A scenic mountain road to Cayoosh Pass in BC
Canada, north-america
N/A
1,291 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, road trip fans! We're heading to Cayoosh Pass in beautiful British Columbia, Canada. This baby sits at 4,235 feet in the Coastal Mountains – specifically, the Lillooet Ranges.
You'll be cruising on Highway 99, a fully paved road since way back in '91. Don't get too comfy though – this isn't your grandma's Sunday drive. We're talking some seriously steep sections, clocking in at a 10-15% grade! Get ready for hairpin turns on the side of a steep hill, and some dramatic drop-offs. Seriously, it's gorgeous, but keep your eyes on the road – you might even smell burning brakes from the trucks! Also, rocks fall on the road all the time, and there's high avalanche danger in some areas.
Heads up – cell service is spotty. The road's usually open year-round, but winter storms can shut it down. Honestly, for the best experience, tackle this drive in the summer. Trust me, you won't forget the majestic views, the twisty switchbacks, and the occasional single-lane bridge. It's a real driver's dream!
Where is it?
A scenic mountain road to Cayoosh Pass in BC is located in Canada (north-america). Coordinates: 53.6495, -107.1341
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 1,291 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 53.6495, -107.1341
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhere is Cottonwood Canyon?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, road trippers, because Cottonwood Canyon Road is a wild ride through the heart of Death Valley! This Inyo County, California gem is a true desert adventure. You'll find this canyon clinging to the northern edge of Death Valley National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for the namesake cottonwood trees that line the stream at the end of the road. Plus, there's even a spur road to Marble Canyon – just look for the metal post about 2 miles in! Now, about that road... it's unpaved and primitive for its entire length, about 25 miles running deep into the Cottonwood Mountains! You'll definitely need a high-clearance vehicle for the first 8 miles to handle the sand, washboard, and rocks. But beyond that, you NEED 4x4 to conquer the deep sand, rocky washes, tight corners, and the occasional boulder. Fair warning: the last mile and a half can be seriously washed out. Speaking of washouts, this road is super sensitive to rain, so check local conditions before you go. Conditions can change in a heartbeat here, so be prepared for anything. But if you're up for a challenge, Cottonwood Canyon Road delivers with some seriously stunning desert scenery!
hardWhere is Napoleon Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Napoleon Pass? Oh, you *need* to add this to your Colorado bucket list! This beast of a pass climbs to a whopping 12,034 feet in the heart of Gunnison County, smack-dab in the Gunnison National Forest. Forget pavement – we're talking serious off-road adventure on FR 953, also known as Napoleon Pass Road. You *absolutely* need a 4x4; this isn't a Sunday drive! You'll be splashing through multiple creek crossings as you follow Middle Willow Creek. Prepare for mud, gorgeous scenery, and an unforgettable ride along the west face of the Continental Divide! The whole shebang stretches for about 12.4 miles, winding its way between the quirky little towns of Tincup and Pitkin. Originally, it was a vital route for hauling ore back in the day. Fair warning: this one's a summer-only kinda deal. The Sawatch Range throws down some serious weather, so accessibility is limited and closures can happen out of the blue. But trust me, if you get the chance, the views are worth it!
extremeDriving the truly epic Big Pine Death Valley Road
🇺🇸 Usa
Ready for an epic desert adventure? The Big Pine Death Valley Road carves its way through the heart of Death Valley National Park in California's Inyo County. Just a heads up - you might find it closed after big storms. This wild ride stretches for about 70 miles (112 km), linking Ubehebe Crater Road to Highway 168, near the tiny town of Zurich. You'll be cruising along Eureka Valley Road, Loretta Mine Road, and Waucoba Road. Prepare to climb! You'll hit a max elevation of over 7,600 feet (2,334 meters). Winter can bring snow, so pack those chains. Flash floods can happen anytime, so be prepared for anything! Most of the road is unpaved, but the last stretch from Eureka Valley to Highway 168 is smooth sailing. This is the main backcountry route from Scotty's Castle to Owens Valley, a well-maintained gravel road that snakes through northern Death Valley and Eureka Valley. Keep an eye out for the turnoffs to Eureka Dunes and North Pass into Saline Valley. A high-clearance vehicle is a must if there's been flooding. Get ready for dust, washboard roads, and some bumpy bits. This is one of Death Valley's most challenging backcountry roads. Remember, this area is remote, so come prepared. Death Valley is known as the hottest, driest, and lowest National Park, so expect extreme conditions. The road's condition is always changing, depending on recent weather. Also important to know: there are no services along the way, and Eureka Valley can see some serious washouts. Camping is not allowed on this road.
extremeRed Mountain Pass in Colorado is a treacherous drive in the wintertime
🇺🇸 Usa
Red Mountain Pass, chilling at 11,018 feet above sea level in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, is a must-do for thrill-seeking road trippers! This stunning stretch of the Million Dollar Highway (U.S. 550) links Ouray and Silverton, treating you to unbeatable views of the "American Alps." Named for the rusty-red peaks that dominate the landscape, this high mountain pass is paved, but don't let that fool you. Expect steep sections, hairpin curves, and drop-offs that demand your full attention. Avalanche season is a real thing here, so be prepared for potential closures. Black Bear Road, known for its extreme danger, kicks off right here. The climb can be intense, featuring an 8% grade on the north side near Ouray and sheer cliffs. But even with winter weather, crews generally keep the road open. Just remember: chains or snow tires might be required, and you definitely want to avoid this drive in the dark or in wet conditions! The lack of guardrails allows for snow plowing, but makes things interesting! Come prepared for one of the most visually stunning, edge-of-your-seat drives in the country! Just keep your eyes on the road (and maybe not the drop-offs!).