How long is Phillips Mine Road in Arizona?
Usa, north-america
14 km
1,545 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: a short but sweet escape into Arizona's forgotten mining past. We're talking about Phillips Mine Road, kicking off near an old campground in the Seneca Lake Recreation Area.
This isn't a super long haul, clocking in at just under 9 miles. You'll wind your way to a historic homestead near what used to be an asbestos mine.
Now, for the road itself. Most of it's unpaved, so it's a bit bumpy, but nothing too crazy. Most SUVs should be able to handle it. If you want to get all the way to the abandoned buildings, you might want something a little more rugged. Keep in mind, this road climbs! You'll be cruising above 5,000 feet. One thing to watch out for: if it's been raining hard, the creeks you cross might be flooded and impassable.
Is it worth it? Totally. This drive is tucked away in central Arizona, and the scenery is unreal. Think incredible views, deep canyons, and those iconic Arizona colors. And when you finally roll up to the old mining area? Get ready for some seriously spooky abandoned buildings. It's like stepping onto the set of a horror movie. Definitely a trip for the adventurous soul!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 14 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,545 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
easyCabot Trail
🇨🇦 Canada
# The Cabot Trail The Cabot Trail is an absolutely stunning 298-kilometer loop that wraps around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. Named after explorer John Cabot (who allegedly landed here back in 1497), this scenic drive circles through Cape Breton Highlands National Park and showcases some of the most jaw-dropping coastal views you'll find anywhere in eastern North America. You'll climb from sea level all the way up to over 450 meters, weaving through thick boreal forests, towering coastal cliffs, and charming communities with deep Acadian and Scottish roots. The really show-stopping sections? Definitely the parts cutting through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where the road clings to cliffsides high above the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. French Mountain and MacKenzie Mountain deliver the steepest climbs and most incredible vistas—think dramatic switchbacks leading to breathtaking plateaus where you can see forever across the ocean and forested highlands. Keep your eyes peeled for moose (especially at sunrise and sunset) and whales (June through September are prime viewing months). What makes this drive extra special is the cultural tapestry you'll experience. The western coast features charming Acadian French-speaking villages, while towns like Englishtown and Baddeck celebrate Scottish Gaelic heritage. Plus, you'll pass through Mi'kmaq First Nations communities. Each area has its own flavors, music, and traditions worth exploring. If you time it right for mid-October, the fall colors here are honestly some of the most spectacular in eastern Canada—think blazing reds, oranges, and golds everywhere. The trail stays open year-round, though some spots close during winter, and you'll want to watch out for Nova Scotia's notorious storms when they roll through.
hardBartlett Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! Bartlett Mountain in Colorado's Summit County is calling your name, boasting a whopping 13,175ft elevation. This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. We're talking a gnarly, rocky, and uneven gravel road that winds its way up into the Rockies. Heads up: this beast is usually snowed in from September to July. When it’s open, it's a playground for serious off-roaders. If unpaved mountain roads make you nervous, maybe skip this one. You'll definitely need a 4WD vehicle and some serious driving skills. Oh, and did I mention the steep climbs? And mud can make things extra dicey when wet. But if you're brave enough, the views are totally worth it. Fun fact: this mountain used to be a massive source of molybdenum, and the road you're on? Carved right through the old mining operation! Get ready for an epic ride.
hardRoyal Gorge Bridge: The Vertigo-Inducing Suspension Bridge of Colorado
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! Just outside Cañon City, Colorado, you'll find the Royal Gorge Bridge, and let me tell you, this isn't your average bridge. Built way back in 1929, it was the king of the "World's Highest Bridges" for almost three-quarters of a century! Now, it’s still a major tourist hotspot, dangling like a daredevil over the mighty Arkansas River. Here’s the cool part: it wasn't built for cars or anything practical. Nope, this bridge was purely designed for thrills and views! They slapped it together in just seven months back in the day and charged a measly 50 cents to cross. Over time, it grew into the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, a total playground with rides and heart-stopping attractions. Now, this bridge has some stories to tell. Back in the day, strong gusts would really make it sway until wind cables were added in 1982. And get this: a massive wildfire ripped through the park in 2013, wiping out almost everything, but the bridge? It barely had a scratch! Talk about tough. Getting there is a breeze. Just hop on US Highway 50 West from Cañon City. Coming from Colorado Springs? CO-115 South to Florence and then US-50 West is your best bet. Or, if you're up for a scenic detour, cruise along US-24 West through Woodland Park and catch CO-9 South. Trust me, the views are worth it.
moderatePromontory Divide
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you guys HAVE to check out Promontory Divide in southern Colorado! This asphalt ribbon of Colorado State Highway 69 straddles Custer and Huerfano counties, clocking in at a seriously lofty 8,599 feet. Talk about breathtaking views! But heads up, this isn't your average Sunday drive. Being up so high in the Wet Mountain Valley, you're totally exposed to the elements. Think fierce winds and crazy-fast weather changes. Seriously, pack layers! You might be basking in sunshine one minute and bundled up against a chilly gale the next. Trust me, the views are worth it, just be prepared for a bit of an adventure!