging and requiring specific preparation for crossing during cold months.
Early wagon trains entering Bear Valley navigated this crucial section of the California Trail, which marked the transition between two major river drainage systems.
Location: California
GPS coordinates: 39.30300,-120.66600
Latest update: March 4, 2025 16:35
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