Devils Head
Usa, north-america
N/A
2,786 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! We're heading to Devils Head in northern Arizona's Coconino County, a lava dome reaching a whopping 9,140 feet above sea level. This isn't your Sunday drive; Forest Road 557A to the top is a gravelly, rocky, and bumpy ride, so make sure your 4x4 is ready for some action!
Winter? Forget about it – this road's usually snowed in. But when it's open, experienced off-roaders will be in heaven. The summit might be dotted with communication towers, but the views? Absolutely stunning! Think sweeping vistas of Flagstaff, the majestic San Francisco Mountain, and the whole of northern Arizona unfolding before you.
Word to the wise: if unpaved mountain roads make you nervous, this might not be your cup of tea. It’s steep in places, and rain can turn the road into a muddy challenge. But if you're up for it, especially in the fall, it's SO worth it! The road is graded, but those switchbacks and hairpin turns demand your full attention. Keep an eye out for oncoming traffic and mountain bikers sharing the road. And near the top, you'll pass through an area still recovering from a massive wildfire back in '77 – a stark reminder of nature's power. Get ready for a memorable climb!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 2,786 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
extremeDare to Drive Cuesta de los Arrepentidos to Real de Catorce in Mexico
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, picture this: You're in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, about to embark on a real adventure to Real de Catorce, an almost 9,000-foot-high ghost town. Your chariot? It *has* to be a 4x4 because you're about to tackle Cuesta de los Arrepentidos, or Repentant's Slope. For nearly 7 miles, this wild, unpaved track snakes through the northern part of the state across the Sierra de Catorce range. It's a historical route, dating back to 1778, and until the tunnel was built, it was the *only* way in. You'll pass abandoned mines, ghost towns, defunct train stations, and the seemingly endless Wirikuta desert. The views? Incredible. The experience? Absolutely unforgettable – if you can handle it. This isn't a Sunday drive, folks. We're talking brutally steep climbs, a seriously narrow path, and nerve-wracking drop-offs into a canyon and dry riverbed. Leave the motorcycles and bikes at home. Highlights? The aptly named Paso del Diablo (Devil's Pass) and the eerie Socavón de la Purísima (Immaculate Conception’s Sinkhole) are the stuff of legends. Most folks come in from the east, taking a 17-mile cobblestone stretch off Highway 62. Then there's the Túnel Ogarrio – a long, dark tunnel that takes you right into town. It’s almost a mile and a half long and one-lane only, so hope no one's coming the other way! Legend has it there used to be a phone at the entrance to check for traffic but no one seems to use it anymore. Get ready for the ride of your life!
moderateDriving the scenic Six Mile Cove Road to Lake Mohave
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're looking for a hidden gem in Nevada? Check out Six Mile Cove Road! It's your access to a sweet little cove on Lake Mohave, right down in the southeast corner of the state near the Arizona line. Now, fair warning: this isn't your typical smooth highway cruise. This road is a 6.3-mile unpaved adventure that can get a little washboard-y in spots. Most cars and RVs can usually handle it, but honestly, you'll have a much better time (and save your suspension) if you're rolling in a 4WD. The cove itself is stunning, but heads up, it gets *packed* in the summer. Pro tip: roll in early on a Friday to snag the best spot. There's tons of room once you get to the waterfront, with plenty of parking. Just don't expect to be glued to your phone—cell service is spotty. The road begins from Mead-Davis Powerline Road and ends at the Cove. Get ready for an off-the-beaten-path experience!
hardMount Callaghan
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Nevada? Check out Mount Callaghan in Lander County! This beast tops out at 10,193 feet, making it one of the highest drives in the state. You can thank the communications tower up top (visible from Highway 305) for the road's existence. But be warned: this isn't your Sunday cruise. Expect a gravel and rocky track, bumpy and uneven at times as you wind your way up the Toiyabe Range. It’s usually snowed in during winter. Definitely for experienced off-roaders only! You’ll need 4x4 for sure, and a good head for heights is a must. The trail gets pretty steep in sections, and if it’s been raining, prepare for some serious mud. Your reward? Killer views from the top, next to that trusty communications tower.
moderateWhere is the Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trippers, listen up! If you find yourself in southwest Utah, you HAVE to carve out some time for the Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway. This 6-mile stretch of State Road 148, nestled within the Cedar Breaks National Monument, is seriously breathtaking. We're talking high altitude vibes here, folks. You'll climb from 9,900 feet to a staggering 10,600 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest drives in Utah! Keep your eyes peeled for those drop-dead gorgeous views of the Dixie National Forest and the vibrant, multi-colored rock formations of Cedar Breaks. Now, a few things to keep in mind: The road usually opens late May and closes between late October and early December, depending on the snow. The road is paved, but there are some steep sections (up to 4%), so take it easy. And remember, the speed limit through the park is a chill 30 mph – perfect for soaking in every single vista. Trust me, you'll want to stop at all the overlooks, so plan for some extra time. Camera is a MUST! Get ready for an unforgettable ride!