How long is Sawyers Bar Road?
Usa, north-america
64.05 km
1,132 m
hard
Year-round
Sawyers Bar Road is a hidden gem nestled in California's Klamath National Forest! This isn't just a drive, it's an experience. We're talking a 64km (almost 40-mile) adventure from Forks of Salmon (at the river forks, duh!) to Etna in Scott Valley.
The best part? The section between Etna Summit (almost 6,000 feet up!) and Sawyers Bar. You’ll start with a steady climb on a fairly straight road, but hold on tight – after the summit, the road narrows, gets way more scenic, and starts twisting like a pretzel! The drop on the other side can hit a wild 18% grade! Expect some seriously slow speeds, like 15-25 km/h, and plan for around 1.5 hours without stops.
Speaking of elevation, you'll reach a height of almost 6,000 feet, with stunning views along the way. But be warned: this isn't for the faint of heart (or those with massive RVs). We're talking one-lane sections, steep drop-offs (think 500 feet straight down!), and the potential for rock slides. It hugs the North Fork of the Salmon River, and the scenery is unreal. Just remember to honk on those blind curves and keep an eye out for erosion. Summer afternoons can get seriously hot! Services are scarce, so fuel up and pack accordingly. If you're an experienced mountain driver looking for a remote, gorgeous, and challenging road, Sawyers Bar is calling your name.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 64.05 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,132 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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