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
hardWhere is Shrine Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so Shrine Pass in Colorado is seriously stunning, a dirt road adventure hitting a lung-busting 11,187 feet! You'll find it smack-dab in the White River National Forest, straddling Eagle and Summit counties. They call it Shrine Pass because you get an amazing view of the Mount of the Holy Cross from up there. The road itself, Shrine Pass Road (Forest Road 709), is unpaved and narrow. Back in the day, it was the main drag between Denver and Glenwood Springs, before the I-70 came along. It’s generally in good shape, but can get rocky in spots. While you might see some sturdy 2WD vehicles braving it, a SUV or 4WD is a safer bet. There's usually room to pass, and a few spots to pull over for those postcard-worthy pics. Keep in mind, this beauty is only accessible from June to September, depending on the snow. Trust me, it's worth the trip for the views of wildflowers and pine forests in the summer, or the awesome fall colors. It’s a popular spot, but never feels too crowded. The whole pass stretches for about 11.9 miles, linking I-70 to US-24 near Red Cliff.
hardHow long is Deer Park Road in WA?
🇺🇸 Usa
Deer Park Road is a defiant drive located in Clallam County, in the US state of Washington. There are a number of sharp turns and dangerous ledges. Gravel, narrow, winding and steep in places. This is one of those roads that is easier for the driver than the passengers. How long is Deer Park Road in WA? Located within the Olympic National Park, the road is 28.96km (18 miles) long. It runs from Highway 101 to the Blue Mountain Trail Head parking lot. It’s a scary drive known for its stunning views. Go slow, take your time and pay attention to the road. Please use caution. It is narrow and steep with occasional turn-offs. There are a lot of sharp curves where you can't see what's on the other side. It barely wide enough for two cars so when you do meet an oncoming vehicle one must pull over to let the other pass. Expect sheer drops, tight corners and no room to pass. You must go when the weather is nice. Take your time, no rush, both hands on the wheel. The drive is absolutely beautiful. You better have confidence in whoever is driving the car. Is Deer Park Road in WA paved? The road is paved to about halfway, turns to dirt and gets very narrow, 10 feet wide. RVs and trailers are prohibited. Off-road 4WD or AWD vehicle is recommended. When descending, watch for washboarding in the corners, things can get pretty bone-rattling at the end of the dry season. Is Deer Park Road in WA open? The road ends at the Blue Mountain Trail Head parking lot, at 1.830m (6,003ft) above the sea level. It is usually closed between October and April at the park boundary, about 9 miles from Highway 101. It should only be attempted in good weather. Is Deer Park Road in WA worth it? This challenging winding road leads to some of the most beautiful views in Olympic National Park. Along its way the drive offers 360 degree views of mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca from the top of Blue Mountain, the end of the road The road does get busier at weekends and in the main holiday season. It’s an epic alpine climb with expansive views. Pic: Olympic National Park Road Trip Guide: Conquering Indiana Pass in Colorado Driving the road to Little Giant Peak in Colorado is not a piece of cake Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
hardKPQ-FM Wenatchee Radio Broadcaster
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're in Chelan County, Washington, and craving a serious off-road adventure, I've got the perfect climb for you. We're talking about the route up to the KPQ-FM Wenatchee radio broadcaster, perched way up high at 6,827 feet! This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. Located above the Mission Ridge Ski Resort, this road is a proper gravel track – rocky, bumpy, and definitely tippy in spots. It's basically a chairlift access trail, so you know it's going to be gnarly. A 4x4 is essential, and be prepared for some seriously steep sections. If unpaved mountain roads aren't your thing, maybe sit this one out. Rain turns this track into a muddy mess, making things even more challenging. The road's typically closed from October to June, depending on the snow. At the top, you'll find a communication tower and bragging rights for conquering one of Washington's highest mountain roads. The views from up there are stunning, if you can stomach the drive!
extremeSalmon River Road in California: You can’t be scared of steep narrow roads
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, let me tell you about Salmon River Road in Northern California's Siskiyou County. This one's a real gem hidden inside Six Rivers National Forest. Picture this: you're hugging a narrow, paved road carved into the side of a dramatic river canyon. We're talking serious heights, people. Hundreds of feet straight down to the Salmon River with nothing but air between you and the bottom. No guardrails here! If you're afraid of heights, this might not be your jam. The road clocks in at just over 17 miles, winding its way from Somes Bar (just off Highway 96) up to Forks of Salmon. You'll be tracing the river the whole way. Keep an eye on the sky, because being so close to the Pacific means the weather can change on a dime. You might even see snow in the spring! It's mostly a one-lane affair, so take it slow, be courteous, and watch out for oncoming cars. This route demands your full attention. And a word of caution: RVs need not apply. Rockslides are common, and the drop-offs are sheer. But if you're up for an adventure and some seriously stunning scenery, Salmon River Road is an unforgettable drive!