Is the drive through Long Creek Mountain Summit in Oregon worth the drive?
Usa, north-america
152 km
1,551 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Long Creek Mountain Summit in Oregon. We're talking a seriously gorgeous drive, winding up to 5,088 feet above sea level in Grant County. Trust me, the views are worth it! You'll cruise through a stunning forest—think towering ponderosa pines, larches, Douglas firs, and spruce trees as far as the eye can see.
The road itself? It's U.S. Highway 395, all paved and smooth sailing. This north-south stretch of road, also called the World War I Veterans Memorial Highway, clocks in at about 95 miles from Nye (in Umatilla County) down to Mount Vernon (in Grant County). So, pack your camera, roll down the windows, and get ready for a proper road trip adventure.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 152 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,551 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
hardQueen City Summit, a climb on the legendary Extraterrestrial Highway
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up space cadets, because Queen City Summit on Nevada's Extraterrestrial Highway is out of this world! Located in the heart of Nevada, in Nye County, this pass tops out at a cool 5,967 feet. It's the highest point on the infamous Route 375, known for its, shall we say, *unusual* sightings. This stretch of highway is paved and clocks in at just under 100 miles long. It's a lonely ride through miles of desert, connecting Crystal Springs (near Route 318) to Warm Springs (near Route 6). Keep an eye on the weather, as things can change quickly out here. Plus, be ready for some steep climbs along the way. Who knows, you might even spot a UFO!
moderateTail of the Dragon
🇺🇸 United States
# The Tail of the Dragon: The East's Most Epic Drive If you're hunting for the ultimate driving road in the eastern U.S., look no further than the Tail of the Dragon – an 18-kilometer stretch of pure adrenaline that's basically a dream come true for motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts. Located along U.S. Route 129 between Tabcat Bridge in Tennessee and Fugitive Bridge in North Carolina, this legendary section winds through 318 curves with absolutely nothing in between – no intersections, no driveways, just uninterrupted, flowing twists that'll have your heart racing. The road hugs the Little Tennessee River and Cheoah Lake as it cuts through the Nantahala National Forest in the Cheoah Mountains. Picture yourself surrounded by dense hardwood forests creating a natural canopy overhead while you navigate everything from smooth, sweeping curves to tight hairpin turns. The elevation changes keep things interesting too, adding serious challenge to every lap. On weekends from spring through fall, you'll find the place packed with motorcycle groups and sports car clubs, and there's even a photography shop at the Deals Gap motorcycle resort that captures riders mid-corner – the walls are basically a gallery of action shots. Here's the real talk though: the Tail of the Dragon has earned a gnarly reputation for accidents, especially among overconfident riders who bite off more than they can chew. There's literally a "Tree of Shame" at Deals Gap decorated with twisted bike and car parts as a sobering reminder. Local cops are serious about enforcing speed limits here, so keep it legal. The road stays open year-round, though winter can throw icy patches at you up in the higher elevations. If you're in the area, the nearby Cherohala Skyway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park are solid bonus attractions worth checking out.
moderateAbajo Loop Scenic Backway
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're anywhere near southeastern Utah, specifically San Juan County, you NEED to carve out some time for the Abajo Loop Scenic Backway. This isn't just a drive; it's an adventure! Think 39 miles of pure, unadulterated mountain bliss looping through the Abajo Mountains, just north of Blanding. We're talking serious elevation changes here, folks, climbing to almost 11,000 feet! The road itself is a single-lane dirt/gravel track, so be prepared for a bumpy, rocky ride inside Manti-La Sal National Forest. High clearance is your friend, and maybe leave the RV at home for this one. Passenger vehicles can usually handle it late spring through fall, but definitely check conditions in Blanding beforehand, especially after rain – it can become impassable! But trust me, the views are worth it. We are talking breathtaking scenery all the way. You'll be treated to incredible vistas, including views of the southern part of Canyonlands National Park that are simply out of this world. Seriously, bring your camera, because you're going to want to document every single twist and turn (and there are plenty!). From desert landscapes and red rock canyons to towering mountains, you'll find more than a few spots to stop and soak it all in!
extremeRed Mountain Pass in Colorado is a treacherous drive in the wintertime
🇺🇸 Usa
Red Mountain Pass, chilling at 11,018 feet above sea level in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, is a must-do for thrill-seeking road trippers! This stunning stretch of the Million Dollar Highway (U.S. 550) links Ouray and Silverton, treating you to unbeatable views of the "American Alps." Named for the rusty-red peaks that dominate the landscape, this high mountain pass is paved, but don't let that fool you. Expect steep sections, hairpin curves, and drop-offs that demand your full attention. Avalanche season is a real thing here, so be prepared for potential closures. Black Bear Road, known for its extreme danger, kicks off right here. The climb can be intense, featuring an 8% grade on the north side near Ouray and sheer cliffs. But even with winter weather, crews generally keep the road open. Just remember: chains or snow tires might be required, and you definitely want to avoid this drive in the dark or in wet conditions! The lack of guardrails allows for snow plowing, but makes things interesting! Come prepared for one of the most visually stunning, edge-of-your-seat drives in the country! Just keep your eyes on the road (and maybe not the drop-offs!).