
Is the road to Mount Sheridan in Colorado unpaved?
Usa, north-america
19.9 km
4,021 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, thrill-seekers, let's talk about County Road 18, also known as 4 Mile Creek Road, leading up to Mount Sheridan in central Colorado. This isn't your Sunday drive! It's a 12.36-mile (19.9 km) climb into the sky, topping out at a breathtaking 13,192 feet (4,021 m) above sea level.
The road is unpaved and it's got some serious grades – up to 13% in sections! You'll definitely feel it. Plus, being so high up, be prepared for strong winds and super fast weather changes. But the views? Oh, the views are SO worth it.
Along the way, you'll spot cool remnants of Colorado's mining past. And near the top, you can explore the remains of the old Smith Mountain Mine. Once you reach the summit, get ready for jaw-dropping, panoramic vistas of South Park to the east and the Sawatch Range to the west. This area is dripping in gold, silver, and zinc mining history. A must see!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 19.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,021 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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