Arizona Snowbowl is one of the highest roads of Arizona
Usa, north-america
11.2 km
2,912 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trip fans, listen up! Let's talk Arizona Snowbowl, a ski resort perched way up high in Coconino County. We're talking serious altitude here—9,553 feet above sea level! This place is nestled in the Coconino National Forest, just a hop, skip, and a jump—12 miles, to be exact—outside of Flagstaff in north-central Arizona.
You'll find this gem clinging to the western side of Mount Humphreys in the San Francisco Peaks. The road? All paved, baby! It's called Snow Bowl Road, and it's ready for you.
Now, heads up: this climb is no joke. Snow Bowl Road throws some serious 11% gradients at you. Starting from Highway 180, you've got a 7-mile push to the top, gaining a whopping 2,200 feet along the way. That works out to an average gradient of around 6%, so get ready for some switchbacks! But trust me, the views are SO worth it.
Where is it?
Arizona Snowbowl is one of the highest roads of Arizona is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 42.8456, -95.7656
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 11.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,912 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 42.8456, -95.7656
Related Roads in north-america
moderateMeadow Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're anywhere near Flathead County, Montana, you NEED to check out Meadow Peak. We're talking a summit sitting pretty at 6,709 feet! The road up? Let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. Think gravel, rocks, and a whole lotta bump and grind. Seriously, a 4x4 isn't just recommended, it's practically mandatory. And heads up, this road's usually a no-go from October to June, thanks to Mother Nature's mood swings. But trust me, the payoff is HUGE. At the top, you'll find an honest-to-goodness fire lookout tower (still active, built in '57!), and views that'll knock your socks off. We're talking a full 360 degrees of pure Montana bliss. Expect a steep-ish hike to the top, but those views? Totally worth the leg burn! Get ready for some serious Instagram-worthy moments!
hardHow long is Trail Creek Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Nestled on the border of Blaine and Custer counties in Idaho, Trail Creek Road is a mountain drive you won't soon forget. Clocking in at just over 40 miles, this road (also known as 408) winds its way from Ketchum to Highway 93, near the tiny town of Chilly. The pavement doesn’t last long, quickly giving way to gravel. Be prepared for a good chunk of the road to be dirt and rocks that might just be plotting to eat your tires! The views are stunning, but keep an eye out – there's a crazy steep drop-off and sections where it's practically a one-lane gravel track. You don’t need a 4x4, but be ready for some rocks and potholes. This drive is a legit challenge. Seriously, not for newbie mountain drivers – one wrong move and you’re in trouble. That's why you won't see big rigs or trailers allowed. Expect steep climbs, and there's a good chance you'll learn how to change a flat. Seriously, check that spare tire (full-size, not a donut!) before you go, and make sure it’s in tip-top shape. Rockslides and washouts aren't uncommon. Keep your eyes glued to the road, even though the view is incredible. Give yourself 1-2 hours to conquer this road without stops, though you'll probably want to pad that time to soak in the scenery. It all depends on the road conditions and how often you pull over to take photos. Topping out at over 7,900 feet above sea level at Trail Creek Summit, this gravel road is impassable in winter. It's closed when the snow piles up, opening again when the weather warms up. Winter often brings damage from avalanches of dirt and rock.
hardWhy is it called Mount Norquay?
🇨🇦 Canada
Okay, picture this: you're in Banff National Park, Alberta, ready for a quick jaunt up Mount Norquay. This mountain, named after a Manitoba premier, is calling your name! The Mt Norquay Scenic Drive is a fully paved road that snakes its way up to the Norquay Ski resort. It's only 5.8 km (3.6 miles), but don't let that fool you. You'll climb 318 meters with an average gradient of 5.48% plus tackle six seriously sharp hairpin turns (watch out for loose gravel!). Now, a secret for the adventurous: there's a super steep, unpaved service road north of the resort that climbs even higher, but that's a story for another day! Is it worth the drive? Absolutely! The views are incredible, especially of the town of Banff nestled in the valley. Sure, fog can happen, but catch it right, and you might see some alpenglow. Keep your eyes peeled for mule deer and bighorn sheep along the way. The best lookout is said to be at the meadow at the end of the road, but remember: this is grizzly country, so be aware!
hardWhy is it Called El Camino del Diablo?
🇺🇸 Usa
Dare to tackle El Camino del Diablo – the Devil's Highway – in Arizona? This isn't your Sunday drive; it's a backcountry adventure right along the Mexican border, so prior experience is a must. This historic route cuts through the Sonoran Desert. The name? Earned. It's sadly known as one of the deadliest migrant trails, with a tragic history. Clocking in at 120 miles along the southern US border, it winds through some seriously remote and arid landscapes. Forget pavement; expect unpaved, extremely rough conditions in sections. A high-clearance 4x4 is non-negotiable. You're on your own out there – no emergency or tow services. Is it worth it? Absolutely! The scenery is incredible: rugged mountains, flat desert expanses, cacti galore, shifting sand dunes, and old lava flows. But heads up! This trip demands detailed planning. No drinking water is available. You'll be trekking through active military bombing ranges, areas with unexploded ordnance, plus zones with illegal activity, abandoned mines, and potentially dangerous wildlife. Never attempt this journey solo. Avoid summer due to scorching heat. Even outside summer, be prepared for extreme conditions. Bring ample supplies, let people know your itinerary, and ensure your vehicle is in top shape.