A bumpy paved road to Ski Apache in New Mexico
Usa, north-america
19.15 km
2,988 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Ski Apache in New Mexico! Perched way up high in Lincoln County, this ski resort sits at a dizzying 9,803 feet! Seriously, if you're not a fan of heights, maybe take a friend who's comfortable driving.
You'll find Ski Apache nestled near Ruidoso, right in the heart of the Lincoln National Forest in southern New Mexico.
Getting there is an experience itself. You'll cruise along New Mexico Highway 532, or as the locals call it, Ski Run Road. It's a paved road, thankfully, but hold on tight—it's a bit steep and bumpy. From Alto (off NM-48), it's about 11.9 miles to the top.
Speaking of the top, you'll be scaling the Sierra Blanca slopes until you reach a whopping 10,098 feet! The road's generally open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather during winter. Things can change fast, and they might close it down temporarily. Snow chains could be a lifesaver, too.
Now, for the thrill-seekers: this road is STEEP. We're talking a maximum 12% gradient on some of those ramps! Plus, those hairpin turns mean you'll be testing your brakes on the way down. It’s easily one of the twistiest roads in New Mexico. Some spots have barriers, but others? Well, let's just say you get some incredible views... straight down.
Where is it?
A bumpy paved road to Ski Apache in New Mexico is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.7434, -99.5380
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 19.15 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,988 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 40.7434, -99.5380
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Stony Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for Stony Pass, a wild ride high in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado! This baby tops out at a whopping 12,618 feet, so be prepared for some serious altitude. You'll find it east of the old mining town of Silverton, and trust me, this road has history etched into every rock. Speaking of rocks, that's how it got its name! Stony Pass Road (also known as Forest Road 520 and County Road 3, or even Hamilton Pass) is 10.4 miles of unpaved, rugged terrain. Think rocky, rough, and washed out in sections. This used to be a stage and freight route back in the 1870s, a lifeline for the miners hauling silver and gold. After falling into disuse, the Forest Service revived it in the 50s. You'll need a high-clearance 4x4 to tackle this one. Seriously, leave the Prius at home. The road follows the Rio Grande River for a good stretch, and there are some seriously narrow spots where you'll be praying you don't meet anyone coming the other way! Heads up: this pass is usually snowed in from late October until late June or early July. But when it's open, oh man, the views are incredible. Think panoramic vistas of the Continental Divide, fields of wildflowers, gurgling creeks, and cascading waterfalls. Plus, you'll be surrounded by mining history. It's an adventure you won't forget!
extremeA Once in a Lifetime Drive through Hell's Backbone Road in Utah
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: Hell's Backbone Road, nestled in Utah's Garfield County, a hidden gem within the Dixie National Forest. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks! Built back in the Great Depression, this 38-mile dirt road winds its way from Boulder to Escalante, offering a thrilling alternative to the paved highway. They called it the Poison Road back then because one wrong move could send you tumbling! It's named after the super-skinny ridge it crosses. Now, don't let the "family car" suggestion fool you—this road is narrow, winding, and clings to the side of a ridge with seriously steep drops on either side. Stormy weather? Maybe skip it. Remote is an understatement. No cell service, so you’re on your own out there. Oh, and did I mention it climbs to a whopping 9,232 feet? Yeah, it's a high one, which means it's a no-go in winter, closed after the first big snow. But, oh, the views! Sweeping vistas, access to incredible wilderness, and a healthy dose of history. The highlight? Hell's Backbone Bridge, a 109-foot-long span with a 1,500-foot drop on either side. Seriously, bring your camera! It crosses Sand Creek, giving you amazing views of the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness Area. Summer's the busiest time to visit. Give yourself 2-3 hours to tackle this beauty without stops, but honestly, you'll want more time to soak it all in. It's a trip you won't soon forget!
easyWhy Is It Called Deadman Summit?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you HAVE to check out Deadman Summit in California! This high-altitude pass sits way up there, offering killer views you won't believe. Why "Deadman," you ask? Well, legend says it's named after a, uh, *headless* body found nearby back in the day. Spooky! The good news is the road itself is totally paved and smooth, so no need for a monster truck. It's part of , stretching from near the cute village of . Keep in mind it's open year-round, but winter can bring short closures, so check the conditions before you go! Get ready for some stunning scenery, just watch out for, you know, ghosts.
hardEstes Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers, because Estes Mountain in central Idaho's Custer County is calling! This peak tops out at a breathtaking 9,514 feet, making it one of Idaho's highest drives. The road? Let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. Think gravel, rocks, bumps, and a whole lotta tippy moments. Winter? Forget about it – impassable is the word. Experienced off-roaders will be in heaven though! Definitely bring your 4x4, and maybe your courage, because this trail is steep, with hairpin turns aplenty. Oh, and heights? Yeah, you'll be seeing some serious drop-offs. Watch out for wet conditions that can turn the road into a muddy challenge. Keep your eyes peeled for old mines all the way to the top, remnants of the area's gold-rush history dating back to the 1800s. You'll find a parking area near the summit. Get ready for some seriously stunning scenery!