Driving the scenic Mil Cumbres Road in Mexico
Mexico, north-america
237 km
980 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for the Carretera Mil Cumbres (One Thousand Hills Road) in Michoacán, Mexico! Officially known as Mexico 15 or Carretera Morelia-Toluca, this fully paved route stretches for 237 km (147 miles) from the vibrant city of Morelia to Toluca.
Get ready for a rollercoaster of endless twists and turns – seriously, if you're prone to motion sickness, maybe pack some ginger candies! The road climbs to a breathtaking 2,930m (9,612ft) near San José de la Cumbre before descending to 980m at Paso Ancho, offering a detour towards Tzitzio and the Tierra Caliente.
Picture this: you're hugging the edge of a canyon, winding between the towering mountains of Michoacán and the lower landscapes of Tierra Caliente. Keep your eyes peeled for sweeping views of the valleys below and, during the rainy season, stunning waterfalls cascading near the road. The scenery is truly unique – imagine driving through a pine forest with a desert valley unfolding beneath you, creating a tapestry of colors, especially magical during sunset.
Where is it?
Driving the scenic Mil Cumbres Road in Mexico is located in Mexico (north-america). Coordinates: 22.1663, -102.6696
Road Details
- Country
- Mexico
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 237 km
- Max Elevation
- 980 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 22.1663, -102.6696
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhere is Lippincott Mine Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, buckle up for Lippincott Mine Road in Death Valley National Park! This 7-mile beast, nestled in Inyo County, California, between Lone Pine and Stovepipe Wells, is NOT for the faint of heart (or your average sedan). Forget paved perfection; we're talking raw, unadulterated dirt all the way. This isn't a leisurely drive; it's a white-knuckle adventure demanding a 4x4 high-clearance vehicle and some serious off-roading chops. Seriously, if your ride isn't up to snuff, turn back now. Built way back in 1906 to access the Lippincott Mine, this old road is a shortcut, but it comes at a price. We're talking super steep grades, super narrow passages, and cliff-edge washouts that'll have you questioning your life choices. One wrong move and you're staring down a seriously steep drop – hundreds of feet, with not nearly enough of a slope to save you! The climb starts at 2,256 feet and tops out at a saddle at 3,876 feet. This saddle offers a stunning view, perfect for a breather (and maybe a little prayer). You'll be dodging boulders, navigating potential vehicle-breaking rocks, and battling Death Valley's infamous heat. Oh, and did I mention there's no cell service, no water, and no tow trucks? You're on your own out there! Despite the dangers, the scenery is epic. But don't get too distracted – keep your eyes on the road (what's left of it!). Remember, uphill traffic has the right-of-way. And be aware that the road can be closed after heavy rains. So, if you're feeling brave (and prepared!), Lippincott Mine Road promises an unforgettable, adrenaline-pumping experience. Just don't say I didn't warn you!
easyDriving the Icefields Parkway in the Canadian Rockies
🇨🇦 Canada
Get ready for the Icefields Parkway, a drive that'll blow your mind in Alberta, Western Canada! This isn't just a road; it's a front-row seat to big mountains, glaciers that have been around forever, and lakes so blue they look photoshopped. Seriously, it's one of the most scenic drives on Earth. Stretching 231 km (144 miles) through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, this north-south route connects the charming alpine town of Jasper (the main hub of Jasper National Park) with the picturesque Lake Louise in Banff National Park. Imagine starting near the Great Plains and then BAM! you're surrounded by the incredible mountain scenery of Banff and Jasper National Parks. It's forest, crag, and glacier views for days! The road, known as AB-93, is all paved, mostly two lanes with passing lanes sprinkled in. Fun fact: it was built way back in 1940. You'll climb to Bow Pass at 2,088m (6,850ft) above sea level, with Sunwapta Pass close behind at 2,069m (6,788ft). The road's usually open year-round, but winter can throw curveballs with closures. Snow tires and winter skills? Probably needed from mid-October to early May. Expect temporary closures after big snowfalls (crews need time to clear everything). Always check the forecast before you head out – rain can turn into snow any time of the year. Heads up: in winter, all the facilities along the parkway are closed. Think pristine lakes, ancient glaciers, crazy wildlife, and valleys that stretch forever. You'll wind through Banff and Jasper National Parks, a landscape packed with history and natural beauty that's hard to beat. Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, deer, black bears, and coyotes – wolves, grizzlies, and goats are rarer sightings. This drive is popular, so July and August can get busy (think up to 100,000 vehicles a month!). Pack a meal, fuel up in Lake Louise or Jasper, and check road conditions, especially in spring, fall, and winter. Hit the road early to dodge traffic and boost your chances of spotting wildlife. This parkway crosses high country, so conditions can change fast, and services are limited. Even in summer, bring layers! It's a minimum 3-5 hour drive without stops, but you'll want a full day (or two!) to soak it all in.
easyWhere is Salina Creek Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for a ride on Salina Creek Road! This hidden gem is snuggled in the heart of Utah's Manti-La Sal National Forest, just east of Salina. You'll be cruising on Forest Road 009, a well-maintained gravel track that hugs Salina Creek (you'll even cross it twice on bridges!). At around 12.3 miles long, it's a perfect little escape running between Convulsion Road up to Willow Creek and Skyline Drive Scenic Backway. Most cars can handle it in good weather, so no need for a heavy-duty 4x4 unless the weather turns. Keep in mind this beauty is a seasonal treat, typically open from spring until the snow flies again at the end of the year. And get ready for some serious altitude – you'll climb to a cool 9,009 feet above sea level!
moderateBlack Canyon Road
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! If you're cruising through Arizona and find yourself near the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, you HAVE to check out Black Canyon Road. This isn't your average paved highway – we're talking about a 15.5-mile gravel track that really takes you off the beaten path. Now, a regular car *might* make it, but I highly recommend something with a bit of clearance for peace of mind. Think slow and steady wins the race here; you'll want to take your time to soak up the scenery anyway! Be ready for a bit of washboarding and the occasional rut, but nothing too crazy if you're careful. Even though it feels like you're in the middle of nowhere, you're surprisingly close to civilization. Get ready for some incredible views – this drive is a real feast for the eyes!