Sayyiduna Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates: The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) knew that a mountain pass is better than a valley.
Imam al-Bazzar recorded this narration, and its chain is hasan (fair).
Hadith Referenceمجمع الزوائد ومنبع الفوائد / كتاب المناقب / 16489