Driving through the scenic Monarch Pass in Colorado
Usa, north-america
95.43 km
3,448 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, road trip enthusiasts, let's talk about Monarch Pass! This Colorado gem straddles Gunnison and Chaffee counties in the heart of the Rockies and tops out at a cool 11,312 feet. You'll be cruising on U.S. Highway 50, a fully paved road stretching for about 59 miles between Gunnison and Poncha Springs.
Built back in the late 30s, this road isn't for the faint of heart. Expect some serious climbs and descents (we're talking 7% grades!), so downshift and take it easy. Watch out for tight turns, steep sections, and those infamous drop-offs – but don't worry, runaway truck ramps are there for emergencies! And keep an eye out for bears!
Speaking of climbs, the one from Maysville is a doozy – 10.4 miles with a 3,000-foot elevation gain! Give yourself about an hour to soak it all in, plus extra time for photo ops (trust me, you'll want them!).
The views are seriously epic, especially of the Sawatch Range. It's no wonder they filmed part of "Fast and Furious 7" here! At the summit, you'll find a gift shop and restaurant to refuel. If you are feeling adventurous, there's a minor gravel road at the summit that climbs to 11,922 feet above sea level.
Monarch Pass is usually open year-round, but Colorado winters can be intense. Expect heavy snow and potential closures during storms. Oh, and heads up – this area holds the state record for wind gusts! Thunderstorms are common too. Regulars might not even notice the sign for Old Monarch Pass Road near the summit.
Where is it?
Driving through the scenic Monarch Pass in Colorado is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 41.9303, -98.6831
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 95.43 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,448 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 41.9303, -98.6831
Related Roads in north-america
moderateHow long is Olympic Hot Springs Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Craving a Pacific Northwest escape? Head to Clallam County, Washington, near Port Angeles and Olympic National Park. There, just off the iconic US-101 (Olympic Highway), you'll find the legendary Olympic Hot Springs Road, also known as Elwha River Road. Now, here's the deal: This 8.5-mile stretch is *mostly* paved and nestled in the stunning Elwha Valley. But, Mother Nature had other plans. Since the Elwha River dams came down in 2014, floodwaters have wreaked havoc, leaving the road washed out in sections. Translation? It's closed to cars beyond Madison Falls parking lot. Bummer, right? But don't despair! This "road" has transformed into a hiker's and biker's paradise. Lace up your boots, grab your bike, and bring your furry friend (on a leash, of course!). Expect narrow, steep sections and prepare to be wowed. The views? Absolutely incredible! Just remember, winter weather can sometimes close the road to everyone, so check conditions before you go. Get ready for an unforgettable experience, even if it's not quite the drive you expected!
hardDriving the 4x4 Road to the Lookout at Greenstone Mountain in BC
🇨🇦 Canada
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Greenstone Mountain in British Columbia is calling your name! This peak tops out at 1,798m (5,898ft) and offers incredible views from the historic Greenstone Fire Lookout near Kamloops. Heads up: the lookout's not abandoned! The Logan Lake ATV Club totally revamped it with a fresh roof, paint job, and *amazing* triple-pane windows. Seriously, the views are worth the drive alone. Plus, there's an outhouse and picnic table! The road up, Greenstone Road, is all unpaved goodness, about 21.5 km (13.35 miles) from the Trans-Canada Highway. Expect a steady climb, gaining 1,202m in elevation. Most of the road is pretty manageable, but the last 300 meters? Buckle up! It's steep, rocky, and might test your off-roading skills. You can drive up to the communication towers, then it's a quick hike to the real summit and the fire lookout. Keep in mind, you're in Greenstone Mountain Provincial Park, so this road is usually snowed in during winter and opens around the first week of June. Also, watch out for muddy patches if it's been raining!
extremeWhere is Aldrich Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through Grant County, Oregon, you've gotta check out Aldrich Mountain! This peak, nestled in the Malheur National Forest south of Dayville, isn't just another pretty viewpoint – it's got a fire lookout at the summit that offers killer views of the Aldrich Mountains and the central Oregon wilderness. The road, Forest Service Road 2150, is all unpaved goodness – think smooth gravel and dirt. Most cars can handle it in dry weather, but watch out for washboarding or loose rocks if your ride's low to the ground. It's wide enough for two cars most of the way, but it gets a bit narrower and steeper near the top. It’s a 14.5-mile (23.3 km) drive from the junction to the summit. It’s a steady climb, nothing too crazy. Just a heads-up: fill up your tank in Dayville because there are no services once you hit that Forest Service road. And forget about cell service. The road's usually snowed in from late fall 'til June. But from July to September, when the road's dry and the lookout is staffed, it’s the perfect time to make the trip. Keep an eye out for deer and elk – they love to dart across the road. Storms can roll in fast at that altitude, turning the dirt slick. And after a windy day, watch for fallen trees. Always pack a spare tire and an emergency kit.
moderateIs the road to Cold Springs Summit paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, listen up! Let me tell you about Cold Springs Summit, a hidden gem in the heart of California's Madera County. We're talking about a lofty perch sitting pretty at 7,326 feet above sea level! This is the high point along the legendary Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, also known as the "Secret Yosemite" Byway – and trust me, it lives up to the name. The whole route is a 83-mile adventure with stretches of smooth pavement and a bit of bumpy unpaved action (don't worry, your average car can handle it). Just a heads up, this beauty is a summer fling! Cold Springs Summit is typically open from June to October, giving you a limited window to experience its magic. So, is it worth the trek? Absolutely! You'll be cruising through the Sierra National Forest, soaking in views that'll make your jaw drop. Park the car, take a little woodland stroll, and BAM! You're overlooking a lush meadow, framed by towering pines, with the mighty Madera Mountain watching over everything. Plus, a quick detour down a side road leads to Chilcoot Lake, perfect for a little extra exploration! And yes, there are restrooms. Bonus!