
How long is the Haines Highway?
Canada, north-america
245 km
1,012 m
moderate
Year-round
The Haines Highway is hands down one of the most stunning drives in North America, especially if you hit it during fall colors! This incredible route stretches for 152 miles (245 km) from Haines, Alaska, all the way to Haines Junction in the Yukon, Canada. Fun fact: it basically follows an old trail used by the Chilkat/Tinglit First Nations.
You can drive it year-round on a well-maintained, two-lane paved road that's usually clear of snow by May. But if you're planning a trip between September 15th and June 1st, keep an eye on the weather forecast. Built back in 1943 by the U.S. Army, the highway shadows the Chilkat River for over 20 miles.
The road climbs to a peak elevation of 3,320 feet (1,012m), giving you unforgettable views of glaciated mountains. Prepare to be amazed by everything from coastal forests to alpine tundra. The Haines Highway winds its way through the Chilkat River flats before climbing to the summit, eventually dropping down to Haines Junction. One thing to remember: services are limited along this stretch, so stock up on gas and supplies before you set off!
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 245 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,012 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhere is Iron Mountain Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Black Hills of South Dakota on Iron Mountain Road. It's 17 miles of pure driving bliss, if you're into curves! We're talking 314 of them, plus 14 switchbacks and a few pigtails – those crazy loops where the road climbs over itself. You'll find this road nestled in the southwestern corner of South Dakota, weaving between Pennington and Custer counties. The whole thing's paved, thankfully, leading you up to a summit of 5,445 feet. Expect to be surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills National Forest and Custer State Park, with epic views of Mount Rushmore popping up. If you get carsick easily, maybe pack some ginger ale, because this road loves to twist and turn. Heads up: this road, part of U.S. Route 16A, takes a winter break. It's not maintained when the snow flies, and the viewpoint at the top closes down. Also, RVers and those with large trailers should be careful. Some parts of the road aren't super friendly to big rigs. Built back in 1933, this road was made for slow-cruising. Think windows down, sunroof open, soaking up the fresh air and the scent of pine and even buffalo. The tunnels are a major highlight – super scenic and just wide enough for one lane. Why is it so famous? Well, those one-lane tunnels frame Mount Rushmore perfectly. You'll be driving just east of that iconic monument with Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln staring down at you. Trust me, the views are insane. Every time you drive it, you'll see something new. The road's designed to keep you under 35 mph, so you can actually enjoy the Black Hills' beauty. It's the kind of drive you won't soon forget!
hardWhere is Carter Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, road trippers! Carter Mountain Road in Wyoming's Park County is calling all adventurers. This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. We're talking about a completely unpaved, rugged stretch that tops out at a seriously high elevation. We're talking one of the highest roads in Wyoming! You'll find Carter Mountain nestled within the Shoshone National Forest in northern Wyoming. This baby demands a 4x4 with high clearance – trust me on this one. Starting near Meeteetse, the road snakes its way for roughly , offering mind-blowing scenery every inch of the way. Just a heads-up: come winter, this road becomes completely impassable. Mother Nature slams the door shut with snow and ice, so plan accordingly!
moderateGilman Tunnels take you through the Jemez Mountains of NM
🇺🇸 Usa
# The Gilman Tunnels: A Hidden Gem in New Mexico's Jemez Mountains Ready for a road trip that feels straight out of a movie? That's because it literally has been! Tucked into the stunning Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico, State Highway 485 winds through the historic Gilman Tunnels—a pair of massive stone tunnels blasted out of solid rock back in the 1920s. You'll find them near the charming town of Jemez Springs in Sandoval County, nestled within the Santa Fe National Forest. Here's the deal: the road is fully paved but narrow and twisty with plenty of blind curves that'll keep you on your toes. It's a smooth drive with moderate grades and usually quiet (though expect more company on summer weekends). Once you pass through the tunnels, the road transforms into gravel Forest Service Road 376—not ideal for regular sedans, so fair warning there. **Timing matters**: This area gets serious snow, so expect closures from mid-December through mid-April. Falling rocks can shut things down anytime, and there's zero cell service out here, so come prepared. The tunnels have serious history. They were originally carved out for the Santa Fe Northwestern Railway's logging operations in the early 1900s. After the 1929 stock market crash and subsequent flood damage in 1941, the railroad shut down for good. Eventually, those tunnels became the incredible scenic road you see today, named after railroad CEO William H. Gilman. And here's the Hollywood connection: those tunnels aren't just photogenic—they're movie-star photogenic. They've been featured in *3:10 to Yuma*, *The Lone Ranger*, and *The Scorch Trials*. Don't skip the full experience. After the second tunnel, you'll discover a gorgeous waterfall and plenty of rocks perfect for stretching your legs. The stunning views of the box canyon and the Guadalupe River 500 feet below are absolutely worth the drive. Just bring your camera—you'll want it.
moderateWhere Is Babbitt Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! I just found the *perfect* little escape in Northern California's Tahoe National Forest: Babbitt Peak! First things first, you're gonna be high – literally! We're talking 8,740 feet above sea level! The road itself, County Road S860 (Smithneck Road), is about 6 miles long and will climb 2,470 feet, so buckle up for an average gradient of 7.8%, and some ramps hit a max of 13.1%! The road is unpaved, but most 2WD vehicles *should* be able to handle it – though a high-clearance vehicle is always a good call for peace of mind. At the summit, you'll find a fire lookout built in 1937. From up there, the views of the Northern Sierra Nevada are unreal! You can see Davis Lake, Stampede Reservoir, Cold Springs, Nevada, and Crystal Peak. Word to the wise: this road is totally impassable in winter. It's on the northern edge of the Sierra Nevada, so plan accordingly!