Driving the scenic Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii
Usa, north-america
31 km
1,219 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits on the Chain of Craters Road! Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this epic 19-mile drive will take you on a wild ride from the 4,000-foot Kīlauea Summit all the way down to sea level and back up again.
Opened in '65, this road has a bit of a history with the fiery landscape. It was even partially buried back in '69 by the Maunaulu eruption! Don't worry, it was realigned and reopened in '79. You can even spot remnants of the old road in places where the lava flows from about 40 years ago covered it. Since '68, the road ends where it's been swallowed by more recent flows.
Located inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this paved, winding road is accessible to all 2WD vehicles. The views are mind-blowing, but be prepared for some steep sections as you descend over 3,700 feet – that's over 1,100 meters! There's even a hairpin turn thrown in for good measure, but generally, the drive is pretty manageable.
Just take it slow, especially if it's foggy or raining, as the road can get slippery. Speaking of rain, always check conditions before heading out, as volcanic activity can be unpredictable and hazardous. Pack for anything – hot sun, strong winds, or sudden showers. Flashlights are a must if you're out after dark. And be aware that volcanic fumes are often present.
While it’s only about a 45-minute drive if you go straight through, plan for at least 2.5 hours to really soak it all in. This road is like a front-row seat to the Big Island's ongoing creation! Expect to see craters, lava flows, petroglyphs, and maybe even some active lava. There are also some great hikes and incredible overlooks along the way.
Important note: There are no services along this road, so fill up your gas tank and pack plenty of water before you go. Trust me, the views are worth it, but preparation is key!
Where is it?
Driving the scenic Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 37.9468, -98.8823
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 31 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,219 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 37.9468, -98.8823
Related Roads in north-america
hardMount Jefferson
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventurers, listen up! If you're in Montana's Madison County and craving a serious off-road challenge, Mount Jefferson is calling your name. We're talking a lung-busting climb to 9,481 feet in the rugged Tobacco Root Mountains. Now, fair warning: this isn't your Sunday cruise. The road is gravel, and things get rocky, bumpy, and tippy – you've been warned! It's generally snowed in from October to June, so plan accordingly. You'll find this beast within the beautiful Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. This trail is strictly for experienced 4x4 drivers, and definitely not for the faint of heart. Expect steep inclines and potentially muddy conditions if it's been raining. But if you're prepared for the challenge, the views from the top are absolutely epic! Just remember to pack your nerve and your off-road skills. You’ll need them!
hardDriving the paved road to Westgard Pass in California
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, let's talk Westgard Pass! Nestled high in Inyo County, California, this beauty clocks in at a cool 7,335 feet above sea level. You'll find it tucked away in the eastern-central part of the state, winding its way between Big Pine and Oasis. This stretch of California State Route 168 is just over 37 miles long and named after a highway visionary, Anton L. Westgard. The road itself is paved, but hold on – it’s a twisty, turny adventure! Think narrow roads and hairpin turns with serious drop-offs. If you're all about straight, easy driving, this might not be your jam. But trust me, take it slow the first time, and you'll be itching to come back. And for those feeling adventurous, there’s a slightly rougher gravel road south of the pass, the White Mountain Road, with some incredible views. Just a heads up: this pass is a no-go zone in winter, usually opening up again around mid to late April. But when it’s open? Prepare for pristine scenery and seriously grand vistas. Located within the Inyo National Forest, you'll be treated to views of the White Mountains and the Sierras that just don't quit. Basically, the whole drive is a photo op!
hardFowler-Hilliard Hut
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're looking for a real off-road challenge in the heart of Colorado's Eagle County, point your rig toward Eiseman Hut. Perched way up high at 11,522 feet, accessing this mountain refuge is not for the faint of heart. The "road," and I use that term loosely, is a super steep, gravelly beast with switchbacks that'll make your head spin. Seriously, think twice about driving it unless you’re in a proper 4x4 and know what you're doing. This isn’t a Sunday drive, folks. Typically, you can expect the route to be clear of snow from June to October, but even in summer, be ready for some wild weather changes. Built back in '88, the hut itself is a tribute to mountaineers Ann Fowler and Ed Hilliard, so the views are incredible. Just remember, preparation is key if you want to conquer this one!
hardWhere is Taylor Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Taylor Mountain in Colorado's Chaffee County is calling your name! This isn't just any mountain; we're talking a whopping 12,791 feet above sea level! Nestled in the San Isabel National Forest, this route, also known as Taylor Mountain Trail (Chaffee County Road 228), is a real beauty. Heads up, this is a proper off-road experience. We're talking unpaved, rocky, and steep! Think switchbacks that’ll test your skills and some tight shelf sections where you'll want to keep your eyes peeled for oncoming traffic. You'll definitely need a 4x4 with good clearance for this one. The adventure kicks off near Monarch on US-50, winding its way up for about 5.44 miles. Don't let the short distance fool you, though — you'll be climbing over 3,200 feet, so get ready for a seriously steep average gradient of over 11%! Plan your trip carefully, because Mother Nature calls the shots here. Expect this route to be snowed in from late October until at least late June or early July. But trust me, those views from the top are worth the wait!