Cadillac Summit Road, a trip to the highest point on the east coast of the USA
Usa, north-america
5.31 km
457 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along Cadillac Summit Road in Maine's Acadia National Park, heading up to the highest point on the U.S. East Coast – Cadillac Mountain! This paved road, all 3.3 miles of it, winds up the north and eastern side of the mountain, starting from Park Loop Road.
Built back in the day (think 1920s!), this scenic drive climbs 945 feet, averaging a 5.42% grade. Keep in mind: no RVs or trailers over 21 feet allowed, so leave the big rigs behind. Heads up, the road's typically closed from December to late April, weather depending, but some sections might stay open.
As you ascend, get ready for some seriously amazing panoramic views. This is *the* spot to catch what people call "the nation's first sunrise," though technically that's only in fall and winter! At the top, you'll find a big parking lot, restrooms, and even a gift shop! It gets super crowded in summer, so reservations are now required during peak season (May-October). And on a clear day? You might even spot Mount Katahdin way off in the distance!
Just a friendly reminder: take it slow, especially near those steep roadside cliffs. It can get congested, especially during tourist season. There are tons of little observation points perfect for soaking in the scenery, so use them. Keep your eyes on the road, stick to the 25 mph speed limit, and be careful getting in and out of your car. Trust me, you won't regret this drive!
Where is it?
Cadillac Summit Road, a trip to the highest point on the east coast of the USA is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.9747, -95.6551
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 5.31 km
- Max Elevation
- 457 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 40.9747, -95.6551
Related Roads in north-america
moderateHow to Get to Cabo Pulmo by Car on the Baja California Peninsula?
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, picture this: you're cruising the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, about 62 miles north of Cabo San Lucas, heading towards Cabo Pulmo, a hidden gem nestled in the Gulf of California. The road, Camino Cabo Este, is an adventure in itself! Think a mix of pavement and rugged dirt tracks winding through Cabo Pulmo National Park. This isn't your average highway; you might even encounter waves splashing onto the road before a hurricane hits! While a 4x4 isn't essential, you'll definitely want a vehicle with some ground clearance. Oh, and pro tip: avoid driving at night – the cows own the road after dark! Stretching for about 62 miles from El Campamento to San José del Cabo, this route serves up some serious eye candy. We're talking miles of untouched beaches, dramatic coastline, and the vast, sparkling Pacific Ocean. Cabo Pulmo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is truly special. It's home to a coral reef that's roughly 20,000 years old – one of the oldest and most unique on the planet! Just a heads up: electricity is mainly from generators and solar panels, and ATMs are non-existent, so cash is king! Get ready for an unforgettable Baja California Sur experience!
hardWhere is Hole in the Wall?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventurers, because Hole in the Wall Road in Death Valley is calling your name! You'll find this wild ride smack-dab in Inyo County, California, right in the heart of Death Valley National Park. So, how long is this off-road escapade? It clocks in at about 6 miles, starting from CA-190 (just under 6 miles east of Furnace Creek Inn). The first 4 miles to Hole-in-the-Wall are doable with high clearance, but after that, you'll definitely need 4x4 to conquer the rough terrain. Word to the wise: it gets even tougher after you pass through the "hole"! The road eventually dead-ends at an old mining prospect, though it doesn't look like much ever came of it. Expect a totally unpaved surface. And here's the deal: flash floods happen, so road conditions can change on a dime. After a storm, even 4-wheel drive might not save you. Always check Death Valley's official website for the latest updates before you go. Double-check your vehicle, pack tons of water (for you and your radiator!), bring some grub, and take it slow and steady. The views are amazing, but safety first!
hardWilson Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're in San Miguel County, Colorado, itching for an adventure? Then Wilson Peak is calling your name! This beast clocks in at a whopping 12,201 feet, making it one of Colorado's highest drives. Forget smooth tarmac – this is a proper old mining road, all gravel, rocks, and seriously bumpy. You'll need a 4x4 with high clearance to even think about tackling it. Trust me, a standard sedan will be crying before you even get started. Fair warning: this baby is usually snowed in from September to July, so plan your trip accordingly. Plus, it's steep! And if it's wet, expect mud, mud, and more mud. Not for the faint of heart, especially if you're scared of heights. But oh, the views! Nestled in the Lizard Head Wilderness within the Uncompahgre National Forest, the scenery is absolutely epic. Wilson Peak is a Colorado icon, and some even call it "Coors Peak." You might also recognize it from Quentin Tarantino's "The Hateful Eight". Experienced off-roaders will be in heaven. Just be prepared for a wild ride!
moderateTraveling along the scenic Covington Flat Road in California
🇺🇸 Usa
Ready for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Joshua Tree National Park? Head to Covington Flat Road, a hidden gem in Southern California! This unpaved road winds through stunning desert scenery and is your gateway to some of the park’s most impressive Joshua trees (the area was named after a local rancher), junipers, and pinyon pines. You'll find both Upper and Lower Covington Flat Roads. At around 9.6 miles long, this backcountry route starts on La Contenta Road near Yucca Valley and takes you to a parking lot that’s the trailhead for Covington Crest. Make a quick 5-minute hike to the top of Eureka Peak! Keep in mind cell service is spotty, so grab a map before you go. Plus, a side trip off Covington Flat Road will get you to Nolina Peak, at about 4,908 feet high. A high-clearance vehicle is a must, and 4WD is highly recommended, especially after rain or snow. The road can get pretty rutted. The drive climbs to a peak of 5,173 feet, so expect some steep sections towards the end. You'll be rewarded with incredible views of Palm Springs, the surrounding mountains, and the Morongo Basin.