Beckwourth Pass is a mountain pass located in the Sierra Nevada range of California. It connects the eastern and western slopes of the mountains and is situated at an elevation of about 5,200 feet. The pass was named after James Beckwourth, an African American frontiersman and explorer who played a significant role in its discovery and use during the mid-19th century. The pass served as an important route for settlers traveling to California during the California Gold Rush. It provided a more direct path for those seeking fortune in the goldfields, making it a vital thoroughfare for migration and trade in the region. Today, it remains a scenic area popular for outdoor activities.