Infrastructure and Environmental Risk Factors
Usa, north-america
N/A
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're heading up to Bear Lake in Colorado. It's all paved, so no off-roading needed, but the views? Absolutely stunning.
Or, how about tackling the Carlsbad Caverns switchbacks in New Mexico? This one's a bit more intense—we're talking a seriously steep 20-degree grade! Hold on tight, it's a wild ride.
Want more? Come check out some spectacular roads across the globe!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Onion Valley Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Nestled in California's Inyo County, Onion Valley Road is a must-drive for those seeking a thrilling ascent! Picture this: you're cruising through the heart of Owens Valley, right between the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and the vast Nevada landscape. This 13-mile stretch, formerly known as California State Route 180, kicks off from Independence on US 395 and winds its way westward to Onion Valley Campground. Typically open from May to November, Mother Nature dictates the schedule with snow conditions. Prepare for a climb! They say this is one of the toughest cycling routes in California, and it's no joke. The road gains serious altitude as you go, hitting an average grade of almost 8% over the last ten miles. Starting at around 3,937ft, you'll climb over 5,200 feet in elevation to reach a staggering 9,219ft near the top. The fully paved road features nine switchbacks, offering killer views of the Owens Valley. Keep an eye out for bears, as they're known to frequent the area! The scenery is simply breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the Owens Valley and the Sierras.
extremeSalt Creek Pass
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! Salt Creek Pass in Colorado's Park County is calling your name! Nestled high in the Mosquito Range, this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a lung-busting 9,735 feet above sea level! The road, also known as Forest Service Road 436, is a gravelly, 4WD-only kind of adventure. Think rocky, maybe muddy in spots, and definitely NOT for the faint of heart. Seriously, check the weather before you go, because Mother Nature can throw some serious curveballs up here – avalanches, heavy snow, landslides, and icy patches are all part of the fun (or not, if you're unprepared!). But here's the payoff: the views are absolutely epic. It's a roughly x-mile journey that will test your mettle, reward you with incredible scenery. Just remember to respect the mountain and be prepared for anything!
hardKingston Summit
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! Kingston Summit in Nevada's Lander County is calling your name. We're talking about a wild ride up to 8,684 feet! Situated in the heart of the Toiyabe Range, this isn't your average Sunday drive. NF-012, or Kingston Canyon Road, is a gravelly, rocky, and at times downright bumpy path that demands respect. Think 4x4 or bust. Winter? Forget about it! This road is usually snowed in. Aim for late June to late September for your best shot. Be warned: it's steep! Not for the faint of heart, especially if you're not a fan of heights. Muddy conditions after rain can make things extra challenging. But, oh, the solitude and stark desert beauty you'll find are worth it! It's a trail for experienced off-roaders who crave a little peace and a whole lot of amazing scenery.
hardBustamante Road
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, road trip lovers, let's talk about the Camino a Bustamante in Tamaulipas, Mexico! This paved road is your ticket from the charming town of Bustamante to the main drag, Highway 101. But hold on, it's not just a connector—it's an experience. Get ready for some serious hairpin action as you climb 500 meters (that's about 1640 feet!) from 1300 meters to 1800 meters above sea level. Trust me, the views of the surrounding desert valleys are worth the white knuckles. Just take it slow and soak it all in!