
Adventure along Scenic Skyline Drive to North Tent Mountain
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,214 m
moderate
Year-round
Hey adventurers! Ready for a serious alpine drive? Head to Sanpete County, Utah, and get ready to climb North Tent Mountain. This peak soars to 10,544 feet, making it one of Utah's highest drivable spots!
You'll be cruising Skyline Drive Scenic Backway (aka Forest Road 150), a totally unpaved path built way back in the 30s that hugs the Wasatch Plateau's ridgeline. This isn't your average Sunday drive though! The road can get narrow, barely wider than your vehicle as you straddle those 10,000-foot ridges.
While you *can* tackle the northern part year-round in a regular car, the southern sections demand some serious clearance or 4x4 power. Think ruts and rocks! Open season is generally July to September. Come prepared – unpredictable rainstorms can turn that dirt track into a muddy mess, so pack extra supplies, shovels, and maybe even chains.
But trust me, the views are worth it! This "Utah Adventure Highway" offers mind-blowing scenery and killer camping, fishing, and hunting spots. Just remember: cell service is spotty at best. Plan ahead, embrace the digital detox, and get ready for an epic off-the-grid experience.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,214 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
moderateDriving the scenic Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits on the Chain of Craters Road! Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this epic 19-mile drive will take you on a wild ride from the 4,000-foot Kīlauea Summit all the way down to sea level and back up again. Opened in '65, this road has a bit of a history with the fiery landscape. It was even partially buried back in '69 by the Maunaulu eruption! Don't worry, it was realigned and reopened in '79. You can even spot remnants of the old road in places where the lava flows from about 40 years ago covered it. Since '68, the road ends where it's been swallowed by more recent flows. Located inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this paved, winding road is accessible to all 2WD vehicles. The views are mind-blowing, but be prepared for some steep sections as you descend over 3,700 feet – that's over 1,100 meters! There's even a hairpin turn thrown in for good measure, but generally, the drive is pretty manageable. Just take it slow, especially if it's foggy or raining, as the road can get slippery. Speaking of rain, always check conditions before heading out, as volcanic activity can be unpredictable and hazardous. Pack for anything – hot sun, strong winds, or sudden showers. Flashlights are a must if you're out after dark. And be aware that volcanic fumes are often present. While it’s only about a 45-minute drive if you go straight through, plan for at least 2.5 hours to really soak it all in. This road is like a front-row seat to the Big Island's ongoing creation! Expect to see craters, lava flows, petroglyphs, and maybe even some active lava. There are also some great hikes and incredible overlooks along the way. Important note: There are no services along this road, so fill up your gas tank and pack plenty of water before you go. Trust me, the views are worth it, but preparation is key!
hardWhat are the most scenic backcountry roads in Joshua Tree?
🇺🇸 Usa
Located at the eastern end of Southern California, in the USA, the Joshua Tree National Park is immense, nearly 800,000 acres, and infinitely variable. Two desert systems, the Mojave and the Colorado, divide the park into two arid ecosystems. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land with strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. For your own safety and for the protection of the natural features of the park please stay on established roads. What are the most scenic backcountry roads in Joshua Tree? is a challenging, unpaved trail located in Joshua Tree National Park . It spans 24.3 km (15.1 miles) and includes steep sections with an 11% gradient. The trail requires a due to obstacles like sandy spots and deep ruts. It offers scenic views and is open year-round, but can change road conditions. Driving without stops takes about Black Eagle Mine Road Black Eagle Mine Road unpaved route through a historic mining district in Joshua Tree National Park . The road gradually becomes rougher and more challenging, requiring a vehicle with good clearance. It passes abandoned mines, including Barry Storm's Jade Mine Black Eagle Gold Mine . The road is blocked near the end, and the area is remote, with no cell reception. is a scenic, unpaved drive through Joshua Tree National Park , the surrounding mountains, and the . The road is suitable for high-clearance vehicles , especially after rain or snow. The drive takes you through Covington Crest Trailhead Joshua Tree National Park , offering a fascinating journey through geological formations shaped by vehicle is recommended beyond the first few miles. The road features 16 interpretive stops, making it a great drive for learning about the park’s geological history. It takes about to complete the loop. 41.68 km (25.9 miles) Joshua Tree National Park , passing through abandoned mines. It’s a challenging drive with sharp rocks and deep sand, requiring a vehicle. The road is remote, with no cell reception, and can take to drive. The best time to visit is from , as summer heat makes it less suitable. Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road unpaved, scenic route in Joshua Tree National Park . It’s a challenging road through soft sand and rocky terrain, requiring a vehicle. The road begins at the Cottonwood Visitor Center . Drivers should be prepared for remote areas and difficult conditions. Driving the gnarly Nellie Creek Road in Colorado Beef Pasture Gap is One of the Highest Paved Roads in Texas Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
easyGlenn Highway is not something to miss
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure on the Glenn Highway! This epic 179-mile (288km) stretch of Alaska Route 1 runs from Anchorage all the way to Glennallen where it meets the Richardson Highway. You'll want to set aside about 4 hours for the drive itself, but trust me, you'll want to make plenty of stops! Named after Captain Edwin Glenn, this well-maintained, two-lane paved road winds its way through some seriously stunning scenery. Think jaw-dropping mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and rivers so gorgeous they'll take your breath away. The grades are pretty gentle, so it's a smooth ride most of the way. Keep in mind that the highway started as the Palmer Road back in the 1930s. The highest point is at 3,332 feet (1.016m) above sea level. Basically, this route is a gateway to the natural wonders of Alaska, and it promises a road trip you'll never forget!
moderateLewis and Clark Highway
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for the Lewis and Clark Highway in Skamania County, Washington! This paved beauty serves up some seriously vast vistas and an exhilarating driving experience you won't forget. Think twisting and turning roads with constant, incredible views – it's a photographer's dream. Follow in the footsteps of legends on this unforgettable road trip tracing the famous expedition. This scenic byway, part of Washington State Route 14 (SR-14), hugs the Washington side of the Columbia River. Just a heads up, this road gets a little busier on weekends and during holidays. Completed in 1915, it's a leisurely drive with plenty of places to stop and soak it all in. Get ready for some serious natural beauty!