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
Related Roads in north-america
hardKendall Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're anywhere near Silverton, Colorado, and you've got a serious itch for a high-altitude thrill, County Road 33 (aka Kendall Mountain Road) is calling your name. This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. We're talking seven miles of rugged, rocky unpaved road climbing up to a whopping 13,061 feet! Think serious drop-offs and a boulder-strewn path that will test your driving skills (and maybe your nerves). Beginner off-roaders, you might want to sit this one out. You'll need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle for this adventure. And make sure your radiator is in tip-top shape, because it's a long, slow grind to the top. Expect a gravelly, bumpy surface and tight spots where passing is…unadvisable. Oh, and keep an eye on the weather – this high up, snow can shut things down from October to June, and even summer days can bring thick fog. But if you're up for the challenge? The views are INSANE. Think panoramic vistas of Silverton, the legendary Route 550, and a sea of majestic peaks. At around 12,800 feet, most vehicles will need to park it, but a trail continues to the tippy-top. This road is a true test of your vehicle, your nerve, and your sense of adventure!
hardTemple Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Temple Peak! Nestled in Cache County, up in northern Utah, this beauty tops out at a cool 9,009 feet. Getting there is half the fun (and the challenge!). You'll be cruising on Forest Road 252, which is mostly gravel and can get seriously steep and bumpy. A high-clearance 4x4 is a must—trust me on this one. Quick heads-up: mountain weather can be totally unpredictable, and road closures are common, so check conditions beforehand. If it's been raining, expect mud and slick spots. Oh, and don't rely on your cell; service is spotty. The trek to Indian Rock makes a great detour along the way.
hardMeadow Creek
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Meadow Creek! This peak clocks in at a cool 8,854 feet in Valley County, Idaho, nestled right in Boise National Forest. Now, getting to the top isn't exactly a Sunday drive. We're talking NF-640, a road that's rocky, tippy, and bumpy in sections. Translation? You'll want a 4x4 for this one. Expect it to be a no-go zone from around October to June, give or take, depending on the weather. If you're not comfortable with steep, unpaved mountain roads and serious heights, this might not be your cup of tea. But the views? Totally worth it! Plus, there's a historic fire lookout up there, built way back in 1933. Quick safety tip: keep an eye on the forecast. Lightning and lookouts definitely don't mix. Get ready for an unforgettable off-road experience!
moderateRoad trip guide: Conquering the Stillwater Reservoir
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, wanderlusters, let's talk Stillwater Reservoir in Colorado! Nestled high in northeast Garfield County at a cool 10,311 feet, this alpine lake is a stunner. You'll find it southwest of Yampa, smack-dab in the Flat Tops within the Routt National Forest. The road in, Forest Road 900, is an unpaved adventure that's about 16.4 miles long, starting from Yampa. Keep in mind this baby is usually closed from November to June – winter hangs on tight up here! In dry conditions, most vehicles can handle the washboard surface, but a 4WD is your best friend during the shoulder seasons. Stillwater Reservoir is the last of three lakes along this route and offers incredible fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities. Plus, there's a decent-sized parking lot at the end of the road. Get ready for some serious scenery!