mountain pass

A mountain pass is a navigable route through a mountain range or over high terrain, typically at a higher elevation than surrounding areas. It serves as a natural corridor that makes traveling across rugged landscapes easier, often used historically for trade and modern transportation routes like roads or railways. Passes are formed by erosion or geological activity that creates a lower point between mountains or hills. They are strategically important for connecting regions, enabling easier access over difficult terrain, and often become key transit pathways in mountainous areas.