How to get to Cerro Gordo, California's Silver Mining Ghost Town, by car?
Usa, north-america
20.27 km
2,502 m
extreme
Year-round
Get ready for an epic adventure up Cerro Gordo Road! This 12.6-mile (20.27km) climb takes you from California State Route 136, near Keeler, all the way up to the legendary silver mining ghost town of Cerro Gordo, nestled in the Inyo Mountains east of Owens Lake.
The road starts off easy enough – you can probably make it to the town site in a two-wheel drive. But trust me, if you're planning on going any further east towards White Mountain Talc Road, you'll need a high-clearance 4x4. Seriously, it gets super rocky and washed out!
Be prepared for some seriously steep climbs that'll have you reaching for those low-range gears. This is a remote route, so make sure you're well-prepared. The narrow, winding gravel road can be prone to washouts and rock slides, so keep your eyes peeled.
But oh man, the views! This drive is incredible. You'll be treated to amazing vistas, wildflowers galore, and a peek into the past with the historical mining structures. Don't forget your camera – you're gonna want to document this trip! And keep an eye out for rattlesnakes.
Reaching a lofty 8,208 feet (2.502m) above sea level, this road can be snow-covered between November and April, so check conditions before you go and be prepared for possible closures or the need for chains. Late spring, summer (though it can get HOT!), and autumn are your best bets for a visit. Cerro Gordo is typically open all week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (standard time) or 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (daylight savings time), weather permitting.
For the ultimate thrill-seekers, there's a short 4x4 road north of town that climbs even higher to an FAA site at 9,222 feet (2.811m). At 1.8 miles (2.89km) long, it’s one of the highest roads in California.
Where is it?
How to get to Cerro Gordo, California's Silver Mining Ghost Town, by car? is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 39.3810, -100.5684
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 20.27 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,502 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 39.3810, -100.5684
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