
Get behind the wheels for Yangi Daban, one of Earth’s highest roads
China, asia
14.8 km
5,899 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for Yangi Daban in China's Xinjiang region! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a lung-busting climb to 5,899 meters (that's 19,353 feet!). Forget pavement; this is a raw, rugged track demanding a 4x4 and nerves of steel.
From the G219, it's a mere 14.8 kilometers (9.19 miles) to the top, but hold on tight – you'll be battling gradients up to 18%! That's nearly a kilometer of vertical gain, averaging a 6.56% incline.
But the real challenge is the altitude. The risk of altitude sickness is very real. And weather? Expect it all: fierce winds, rapid changes, and bone-chilling cold. Winter temps can plummet to a ridiculous -55°C! But if you dare to brave it, the views from the top are out of this world. This is easily one of the highest roads in China.
Where is it?
Get behind the wheels for Yangi Daban, one of Earth’s highest roads is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 36.5887, 101.9292
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 14.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,899 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 36.5887, 101.9292
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