Newhall Pass | |
---|---|
San Fernando Pass, Fremont Pass, Beale's Cut | |
Elevation | 1,755 ft (535 m) |
Traversed by | I-5 Metrolink: Antelope Valley SR 14 SR 14U - Sierra Highway |
Location | Los Angeles County, California |
Range | Santa Susana Mountains/San Gabriel Mountains |
Coordinates | 34°20′45″N 118°30′36″W / 34.3458°N 118.5101°W |
Topo map | Oat Mountain, CA |
Newhall Pass is a low mountain pass in Los Angeles County, California. Historically called Fremont Pass and San Fernando Pass, with Beale's Cut, it separates the Santa Susana Mountains from the San Gabriel Mountains. Although the pass was visited in August 1769 by Catalan explorer Gaspar de Portolá, it eventually was named for Henry Newhall, a significant businessman in the area during the 19th century.
Newhall Pass links the San Fernando Valley to the Santa Clarita Valley and is a main entry to the Greater Los Angeles area. The pass is known for the massive Newhall Pass interchange and the historic San Fernando Tunnel.
Weather conditions in the pass can vary from triple-digit heat in the summer to rare below freezing temperatures in winter. Snow is possible from December to February, but is quite uncommon; when it does occur, it can lead to heavy traffic and accidents. The pass also is susceptible to heavy flooding during La Niña and El Niño events. Wildfires have also occasionally closed down the pass and California State Route 14.[citation needed]