Cave Lake
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,713 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Cave Lake in south-central Colorado’s Chaffee County is calling your name. This ain't your Sunday drive. We're talking a real deal high-altitude experience, topping out at a whopping 12,181 feet! Seriously, this is one of the highest roads in the entire state.
Picture this: rocky, gravel roads winding through the majestic Rocky Mountains. You'll definitely need a 4x4 to conquer this beast. Trust me, you don't want to get stuck. And speaking of beasts, winter makes this road completely impassable, so plan accordingly.
Now, for the faint of heart, be warned: this trail is steep! Expect hairpin turns that will test your driving skills (and maybe your nerves). Oh, and heights? Yeah, they're a thing here. But the views? Totally worth it. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, keep going past the lake—a gravel road will take you even higher, up to 12,765 feet. Just a heads up: the wind can be fierce up here, year-round. And even in summer, snow isn’t out of the question. Bottom line: Cave Lake is an epic adventure for experienced drivers who aren't afraid of a little challenge!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,713 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhat is the highest paved road in every US State? The Ultimate List
🇺🇸 Usa
# Chasing State Summits: America's Most Epic Mountain Drives Ever wanted to drive to the literal top of your state? There's something magical about pushing your car to the highest point in the land—where the air gets thinner, the views get bigger, and your engine works harder than ever before. From the jaw-dropping Colorado Rockies to the historic mountain passes of the Appalachians, these are the roads that take you to the absolute peak. This isn't just about elevation numbers (though those are impressive). It's about experiencing the real challenges of high-altitude driving: those heart-pounding gradients, the sudden weather shifts that can catch you off guard, and the engineering marvels that make it all possible. Whether you're a seasoned mountain driver or just looking for your next adventure, these state summits deliver the kind of experiences that stick with you. Ready to explore? Our interactive map is your guide to discovering some of the most breathtaking roads across the country. Zoom in, plan your route, and get inspired for your next road trip. **Found a hidden gem?** If you know of an incredible mountain road that should be on everyone's radar, we want to hear about it! Send us your suggestions and help us build the ultimate collection of America's best driving routes.
extremeForest Road 227
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Forest Road 227 in Utah's Duchesne County! We're talking high altitude here – the entire road sits above 3,000 meters! Tucked away in the Ashley National Forest, this 14.16km (8.8 miles) stretch is no Sunday drive. Think gravel, think rocks, and be prepared for some seriously tricky sections. A 4x4 is your best friend on this one, and only tackle it when the weather's dry. Remember, you're high up, so be ready for anything Mother Nature throws your way, any time of year. Speaking of weather, this road's usually a no-go from October to June. It tops out at a whopping 3,165m (10,383ft), so winter is brutal. Even in summer, you might still hit some snow. Bottom line? Pack layers, keep an eye on the forecast, and get ready for some epic views!
hardHow long is the Elk Ridge Road Scenic Backway?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: You're cruising through Utah's Manti-La Sal National Forest, right on the edge of the Dark Canyon Wilderness, just south of Canyonlands National Park. You're on the Elk Ridge Road Scenic Backway, a 48-mile mix of dirt and gravel that’ll test your ride (and maybe your nerves a little!). Starting about 25 miles west of Blanding, near the junction of Utah Highways 95 and 275, this route climbs through the iconic "Bears Ears," topping out at a cool 8,700 feet on Elk Ridge. The views? Epic! We're talking Canyonlands National Park, Dark Canyon Wilderness Area, Monument Valley, and Bears Ears National Monument all in one glorious panorama, ending at Utah Highway 211 (SR-211). Keep in mind, this beauty is best tackled between June and October. High-clearance vehicles are your friend here, and AWD or 4WD might be a lifesaver. Rain or winter weather? This road becomes a no-go. There are also narrow sections where you might have to play nice and let another vehicle pass. Is it worth it? Absolutely! The views of the Henry and La Sal Mountains, plus all those canyons, are postcard-perfect. Just be prepared for a 4-hour (ish) drive, depending on the road’s mood. After a rainstorm, creek crossings can get intense, and mud can get slick, possibly leading to closures. And remember, there aren’t any facilities out there, so pack accordingly!
moderateIs the road to Anchorite Pass paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! I've got a gem for you: Anchorite Pass in Nevada! This high-altitude beauty tops out at 7,631 feet, placing you right in the heart of Mineral County, practically hugging the California border. The best part? Smooth sailing all the way! NV-359, your trusty paved path, leads you right to the summit. This pass is the highest point on this route. Now, fair warning: this is a true escape. We're talking 55 miles of pure, unadulterated road with absolutely zero services. So gas up and pack those snacks! The pass itself stretches for about 55 miles, cruising from Mono City, California, all the way to Hawthorne, Nevada. And honestly, the drive is pretty chill, mostly straight and easy, without crazy twists or climbs. Get ready for some wide-open Nevada scenery!