Driving the Old Kern Canyon Road is not a piece of cake

Driving the Old Kern Canyon Road is not a piece of cake

Usa, north-america

Length

21.4 km

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for Old Kern Canyon Road in California's Kern County! Nestled in the Sequoia National Forest, this 13.3-mile paved route (aka County Road 214) is a real adventure. Forget wide-open highways; this is a winding, twisting climb right along the Kern River's southeast side. Think hairpin turns and narrow lanes, but also think stunning views. It's definitely not a boring drive! Just so you know, CA Highway 178 now bypasses it.

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Usa
Continent
north-america
Length
21.4 km
Difficulty
moderate

Related Roads in north-america

The unforgettable road to Dunraven Pass, the highest pass in Yellowstoneeasy

The unforgettable road to Dunraven Pass, the highest pass in Yellowstone

🇺🇸 Usa

Hey, fellow adventurers! Ever heard of Dunraven Pass? This stunner sits way up high in Wyoming's Yellowstone National Park, clocking in at a cool 8,917 feet above sea level. Named after some Irish dude who visited way back when, this is the highest drivable point inside the park. You'll find it on the Grand Loop Road – smooth pavement all the way! Just take it easy and stick to the speed limit as you cruise through this seriously mountainous section. Trust me, those panoramic views are worth the slower pace. This road has been around for a while; they originally built it back in 1915 and then paved it in the 40s. Clocking in at just over 16 miles, the road snakes between Canyon Village and Devil's Den. Keep your eyes peeled not just for the mind-blowing vistas, but also for the local wildlife! The Washburn Area is Grizzly Bear central, so stay alert. Speaking of Washburn Range, this pass is smack-dab in the middle of it. Now, a heads up: Mother Nature calls the shots here. Dunraven Pass is a total snow magnet. Usually closed from early October until late May or early June. Even in the summer, you might see some flurries. So, keep an eye on the weather reports before you go!

Metroz Mountainmoderate

Metroz Mountain

🇺🇸 Usa

Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! I've got a killer drive for you in Mineral County, Colorado: Metroz Mountain. We're talking serious altitude here, peaking at 11,748 feet! This isn't your average Sunday cruise, though. You'll find yourself on County Road 430, a rugged, gravel track through the Rio Grande National Forest. Expect a bumpy, rocky ride that might get your tires singing! Heads up: This road is typically snowed in from October to June, so plan your trip accordingly. If you're not comfortable navigating unpaved, mountainous terrain, maybe sit this one out. But, if you're up for an off-the-beaten-path experience with incredible views, Metroz Mountain is calling your name!

Panther Passmoderate

Panther Pass

🇺🇸 Usa

Okay, road trip lovers, buckle up for Panther Pass in Big Bend National Park, Texas! This beauty climbs to 5,774 feet above sea level in Brewster County and was built way back in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The road is paved, but hold your horses, not all vehicles are welcome! With hairpin turns and some serious steep grades (up to 15%), trailers longer than 20 feet and RVs over 24 feet might want to sit this one out. But if you're in the right ride, get ready for some mind-blowing views! As you wind your way up, you'll be treated to jaw-dropping vistas of the mountain peaks and the incredible desert landscape below. Trust me, the scenery alone is worth the trip!

Where is Spring Creek Pass?moderate

Where is Spring Creek Pass?

🇺🇸 Usa

Okay, adventure-seekers, let's talk Spring Creek Pass in southwest Colorado's Gunnison National Forest! This is one of the highest paved roads in the state, topping out at a whopping 10,901 feet. Following Colorado State Highway 149, the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, this 50-mile stretch from the town of to the historic city of has a few tight switchbacks and spots. Don't worry, though, most folks should find it manageable, even with that 7.5% max gradient. It's a narrow, two-lane road, but here's the cool part: it's maintained year-round! Snowplows keep it clear in the winter, but keep your wits about you, as conditions can change quickly. Get ready for some serious mountain scenery!