Heart Lake
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,653 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, listen up! You absolutely HAVE to check out Heart Lake in Hinsdale County, Colorado. We're talking seriously high altitude here – 11,984 feet! This isn't your average Sunday drive.
The road to the lake is a gravel track, and forget about it in the winter. Honestly, if unpaved mountain roads make you nervous, or you have a thing about heights, maybe skip this one. You'll definitely need a 4x4 to tackle this bad boy. And pro tip: during dry spells, it gets super dusty, so be prepared!
The journey takes you up NF-245 towards the abandoned Sullivan Mountain lookout, and the views are absolutely insane. Seriously, the scenery alone is worth the white-knuckle drive!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,653 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
hardMilitary History and Infrastructure Origins
🇺🇸 Usa
San Miguel Island's service tracks are a wild ride through history and nature! Located way out west in the Channel Islands, this unique network of unpaved roads stretches about 8 miles (13 km) to Point Bennett. These aren't your average scenic routes; they were originally built back when the island was a military bombing range. Today, the National Park Service manages them, but accessing them is strictly controlled. The main drag, the Point Bennett Service Track, is the only land route across the island's plateau. Be prepared for some serious exposure to wind and fog! Now, here's the kicker: because of the island's past, there's still a risk of unexploded ordnance. That means you can't just wander off on your own! A certified Ranger escort is a must, and everyone needs to sign a waiver acknowledging the potential hazards. Your adventure starts at Cuyler Harbor, a wet landing that requires a small boat transfer. From there, you'll find the Ranger Station and some research facilities. No personal vehicles are allowed—the NPS handles transportation with specialized off-road gear. The scenery is unbelievable, especially at Point Bennett, where you can spot up to six different species of seals and sea lions hauled out. But stick to the tracks! The island is prone to erosion, and straying off-road is a no-no to protect both the wildlife and, well, you. This place is all about rugged beauty and a fascinating, if slightly edgy, past!
hardThe road to Workman Creek Falls in Arizona is pure adventure
🇺🇸 Usa
Just a short hop from the 288-Globe Young Highway in Arizona's Gila County, awaits the amazing 200 ft Workman Creek Falls! But heads-up, this ain't your average Sunday drive. Forest Service Road 487 (AKA Workman Creek Road) stretches just over 3 miles, and it's unpaved the whole way. You'll need a high-clearance vehicle, and forget about it if it's wet. You can usually make it to the Falls in 2WD (weather permitting), but beyond that, things get real. We're talking steep, narrow paths clinging to the side of cliffs – not for the faint of heart! It winds up to Aztec Peak lookout, a whopping 7,746 feet above sea level. The final stretch is a single-track forest road that can be a bit rocky. If the gate's open, you can drive all the way to the top. Keep in mind, this road above the Falls Recreation Site is usually closed during the winter months (mid-December to end of March) due to snow. The views, though? Absolutely stunning! You're in the Tonto National Forest, smack-dab in the Sierra Ancha Wilderness, home to diverse wildlife and plants. Oh, and one more thing: this area has naturally occurring uranium and radium-266, and was mined in the 50's! There are signs posted, but be aware of the potential for low-level radiation. And seriously, DO NOT enter any of the old mines – some have dangerously high radiation levels.
moderateIs the road to Anchorite Pass paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! I've got a gem for you: Anchorite Pass in Nevada! This high-altitude beauty tops out at 7,631 feet, placing you right in the heart of Mineral County, practically hugging the California border. The best part? Smooth sailing all the way! NV-359, your trusty paved path, leads you right to the summit. This pass is the highest point on this route. Now, fair warning: this is a true escape. We're talking 55 miles of pure, unadulterated road with absolutely zero services. So gas up and pack those snacks! The pass itself stretches for about 55 miles, cruising from Mono City, California, all the way to Hawthorne, Nevada. And honestly, the drive is pretty chill, mostly straight and easy, without crazy twists or climbs. Get ready for some wide-open Nevada scenery!
easyWhere is Frying Pan Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Colorado, west of Denver, in the heart of Pitkin and Eagle counties. You're on Frying Pan Road, baby! This isn't just any road; it's a 42.3-mile (68.07km) adventure that starts in the adorable town of Basalt and winds its way east towards the intersection of Forest Road 105 and Forest Rd 527 by Ivanhoe Lake. The road is mainly paved (31.7 miles of smooth asphalt) as it dances alongside the Fryingpan River, leading you to the stunning Ruedi Reservoir. Trust me, that shoreline stretch is the highlight reel. But hold up, the last 11 miles turn to gravel, a well-maintained old railroad grade. You might even want to bring a 4x4 to make this trip easier! Expect a twisting, turning canyon drive with red rock walls and plenty of blind curves. It is a well-maintained two-lane road that serves as the main route to Ruedi Reservoir. Keep your eyes peeled for gravel on some of the 25-35 mph marked corners and a good change in elevation. The surface is fantastic through the entire route but deteriorates past the reservoir with less use. Oh, and did I mention you'll be way up high? We are talking about topping out at 10,708ft (3,264m) above sea level. Just a heads up, this road is a no-go in winter due to heavy snowfall and blowing snow. But, if you go in the summer, pack your camera and get ready for some epic views!