Is the road to Antelope Pass in Arizona paved?

Is the road to Antelope Pass in Arizona paved?

Usa, north-america

Length

41 km

Elevation

1,875 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, road trip enthusiasts, listen up! We're heading to Antelope Pass in northern Arizona's Coconino County! This isn't just any drive; it's a climb to 6,151 feet (1.875m) with some serious elevation gain—we're talking about ascending 1,000 feet in just 3 miles!

You'll be cruising on State Route 89A, and yes, it's paved, but don't let that fool you. Get ready for a hilly ride. There's a particularly memorable stretch just outside of Bitter Springs where the road decides to zigzag dramatically along a cliff edge.

Clocking in at 25.5 miles (41 km) from Bitter Springs up to Lake Powell, this south-to-north route isn't just about the destination. Keep your eyes peeled for the incredible viewpoints scattered along the way. They're perfect for soaking in those panoramic vistas.

Now, a word of caution: this road isn't for the faint of heart. Prepare for narrow sections, steep inclines, and hairpin curves as you navigate the hillside. Large trucks and long trailers? You might want to reconsider, or at least get ready to shift into low gear. Oh, and keep an eye out for falling rocks—safety first!

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Road Details

Country
Usa
Continent
north-america
Length
41 km
Max Elevation
1,875 m
Difficulty
hard

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