How is the drive to Kerr Notch?
Usa, north-america
N/A
18 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway in Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, and you hit Kerr Notch. It's this insane mountain pass perched on the southeastern edge of the lake, and trust me, the views are unreal.
So, Kerr Notch is basically a valley carved by glaciers way before Mount Mazama blew its top like 7,700 years ago. When the volcano collapsed, it sliced these valleys in half, leaving these crazy "notches" behind. Plus, legend says this is where some early settlers first laid eyes on the lake back in 1853 and called it "Deep Blue Lake." Pretty cool, right?
Now, about the road itself: it's part of the Rim Drive, all paved and smooth, but don't get cocky. It's a twisty, narrow mountain road with zero shoulder and seriously steep drop-offs. If you're scared of heights, this might test your nerves!
Kerr Notch is the spot to jump onto the road to the Pinnacles Overlook, so definitely make the detour. Got a big RV or a trailer? Heads up – the descent into the notch is pretty steep, so use your engine to help brake on those long downhills to avoid overheating.
But the real reason to come here is the view of Phantom Ship, this jagged island that looks like a ghost ship sailing on the water. Kerr Notch is the lowest point on the rim's southeast side, so you're closer to the water here than at other viewpoints like the Watchman.
The parking area can get packed in the summer, and the road is narrow, so stick to the designated spots. Photographers love this place because the light changes throughout the day, making the blue of the lake even more intense.
Just a heads up: Kerr Notch is usually closed until late June or early July because of the massive snowdrifts. Aim to visit between mid-July and September. By October, those first winter storms can bring ice to the hairpins, making the East Rim Drive super sketchy.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 18 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in north-america
extremeHow long is California State Route 17?
🇺🇸 Usa
Located in the U.S. state of California, Highway 17 stands out as one of the most dangerous roads in the country. Along the way, it presents drivers with a multitude of hazards – sharp turns, blind spots, narrow shoulders, changes in speed, and slick highway surfaces after rains or snow. How long is California State Route 17? State Route 17 is a scenic road that winds its way through the Santa Cruz mountains, connecting San Jose (the largest city in Northern California) and Santa Cruz (on the northern edge of Monterey Bay). State Route 17 (SR 17), commonly known as Highway 17, stretches from Scotts Valley in the south to Los Gatos and San Jose in the north, covering a paved distance of 26.49 miles (42.63 km). How challenging is it to drive on Highway 17? The road, constructed in the 1930s, boasts narrow lanes and perilously tight curves, earning it ominous nicknames such as "Killer 17" and "Blood Alley." It has been designated as one of California's most dangerous roads. The heightened risk is attributed to the abundance of sharp and blind curves, as well as sudden changes in speed along the route. Consequently, drivers often face difficulties negotiating unexpected sharp turns, sometimes careening off the median divider. Numerous accidents on this route can be attributed to sharp turns, blind curves, heavy traffic, and occasional wildlife encounters. According to various sources, the number of serious and deadly crashes on Highway 17 has more than quadrupled in the last decade. For instance, in 2016, there were 983 crashes, compared to 420 in 2013. This increase has led locals and news outlets to label it as one of California’s most perilous highways. Common Dangers of Highway 17 What To Do if You’re Injured in a Car Accident on Highway 17 Highway 17’s treacherous curves, steep inclines, and unpredictable weather volatility are well-documented for causing frequent accidents involving cars, motorcycles, and sometimes pedestrians. Because of its well-documented unsafe driving conditions which endanger lives daily, the highway's numerous risks to travelers include collisions, property damage, substantial injuries and even fatalities. If you're involved in a car accident on Highway 17, prioritize your safety and call Emergency Services immediately. Get medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Be sure to document the accident scene with photos and collect witness information. Then, report the accident to law enforcement, which is crucial for when you file a personal injury claim. To make the filing process easier, Highway 17 accident victims should hire a personal injury lawyer who is experienced and knowledgeable in California laws. A skilled personal injury lawyer will: Identify all recoverable Highway 17 accident damages Protect you from insurance company lowball tactics Negotiate for the highest compensation on your behalf Offer you support, not only now but also long-term Hiring expert legal representation, like that offered by the California-based law firm Braff Law Car Accident Slip and Fall Personal Injury Lawyers , will ensure your rights are safeguarded and maximize your financial recovery during this challenging time. Whether you are the victim of a Highway 17 car accident, motorcycle accident or pedestrian accident, a skilled personal injury attorney brings extensive knowledge of California law and a compassionate approach to every case. By thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding your accident on Highway 17, they build compelling cases to hold negligent parties accountable. Furthermore, a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer’s commitment to personalized service means they will stand by your side throughout the entire legal process. A personal injury attorney provides guidance, support, and aggressive advocacy to help you achieve the best possible outcome. With personalized legal strategies tailored to your own unique Highway 17 accident situation, a personal injury lawyer will fight aggressively for full compensation covering your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage and future care needs. A successful personal injury attorney’s proven track record in Highway 17 accident cases provides peace of mind that you have a dedicated advocate by your side throughout the legal process. Is California State Route 17 dangerous in winters? During the winter months, SR 17, crossing a high precipitation area in the Santa Cruz Mountains, becomes slippery from rain, snow, or ice. This heightened risk is particularly noticeable at , the highest point of the road, situated at an elevation of 562m (1,843ft) above sea level. Depending on the time of year, road conditions are further compromised by rain, fog, and snow, leading to instances where a car hitting the median and spinning out of control often involves other cars, resulting in multi-car serious accidents. Is Highway 17 in the Santa Cruz Mountains haunted? Highway 17 has garnered a reputation as one of the most haunted roads in California. Across generations, numerous drivers and passengers have reported witnessing apparitions walking or standing along the highway, with some claiming to see them sitting in the back seats of cars. Others have alleged sightings of white vaporous clouds floating over the lanes. Some even assert encountering the ghost of a 17- or 18-year-old girl walking along the road at twilight. In addition to sightings of wandering spirits, visitors navigating through sharp turns have reported hearing sounds of collisions and tires screeching to a halt. Interestingly, upon inspection, no reckless drivers are found at the scene. Commuters have even reported seeing ghosts of Native Americans along scenic roads during the dark hours. On Highway 17 and Lee Road in Watsonville, the spirit of an old Indian man has been sighted traveling on foot, with legend suggesting that he is responsible for causing all the accidents on the road. Road suggested by: Chen Driving the scenic Montana 2 along the Rocky Mountains Mineral King Road in California: 398 curves in just 25 miles Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
moderateGranite Pass, the highest point of Kelbaker Road
🇺🇸 Usa
Granite Pass, nestled in the Mojave Desert in California's San Bernardino County, is a must-see if you're craving wide-open spaces and dramatic landscapes. This high mountain pass tops out at 4,045 feet, offering some seriously stunning, desolate beauty. The road itself, a classic two-lane highway, stretches for about 68 miles, taking you from I-15 near Baker down to historic Route 66, east of Ludlow. Keep an eye out for summer storms, though – monsoonal thunderstorms can sometimes cause flooding along the road. Just a stone's throw north of the I-40 exit, you'll find the pass. If you're feeling adventurous, there's a short, steep gravel track heading east that climbs to some communication towers at 4,117 feet. It's only about 1,000 feet long, but you'll definitely need a 4x4 to tackle it! The average gradient is 7.09%. Worth it for the views, though!
easyThe unforgettable road to Dunraven Pass, the highest pass in Yellowstone
🇺🇸 Usa
Hey, fellow adventurers! Ever heard of Dunraven Pass? This stunner sits way up high in Wyoming's Yellowstone National Park, clocking in at a cool 8,917 feet above sea level. Named after some Irish dude who visited way back when, this is the highest drivable point inside the park. You'll find it on the Grand Loop Road – smooth pavement all the way! Just take it easy and stick to the speed limit as you cruise through this seriously mountainous section. Trust me, those panoramic views are worth the slower pace. This road has been around for a while; they originally built it back in 1915 and then paved it in the 40s. Clocking in at just over 16 miles, the road snakes between Canyon Village and Devil's Den. Keep your eyes peeled not just for the mind-blowing vistas, but also for the local wildlife! The Washburn Area is Grizzly Bear central, so stay alert. Speaking of Washburn Range, this pass is smack-dab in the middle of it. Now, a heads up: Mother Nature calls the shots here. Dunraven Pass is a total snow magnet. Usually closed from early October until late May or early June. Even in the summer, you might see some flurries. So, keep an eye on the weather reports before you go!
hardWhy is it Called El Camino del Diablo?
🇺🇸 Usa
Dare to tackle El Camino del Diablo – the Devil's Highway – in Arizona? This isn't your Sunday drive; it's a backcountry adventure right along the Mexican border, so prior experience is a must. This historic route cuts through the Sonoran Desert. The name? Earned. It's sadly known as one of the deadliest migrant trails, with a tragic history. Clocking in at 120 miles along the southern US border, it winds through some seriously remote and arid landscapes. Forget pavement; expect unpaved, extremely rough conditions in sections. A high-clearance 4x4 is non-negotiable. You're on your own out there – no emergency or tow services. Is it worth it? Absolutely! The scenery is incredible: rugged mountains, flat desert expanses, cacti galore, shifting sand dunes, and old lava flows. But heads up! This trip demands detailed planning. No drinking water is available. You'll be trekking through active military bombing ranges, areas with unexploded ordnance, plus zones with illegal activity, abandoned mines, and potentially dangerous wildlife. Never attempt this journey solo. Avoid summer due to scorching heat. Even outside summer, be prepared for extreme conditions. Bring ample supplies, let people know your itinerary, and ensure your vehicle is in top shape.