How long is the Saxon Mountain Road?
Usa, north-america
11 km
3,494 m
extreme
Year-round
Alright, thrill-seekers, listen up! Saxon Mountain, nestled in Colorado's Clear Creek County just north of Georgetown, is calling your name... if you dare. This beast of a road clocks in at 7 miles (11 km) of pure adrenaline, snaking its way up to a staggering 11,463ft (3.494m) elevation.
Built back in the day for a tramway that never quite materialized, this climb isn't for the faint of heart. We're talking a seriously steep average gradient of 8.17% and spots pushing a whopping 14%. The road gains 899 meters in elevation via 23 switchbacks. Picture this: tight corners, cliff edges that demand respect, and a rocky, bone-jarring ride that'll put your 4x4 (a must!) to the ultimate test. Keep your eyes peeled for rock slides, especially after a good downpour. Boulders can and do make surprise appearances on the road.
Is it worth the white knuckles? Absolutely! The views are legendary. We're talking panoramic vistas of Georgetown, the I-70 corridor, and the majestic Mt. Evans. The summit rewards you with an even wider perspective, showcasing Mt. Evans and the Continental Divide. Plus, history buffs will geek out over the old mining remnants and log cabins scattered around.
Word of caution: this trail is currently closed due to safety concerns. Proceed with caution if things change. Check conditions and be prepared for an extreme experience. November to May? Forget about it โ this road is snowed under.
So, if you're craving a challenging off-road adventure with views that'll blow your mind, Saxon Mountain is a must-do... when it reopens, and if you're up for it!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 11 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,494 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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