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Best Time to Drive Through the Sierra Nevada Mountain Passes

Cruz Daley 6/23/2026 10:47pm

Driving through Tehachapi Pass or Donner Summit in the morning can be a nightmare if you're not prepared for icy roads and traffic. I usually try to hit these passes around mid-afternoon when the temperature's dropped a bit and there are fewer trucks on the road. Anyone have any favorite tips for navigating the Sierra Nevada mountain passes?

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