Devils Head

Devils Head

Usa, north-america

Length

N/A

Elevation

2,786 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

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!

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Road Details

Country
Usa
Continent
north-america
Max Elevation
2,786 m
Difficulty
hard

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