Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway

Arnold to Markleeville

Sierra Nevada · California · United States

Key measurements

Distance

60.9 miles

Elevation gain

7,107 ft

Elevation loss

5,584 ft

High point

8,733 ft

Low point

4,010 ft

Net change

1,524 ft (4,010 ft to 5,533 ft)

Surface

Paved

Route type

point-to-point

Route Overview

Crossing the central Sierra Nevada via Highway 4 (Ebbetts Pass), this point-to-point route spans 61 miles from the western slope timber town of Arnold to Markleeville in Alpine County. The ride rises through dense mixed-conifer forests of incense-cedar and sugar pine, traverses exposed high-elevation granite, crests Ebbetts Pass at 8,733 feet, and drops sharply into the dry, sage-dotted eastern Sierra along the East Fork Carson River drainage. Characterized by steep gradients, narrow single-lane mountain passes without centerlines, and sweeping canyon descents, it represents one of the most rugged paved trans-Sierra crossings in California.

Key Segments & Geographic Transitions

Ebbetts Pass Highway — Miles 0.0–56.0

Leaving Arnold at 4,010 feet, State Route 4 ascends continuously through western slope Sierra foothill forest toward Bear Valley and Lake Alpine. Beyond Lake Alpine, the character of the road changes dramatically: the yellow highway centerline disappears, the pavement narrows significantly, and the road contours around glacial granite bowls and tight ridge edges. The ascent over Pacific Grade leads to the high summit at mile 42.9 (8,733 ft), surrounded by volcanic peaks and subalpine lakes. The eastern descent plunges along Silver Creek canyon via tight, blind switchbacks and steep dropping grades down to the junction with Highway 89.

Carson River Canyon — Miles 56.1–60.9

Merging onto CA-89 South, the route transitions into the open, arid terrain of the eastern Sierra. The road widens back into a standard two-lane highway, tracking the floor of the East Fork Carson River basin. Flanked by high canyon walls, sagebrush, and cottonwoods, this short closing stretch offers sweeping curves and gentle grades leading directly into the town of Markleeville.

Seasonal & Environmental Context

This route crosses high-altitude alpine terrain subject to extreme weather. Ebbetts Pass is closed during winter and spring due to heavy snow accumulation, typically operating only from late May or June through November.

With over 4,700 feet of net elevation change between Arnold and the summit, temperature drops can be severe. Clear morning skies frequently give way to afternoon high-altitude thunderstorms during mid-to-late summer. Residual meltwater, sand, and fine gravel runoff are common across the upper pass pavement, particularly early in the season or after mountain rain events.

Logistics & Services

Fuel and food are available at the origin in Arnold and the destination in Markleeville. Services between Bear Valley and the eastern foot of the pass are extremely limited or seasonal. Cellular coverage is non-existent across most of the upper Ebbetts Pass corridor, making self-sufficiency and planning essential.

Important Considerations

The high pass section of CA-4 features single-lane segments, blind crests, sharp hairpins, and sharp drop-offs without guardrails or centerlines. Downhill traffic on narrow sections often needs to yield to ascending vehicles. High elevations can cause early fatigue or mild altitude effects. Watch for deer, cattle, and mountain runoff on the pavement throughout the high-country and river valley sections.