
Alunite Ridge
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,461 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, so picture this: you're in Utah, cruising through Piute County, ready to conquer Alunite Ridge! This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. We're talking about one of Utah's highest mountain roads, topping out at a cool 11,354 feet!
The road, affectionately known as Wedge Road, is a gravelly, rocky adventure. Expect a tippy, bumpy ride that'll test your off-roading skills. Seriously, unless you're comfy with unpaved mountain roads, maybe sit this one out. A 4x4 is practically a must!
Heads up: it's usually snowed in from October to June (ish), so plan accordingly. The trail itself? Let's just say it's pretty steep in sections. Oh, and if you're afraid of heights, maybe don't look down!
At the summit, you'll find a massive antenna structure, which, okay, isn't exactly scenic, but the views? Totally worth it. Plus, the trail winds past remnants of Utah's mining past, so it's a little history lesson too! Basically, Alunite Ridge is an off-road adventure with a side of stunning scenery and a dash of adrenaline.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,461 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Mount Ka'ala?
🇺🇸 Usa
Aloha, fellow adventurers! Let's talk about conquering Mount Ka'ala on Oahu, Hawaii's third-largest island! This bad boy tops out at 4,038 feet, making it the island's highest point, nestled right in the misty Waianae Range. Now, here's the deal: you can't just cruise up to the summit in your rental car. This peak is home to an FAA tracking station, so the US Army keeps the road pretty locked down from Schofield Barracks. Expect high security and stick to the signs! But don't let that deter you! The road itself, Mount Kaala Road, is a paved beauty, built back in the 40s. Starting from Farrington Highway, it's a 7.7-mile climb, switchbacking its way up with 14 hairpin turns. We're talking a serious elevation gain of 4,020 feet, with an average gradient of nearly 10%. Just a heads-up: up here, the weather can change on a dime! Expect fog and almost 100% humidity, so pack accordingly.
hardSilvertip Basin
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Ever dreamt of conquering a road that scrapes the sky? Then Silvertip Basin in Wyoming's Absaroka range is calling your name. We're talking a lung-busting 10,633 feet (3,241m) above sea level, making it one of the highest drives in the state! Forest Road 1013I isn't for the faint of heart. Picture this: a super skinny, rocky track that climbs like a homesick angel. You'll definitely need a high-clearance 4x4 to tackle this beast. And heads up, this road is typically snowed in from October to June, so plan accordingly. Heights phobia? Maybe skip this one. But if you're brave enough, you'll be rewarded with views that'll make your jaw drop. Just remember, this is an old mine road, so expect a wild, rugged ride, and keep an eye on the weather. Thunderstorms can turn those dirt tracks into a 4x4-only mud bath in a heartbeat!
moderateBig Sur Coast Highway is an epic coastal drive in California
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising down the Big Sur Coast Highway, California dreamin' in real-time. This legendary route hugs the coastline from Monterey to San Luis Obispo, and trust me, it’s a ride you won't forget. We're talking 123 miles (that’s about 198 kilometers) of pure, paved bliss along the iconic California State Route 1. Officially an All-American Road, it strings together the Big Sur Coast Highway and the San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway into one epic adventure. Give yourself around five hours each way to soak it all in. You’ll want to, because the scenery is next-level. Seriously, this is one of the most breathtaking drives in the US, with mind-blowing views of the rugged Pacific coastline. Just a heads up: it can get a little crowded with slow-moving RVs during holiday weekends. The road is fine for most cars, and it's been twisting and turning since way back in 1937. But keep your eyes peeled – some sections have narrow shoulders and steep drop-offs. RVs and larger vehicles, be extra careful! Mother Nature likes to keep things interesting here, too. Landslides and washouts after big storms and wildfires can cause closures. Also, remember you're heading into the wild: cell service can be spotty at best.
easyA high mountain road from Xalatlaco to El Ajusco
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, picture this: you're cruising between Xalatlaco (in Mexico State) and El Ajusco (Mexico City) on what might just be one of Mexico's most gorgeous drives. Seriously, the views are insane! This beauty of a road clocks in at about 35 kilometers (21-ish miles) and it's all smooth pavement as it winds through Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco. Just be warned: you'll be climbing – and I mean *climbing*. We're talking a peak elevation of 3,622 meters (almost 12,000 feet!), making it one of the highest roads around. Heads up, though, this road is a major draw, especially in winter when snow dusts the landscape. Weekends and holidays? Forget about it – packed! And speaking of snow, things can get a little dicey with icy conditions and drivers not quite ready for winter weather. So, drive carefully and keep your eyes peeled for potential slowdowns. Despite the potential hazards, the scenery is absolutely worth it!