Explore the Scenic Beauty of Alberta Provincial Highway 40
Canada, north-america
1,021 km
2,217 m
easy
Year-round
# Alberta Highway 40: A Must-Drive Alpine Adventure
If you're looking for one of Canada's most stunning road trips, Highway 40 in Alberta absolutely delivers. This epic 1,021 km (634 miles) stretch winds from the small mountain town of Coleman in the southwest all the way up to Grande Prairie in the northwest—and trust me, every kilometer is worth it.
You'll know this route by a few names: Highway 40, the Bighorn Highway, or the Kananaskis Trail. Fair warning though—some sections are paved while others are gravel, so come prepared for a bit of variety.
The real showstopper? Highwood Pass, where you'll summit at an impressive 2,217m (7,273ft)—the highest elevation of any highway crossing in Canada. You'll be cruising right near the treeline, surrounded by snow patches that stubbornly stick around even during summer months. It's genuinely spectacular, but heads up: this section closes annually from December 1 to June 14, and winter weather can shut things down without warning elsewhere on the route.
What makes this drive truly special is the wildlife and scenery. Throughout your journey, you'll spot bears, elk, moose, mountain goats, and coyotes roaming against a backdrop of jaw-dropping mountain vistas. The Canadian Rockies frame every turn, making this one of those road trips that'll have you stopping constantly for photos.
Whether you're after a day trip or a longer adventure, Highway 40 captures the raw beauty of western Alberta in a way that'll stay with you long after you've returned home.
Where is it?
Explore the Scenic Beauty of Alberta Provincial Highway 40 is located in Canada (north-america). Coordinates: 56.1537, -107.6203
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 1,021 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,217 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 56.1537, -107.6203
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhere is Crystal Lake?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading to Crystal Lake in Montana? Picture this: you're cruising about 20 miles south of Lewistown, right in the heart of Montana. You'll be climbing to over 6,000 feet, so expect some steep grades. The road, Crystal Lake Road, starts out paved, sometimes nice and wide, sometimes a little narrow, but then it turns to gravel for the last 5.7 miles of its 21.5-mile length. Keep in mind, being up in the Big Snowy Mountains, that last stretch can be closed in the winter, and the lake itself freezes over. But trust me, the views make it all worthwhile! You'll find campgrounds at the end of the road, ready for you to pitch your tent.
moderateWhy is it called Conway Summit?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, let's talk Conway Summit in California's Mono County! This isn't just any drive; it's a high-altitude adventure reaching 8,143 feet! Named after a local legend, John Andrew Conway, this fully paved stretch of U.S. Highway 395 is the highest point on the road. Prepare for a feast for the eyes! The views of Mono Lake and the Sierra Nevada are seriously stunning. The drive itself is about 19.5 miles long, cruising north to south from Willow Springs to the town of Lee Vining, right on Mono Lake's edge. Heads up, though: being in the Eastern Sierras, Conway Summit is usually open year-round, but Mother Nature sometimes throws a curveball with temporary closures in winter. Snow can get intense! Want to go even higher? Just east of the pass, there's a little gravel road that climbs to 8,415 feet where the radio towers are. Word of warning: it's steep (like, 8% steep!), and you'll definitely want a 4x4 to handle it. Get ready for an epic adventure!
moderateLos Altares Road
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! If you find yourself in Durango, Mexico, you HAVE to check out Los Altares. This isn't just a drive; it's an experience. Imagine cruising along a perfectly paved road, snaking between towering rock formations and lush forests. We're talking seriously stunning scenery here. The whole stretch is about 76 kilometers, connecting the sweet little town of Los Altares with Ciénega de Nuestra Señora. And get this: both towns sit at a cool 2,500 meters above sea level, so you're getting some serious altitude with breathtaking views. Trust me, this is one road trip that'll leave you speechless!
hardWhere is Gates Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising west of Tucson, Arizona? You NEED to hit Gates Pass! This scenic route punches right through the Tucson Mountains at a lofty 3,179 feet. Built way back in 1883 and named after local legend Thomas Gates, it's a local fave for good reason. Clocking in at just under 5 miles, Gates Pass Road connects Tucson to Kinney Road. But don't let the short distance fool you! This drive is an experience. Be warned: it's narrow, winding, and steep, with gradients hitting a max of 13% in spots! You're hugging the edge of the mountain, so keep your eyes on the road. Big rigs (over 40-50 feet) aren't allowed, and some folks prefer the Ajo Road route to avoid the thrills. But oh, those views! Gates Pass is famous for its breathtaking desert scenery. Picture saguaros dotting the slopes and panoramic vistas stretching as far as the eye can see. And the sunsets? Legendary! Pack your camera, find a scenic overlook, and prepare to be amazed. It's the perfect spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon or catch a summer thunderstorm rolling across the valley. Trust me, Gates Pass is worth every twist and turn!