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
easyLoop Road of Everglades in Florida: watch out for alligators
🇺🇸 Usa
Everglades National Park's Loop Road: Get ready for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the heart of Florida! This hidden gem, also known as County Road 94 or Big Cypress Loop Road, begins and ends along US Hwy 41. Just 40 miles from Miami, it's an easily accessible escape. Clocking in at 24 miles, this isn't your average Sunday drive. The eastern 7 miles are paved, leading to the Loop Road Environmental Education Center (perfect for a picnic!). After that, it's all gravel and dirt – raw and real. During the summer wet season (May-October), be warned: parts of the road can be underwater! High-clearance vehicles are recommended, but in dry weather, most cars can manage with a little patience and slow speeds. Watch out for potholes! The rugged appearance hints at abandoned development dreams, adding a layer of intrigue to the journey. Located within the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area, this is a slow-paced exploration. Plan for at least 1.5 hours, but trust me, you'll want to take longer. Traffic is minimal, so prepare to cruise at 20mph or less. The Loop Road snakes through Collier, Monroe, and Miami-Dade counties, showcasing a diverse range of habitats. South of the Tamiami Trail, it provides access to the national preserve's more remote areas. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, especially alligators – they're everywhere! This road puts you right in the heart of the action, averaging just 18 inches above the surrounding waterscape. Stop at the culverts and bridges, listen, and look closely – you never know what you'll spot. Legend has it that Al Capone had a hunting lodge here, but don't expect any gangster sightings today!
hardWhere is the Canwell Glacier Trail?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! The Canwell Glacier Trail in Alaska's Valdez-Cordova Census Area (think Denali National Park vibes) is calling your name. This isn't your average Sunday drive; we're talking about a 7.87-mile trek following the Canwell Glacier's lateral moraine. Once upon a time, this area was a military ski training ground, which probably tells you something about the terrain! Expect a mix of gravel and some seriously chunky rocks under your tires. You'll be navigating stream crossings and tackling steep climbs, so a high-clearance 4x4 is a must. Trust me, this isn't a trip for the faint of heart. This trail tops out at a whopping 4,822 feet, potentially making it one of Alaska's highest roads! Situated in the Delta Mountains of the Alaska Range, you'll be perched on the glacier's southern moraine, soaking in views that'll blow your mind. Just a heads up: the weather can change in a heartbeat, and the wind can be intense, so be prepared. Your destination? A hut built by the Alaska Alpine Club – a perfect spot to rest up after a day of conquering this epic Alaskan trail.
moderateAbajo Loop Scenic Backway
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're anywhere near southeastern Utah, specifically San Juan County, you NEED to carve out some time for the Abajo Loop Scenic Backway. This isn't just a drive; it's an adventure! Think 39 miles of pure, unadulterated mountain bliss looping through the Abajo Mountains, just north of Blanding. We're talking serious elevation changes here, folks, climbing to almost 11,000 feet! The road itself is a single-lane dirt/gravel track, so be prepared for a bumpy, rocky ride inside Manti-La Sal National Forest. High clearance is your friend, and maybe leave the RV at home for this one. Passenger vehicles can usually handle it late spring through fall, but definitely check conditions in Blanding beforehand, especially after rain – it can become impassable! But trust me, the views are worth it. We are talking breathtaking scenery all the way. You'll be treated to incredible vistas, including views of the southern part of Canyonlands National Park that are simply out of this world. Seriously, bring your camera, because you're going to want to document every single twist and turn (and there are plenty!). From desert landscapes and red rock canyons to towering mountains, you'll find more than a few spots to stop and soak it all in!
extremeMarcellina Pass
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Wanna tackle a seriously epic mountain pass in the heart of Colorado? Then Marcellina Pass is calling your name! This beast clocks in at a whopping 10,343 feet above sea level, nestled in Gunnison County. Heads up: you'll need a 4x4 for this one. We're talking Forest Road 826, a gravel track that winds its way up through Gunnison National Forest northwest of Crested Butte. But fair warning, this route isn't for the faint of heart. Keep a close eye on the weather forecast, because Mother Nature can throw some serious curveballs here. We're talking avalanches, heavy snow, landslides – the works! Plus, expect a bit of rockiness and mud along the way, and icy patches. But the views? Oh man, the views make it all worthwhile!