How long is the Durango-Mazatlan Highway?
Mexico, north-america
211 km
1,880 m
hard
Year-round
Get ready for an epic adventure on Mexico 40D, the Autopista Durango-Mazatlán! This isn't just a road; it's a mind-blowing feat of engineering slicing through the western Sierra Madre. Think 115 bridges and 61 tunnels – seriously impressive!
Spanning 211km (131 miles), this route is a scenic alternative to the old Espinazo del Diablo ("Devil's Backbone"). You'll trade terrifying drops for incredible landscapes – from lush tropical vibes to towering pine forests and even desert scenery. Talk about a visual feast!
Starting in Durango, the capital city nestled at 1,880 meters (6,168 feet), you'll wind your way down to the sunny resort town of Mazatlán on the Pacific coast.
A word of caution: While paved, this road can throw some curveballs your way. Watch out for potential landslides, potholes, and the occasional blocked tunnel. Also, keep an eye on asphalt conditions, especially during the rainy season.
Opened in 2013, the highest point of the road reaches nearly 9,000 feet, so winter can bring ice and even snow closures.
Don't miss the Tunel el Sinaloense, a 9183-foot (1.7-mile) tunnel. But the real showstopper is the Baluarte Bridge (Puente Baluarte). It's a record-breaker – the highest cable-stayed bridge on the planet, and the tallest in the Americas. Just try not to be too distracted by the dizzying 403-meter drop to the canyon floor as you cruise along its 1,124-meter length!
Road Details
- Country
- Mexico
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 211 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,880 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Crooked Creek Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so picture this: Crooked Creek Pass, sitting pretty at just over 10,000 feet in the Colorado Rockies. You'll find it south of Eagle and Sylvan Lake, smack-dab in the White River National Forest. We're talking about the Eagle-Thomasville Road (FSR #400), a gravel track that’s a solid 4WD adventure. Eagle County usually keeps it in decent shape up to Sylvan Lake, but trust me, you'll want that four-wheel drive. Expect a few narrow and bumpy sections, but nothing too crazy. Clocking in at around 36 miles, this north-south route links Eagle to the paved road. Keep your eyes peeled – the "summit" is just a cattle guard with a sign; blink, and you'll miss it! Oh, and a heads-up: this road is a no-go in winter due to snow. But when it's open? Get ready for some incredible views!
hardApache Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for Apache Peak in northeastern Arizona's Apache County! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about one of Arizona's highest mountain roads, topping out at a cool 10,938 feet. Located within the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, this isn't paved paradise. Expect gravel and rocks all the way, as it's a service road/chairlift trail for the Sunrise Park Resort. Picture this: seriously steep inclines with loose stones under your tires, and it gets even rockier as you climb. The window to tackle this is tiny, think late summer (end of August). Oh, and did I mention the wind? It's a constant companion up here, and even summer can throw you a snowy curveball. Winter? Let's just say you'll want to pack your arctic gear. Expect some sections around 30% incline! The views though? Totally worth it. Just be prepared for a wild ride!
moderateUS Highway 50 is the Loneliest Highway In America
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, road trip fans, buckle up for U.S. Route 50, a classic American adventure! This paved beauty stretches a whopping 3,000 miles (4,800 km) from coast to coast. We're talking from Ocean City, Maryland, all the way to West Sacramento, California. Originally created back in 1926, this route isn't just pavement; it's practically a time capsule, built on the faint pathways of Native Americans from way back when. Get ready for a serious cross-country trek as you roll through a dozen states (California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland) and even four state capitals, not to mention Washington, D.C. This road is your ticket to experiencing the heart of America! But the Nevada section... oh, that's something special. It's famously known as "The Loneliest Road in America," and trust me, it lives up to the name. Picture this: miles and miles of stunning, empty desert landscapes. US 50 climbs over 17 mountain passes, topping out at Connors Pass (7,729 feet/2.356m). In Nevada, it is just you, endless sandy and rocky vistas, a sprinkling of timeworn towns, and that big blue sky. Over 400 miles, you’ll pass through four mining towns and the capital, Carson City. Keep an eye out for those vintage gas stations, motor courts, and diners tucked away – little slices of Americana hiding in plain sight.
hardMiller Lake
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! Wanna tackle one of Utah's highest roads? Head to Wayne County and find Miller Lake, perched way up in the Boulder Mountains at a staggering 10,652 feet! This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. Forest Road 544 is a rough and ready gravel track with hairpin turns that'll test your skills. We're talking rocky challenges and potential for sudden loose gravel, so a 4x4 isn't just recommended—it's essential. But here's the payoff: unbelievably fantastic scenery and access to some seriously epic hiking and fishing. Just remember, this road's a beast. Winter snow can make it impassable, and even a little rain turns it into a slippery mess. Be prepared for anything – even winter weather in summer! Pack your gear, check the forecast, and get ready for a ride you won't forget!