Can you drive to Highland Lakes in CA?
Usa, north-america
8 km
2,631 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through California's Alpine County, heading towards the stunning Highland Lakes. These twin alpine jewels sit way up high at 8,631 feet in the Stanislaus National Forest!
The adventure starts on Highland Lakes Road, a mostly dirt track that winds its way up to the lakes. The first mile is smooth pavement, but after that, get ready for some bumps! This narrow, steep, and twisty dirt road demands a high-clearance vehicle, and you'll be crawling along at 20 mph or less. There's even a small stream crossing that might splash you good early in the season, but by summer, it's usually just a puddle.
From the main highway, it's a 5-mile trek to the lakes. Keep in mind, this road is closed during the snowy months. But once you arrive, get ready to be wowed! The lakes are nestled in a breathtaking high alpine valley. Trust me, the views are worth the drive!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 8 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,631 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateLittle Molas Lake
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventurers, listen up! I've got a gem for you: Little Molas Lake in Colorado's San Juan County. This alpine beauty sits way up high at 10,935 feet! Getting there is half the fun. You'll jump off Highway 550 onto Forest Road 584, a roughly 0.9-mile gravel track that's usually open from late May to mid-October, depending on the snow. The good news? You don't need a fancy SUV — two-wheel drive is fine. Just keep an eye out for wandering livestock and wildlife, and take it slow (under 30 mph is wise). The road ends at a handy parking lot. The views are absolutely stunning, classic Colorado mountain scenery. Trust me, the drive is worth it for the bragging rights and the Instagram pics!
hardA scenic and worthwhile drive to Bear Creek Summit in ID
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Bear Creek Summit in the heart of Idaho! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a 7,536-foot high mountain pass nestled in Custer County, right in the White Knob Mountains within the Sawtooth National Forest. The road to the summit, Cherry Creek Summit Road (aka Forest Road 135), is pure, unadulterated dirt. Forget pavement; you're going off-road. While it's generally a pretty chill drive with no major obstacles, a high-clearance 4WD is your best bet, especially since it can get rocky. You can even make a full day of it and circle back to Sun Valley! Expect some steep climbs—we're talking gradients up to 13% in places. The whole shebang stretches for about 36 miles (57.93km), connecting Forest Road 208 to Forest Road 137. Budget around 3 hours for the journey, and definitely think twice about attempting it after rain, or you'll probably need that four-wheel drive. Prepare for amazing scenery and a proper off-the-grid experience!
moderateA drive to the top of Manastash Ridge
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, Washington road trippers, listen up! You HAVE to check out Manastash Ridge, known as "The Ridge" to those in the know. You'll find this beauty in central Washington, specifically Kittitas County. So, what's the deal? It's a paved road that clocks in at about 30.7 miles, connecting Ellensburg and Yakima in the Yakima Valley, running north to south. Be prepared for some steep sections as you climb to 2,706 feet above sea level. Get ready for awesome views as you cruise along Interstate 82 (I-82)!
extremeWhere is Rogers Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! We're headed to Rogers Peak in Inyo County, California, nestled within Death Valley National Park. This isn't your Sunday drive; it's a 10.7-mile journey to 10,003 feet above sea level! The road starts paved for about 3.8 miles, but then it turns into a proper unpaved adventure. You'll cruise past the eerie Charcoal Kilns, relics from the late 1800s. Keep an eye out, though – flash floods can change the road on a dime. How tough is it? Let's just say 4WD might be your best friend, especially after Thorndike Campground. Think steep climbs, ruts, and a generally rough and narrow gravel track. The last 2.75 miles are a leg-burner, hitting a 12% gradient to reach the communication tower at the summit. No RVs or trailers allowed. Plus, be prepared for winter and spring closures due to snow and ice. Before you conquer the peak, you'll hit Mahogany Flat Parking at 8,135 feet. The views? Absolutely breathtaking. This is one of those Death Valley backcountry roads that'll test your mettle – and reward you handsomely.