Benson Ridge
Usa, north-america
N/A
2,906 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Wanna conquer a seriously epic mountain pass? Then point your wheels towards Benson Ridge in New Mexico's Otero County. We're talking about a sky-high perch at 9,534 feet within the gorgeous Lincoln National Forest.
Now, fair warning: this isn't your Sunday drive. Forest Road 223 (aka Dark Canyon Road) is a rugged beast of gravel and rocks. Translation? You absolutely need 4x4. Plus, it's a no-go zone in winter. Heights not your thing? Maybe skip this one, because it's a pretty steep climb. But if you're game for an off-road challenge with killer views, Benson Ridge is calling your name!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 2,906 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
hardIs the Highway 180 Route Worth Taking from Flagstaff to Grand Canyon?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: You're cruising from Flagstaff toward the Grand Canyon, soaking in the Arizona sunshine. That's Highway 180 for you! Also known as Fort Valley Road and AZ Route 180, this paved gem delivers stunning views the whole way. As you get closer to the mountains, prepare to be wowed by the Kaibab National Forest and the towering Humphrey’s and Kendrick peaks. Seriously, have your camera ready! The drive itself is just under 50 miles (80.30 km) going mostly straight across the plateau, but it's the views to the east that steal the show. Budget about an hour and a half, but remember, traffic can play a part, so avoid rush hour if you can. Heads up, though! This road climbs pretty high, topping out at around 8,070 feet (2,460m) near the San Francisco Peaks. Winter can bring some serious snowfall, making things slippery. So, definitely check the weather before you go!
moderateHancock Summit, a climb on the legendary Extraterrestrial Highway
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trippers, buckle up for the Extraterrestrial Highway (Nevada State Route 375)! This isn't your average desert cruise. We're talking a 159km (98.9 miles) stretch of pavement that slices through the heart of Nevada, from the ghost town of Crystal Springs all the way to Warm Springs. This baby winds through Lincoln County, hitting a peak of 1,711m (5,613ft) in the Pahranagat Range at Hancock Summit. The views? Epic. Vast desert landscapes as far as the eye can see. The drive? Mostly smooth sailing on pavement, though there are some steep climbs to keep things interesting. Keep an eye on the weather, as conditions can change quickly. And, of course, this is the Extraterrestrial Highway, so don't be surprised if you spot something... unusual. UFO sightings are practically a local pastime around here. Get ready for a truly out-of-this-world adventure!
hardSilver Run Lake
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, fellow adventurers, let's talk about Silver Run Lake! This beauty is nestled high in Wyoming's Carbon County, sitting pretty at a cool 10,098 feet above sea level. Getting there is half the fun, though! You'll be tackling Forest Service Road 396, a gravel track that's definitely not for the faint of heart. Think rocky, bumpy, and sometimes seriously tippy. A high-clearance 4x4 is a MUST – leave the sports car at home for this one! The road is typically closed from September to June due to snow, so plan your trip accordingly. This trail is STEEP, so be prepared for some serious climbing. And if you're not a fan of heights, this might not be your cup of tea. Plus, rain turns the road into a muddy mess, adding another layer of challenge. But trust me, the views are worth it! The road actually climbs even higher, topping out around 10,308 feet, before you reach the lake. It's a real lung-buster, but the stunning alpine scenery is the ultimate reward for your efforts.
moderateInterstate 70 is a remote scenic drive in Utah
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along Interstate 70 in central Utah, a total American road trip dream. This fully paved beauty stretches for 231 miles, connecting I-15 near Cove Fort all the way to the Colorado border. Get ready for a visual feast! This isn't your average highway – we're talking mind-blowing landscapes. Think dramatic deserts, incredibly deep canyons, towering cliffs, and rock formations that look like they're straight out of a sci-fi movie. Definitely keep your camera handy as you wind through Spotted Wolf Canyon; the views are seriously mesmerizing. Heads up, you'll climb to a max elevation of 7,886 feet at Emigrant Pass, so snow is a real possibility. The road is generally open year-round, but winter storms can sometimes cause temporary closures, so keep an eye on the forecast. The drive itself takes around 3-4 hours non-stop. But here's the kicker: I-70 through Utah is one of the most isolated stretches of interstate you'll ever encounter. For a whopping 106 miles between Green River and Salina, you won't find a single service stop. That's right—no gas, no snacks, no restrooms! And, once you commit, there's no turning back. I-70 is one of the rare interstates that doesn't actually go through any major cities. Be prepared and make sure you’re ready for a long haul before you set out.