How long is Fern Lake Road in Rocky Mountain NP?
Usa, north-america
4.34 km
2,484 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, so you're heading to Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado? Awesome choice! Fern Lake Road is a must-do if you're looking for a scenic little detour.
This 2.7-mile jaunt winds its way through Larimer County, starting paved but turning to dirt at the Cub Lake trailhead. Weaving along the north side of the gorgeous Moraine Park meadows, it’s a pretty tight squeeze in spots, especially the last 0.7 miles. It's basically a one-lane track to the Fern Lake Trailhead parking lot.
Speaking of parking, it's seriously limited (think 15-20 cars, max!). Hit the Hiker Shuttle to avoid a headache and a ticket (seriously, don't park on the roadside – it damages the environment!). The road tops out at 8,149 feet, and the very end portion is usually closed during the winter months. Basically, stunning views with a touch of adventure!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 4.34 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,484 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
easyLizard Head Pass in Colorado is one of the most beautiful drives of America
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for Lizard Head Pass! This beauty is perched high in the Colorado Rockies at a cool 10,259 feet. You'll find it nestled between Dolores and San Miguel counties, about 10 miles south of the charming town of Telluride. The name? It comes from a rock formation that totally resembles a lizard's head – how cool is that? The road itself is Colorado State Highway 145, also known as the San Juan Scenic Byway, and it's smooth sailing all the way, perfect for any car. The whole route stretches for about 73 miles, connecting the Town of Dolores to Placerville. You can usually hit this road year-round, but keep an eye on the weather, especially in winter. Colorado weather can be a bit of a drama queen, changing in a heartbeat. Summer afternoons often bring thunderstorms, so earlier is better. And hey, remember you're at a high altitude – watch out for altitude sickness! The views? Oh man, the views! They're seriously epic. Think stunning mountain ranges like the San Juan, Uncompahgre, Wilson, and Sneffels. Some folks even call it "The Most Beautiful Drive in America," and honestly, they might be right. Whether it's spring waterfalls, summer wildflowers, golden autumn aspen, or a winter wonderland, this drive has it all. Give yourself around 1.5 hours to soak it all in – longer if you plan on stopping (and you WILL want to stop!). Mid-July to early August is prime time, but honestly, any time is a good time to hit this incredible pass.
easyUnveiling the mysteries of Zombie Road: one of Missouri's Most Haunted Places
🇺🇸 Usa
Ever heard of a road so spooky it's called Zombie Road? This creepy 3.6-mile stretch, officially known as Lawler Ford Road, lies hidden in the oak-covered hills of eastern-central Missouri, near the town of Wildwood. It’s a bit of a trek to the Meramec River in Glencoe. Built way back in the 1860s to reach the river and railway, this road has serious history. These days, forget driving it – it's strictly for walkers and bikers. It's a popular path, open from just before sunrise to just after sunset. You'll find it near Highway 109 and Old State Road. Be warned, though: this place has a reputation! Legend has it that Zombie Road is seriously haunted. We're talking spectral Native Americans, Confederate soldiers, ghostly children, and the spirits of workers who met tragic ends. People have been spotting shadowy figures and other weird stuff here for decades. It even served as an Army route during the Civil War! So, if you're brave enough to explore, keep your eyes peeled… and maybe bring a friend.
moderateHurricane Ridge Road is Washington's Best Driving Road
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, road-trippers, because Hurricane Ridge Road in Washington's Olympic National Park is calling your name! This 20-mile stretch of pure driving bliss climbs to a whopping 5,082 feet above sea level. Starting near Port Angeles, this totally paved beauty, sometimes called Heart o’the Hills Road, winds its way up into the heart of the Olympic Mountains. Think lush forests and breathtaking views – seriously, keep your camera handy! Give yourself around an hour to drive it straight through, but trust me, you'll want to stop and soak it all in. The road is steep, and you'll even pass through a few tunnels, making the journey super exciting. Now, a word of caution: Mother Nature rules up here! Always check the weather before you go. This area gets a TON of snow (over 400 inches a year!), and the road can close without warning. In winter, it's usually open weekends and holidays, but always double-check. Tire chains are a must in the winter months. As you climb nearly 5000 feet from Port Angeles, you'll see the plant life morph around you, a sign you're getting higher and higher. Get ready for some seriously epic scenery!
hardTake the Scenic Route and Discover Stevens Pass in WA
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let’s talk about Stevens Pass in Washington State! Perched way up high in the Cascade Mountains at over 4,000 feet, this baby straddles King and Chelan counties and offers a stunning drive. Yup, you can totally drive it! Highway 2, also known as the Stevens Pass Highway, will take you right over the top. The whole route is paved, so no need for a 4x4, but keep your eyes peeled because you're cruising through serious mountain country – think Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie and Wenatchee National Forests. Avalanche territory, folks! The pass stretches for about 36 miles from Skykomish to Coles Corner. If you're just driving straight through, plan on about 45 minutes to an hour to soak in the views. And the best part? It's open all year round, so you can experience its beauty no matter the season! Just remember to check road conditions, especially in winter.