
Eightmile Mesa
Usa, north-america
N/A
2,494 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk about Eightmile Mesa in beautiful Archuleta County, Colorado! This gem sits way up high at 8,182 feet, nestled in the San Juan National Forest. You'll be cruising on FR-651, which is a gravel road that can get pretty rocky and bumpy β expect a bit of a tippy ride!
While a passenger car can make it with some careful driving, a 4x4 is definitely recommended, especially since this road is usually snowed-in from October to June. The destination is a lookout tower built in 1963, used during emergencies. Always keep an eye on the weather forecast, and stay away if there's any chance of thunderstorms!
The reward for your efforts? Oh man, the views! From the summit, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramas of Pagosa Springs, the sprawling mesa, and the majestic San Juan Mountains. It's a vista you won't soon forget!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 2,494 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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