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
Related Roads in north-america
hardCarrizo Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're anywhere near Imperial County, California, you HAVE to check out the Carrizo Mountain Trail. This isn't your Sunday drive – we're talking a seriously rugged climb up to 2,168 feet in the Coyote Mountains. The road, Carrizo Mountain Trail, itself? Think gravel, rocks, and maybe a few prayers. A 4x4 is an absolute MUST. Seriously, don't even think about attempting this in your Prius. Oh, and if you're afraid of heights, maybe grab a buddy to drive. Keep in mind this area is usually closed for part of the year, roughly January through June. Expect a nail-biting, narrow path with some serious drop-offs – one vehicle at a time, folks! It's steep, rocky, and loves to lean outwards, adding to the thrill. After rain, things get extra dicey, so watch out for loose gravel surprises. An old mine road winds through the colorful Painted Gorge, taking you almost to the top. Trust me, though, the views from the summit are worth every white-knuckle moment. You'll see the whole California Desert spread out before you!
hardWhere is McKenzie Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through central Oregon? You HAVE to check out McKenzie Pass! This epic road trip straddles the Linn and Deschutes county line in the Cascade Range, linking the high desert vibes of Central Oregon to the lush Willamette Valley. The McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (aka Oregon Highway 242) is a fully paved dream that clocks in at around 36 miles, stretching from Belknap Springs all the way to Sisters. Traffic's usually chill, even during peak season, and the winding road keeps things nice and slow. You'll practically be retracing the steps of pioneers on an old 1860s wagon trail! Heads up though, this pass is a seasonal gem. It's usually snowed in from November to around mid-June. But here's a local tip: before it officially opens, cyclists sometimes sneak in for a ride before the cars arrive! Also, leave the big rigs at home! Vehicles over 35 feet are a no-go, and trailers aren't recommended due to those super tight curves and narrow lanes. So, is it worth it? Absolutely! At the summit, you HAVE to climb up the Dee Wright Observatory. This quirky lava rock building, built way back in 1935, offers mind-blowing views of six Cascade peaks on a clear day. Plus, you'll be smack-dab in the middle of a 65-square-mile lava flow! Don't forget to check out Clear Lake nearby, famous for its crystal-clear waters and diving scene.
moderateArizona 62 is a beautiful road through Madera Canyon
🇺🇸 Usa
Highway 62 in Arizona: Get ready for some serious scenery! This gem winds through the Santa Rita Mountains, right in the heart of Coronado National Forest. It's about 13.6 miles long, starting from the smooth AZ-83 and heading towards E White House Canyon Road. The first 8 miles are paved, easy peasy. After that, it turns into a dirt road — rocky and a bit narrow in spots — but totally doable in a regular car if the weather's dry and you take it slow. Expect some twists, turns, and narrow sections. The road, also known as Box Canyon Road, climbs to a peak of 5,206 feet. Usually, it's open year-round, but keep an eye on the forecast. It can get hot in the summer and might even see a little snow in the winter. Don't worry about oncoming traffic though, there are plenty of pull-outs along the way.
hardWabash Cannonball Bridge is a single-lane bridge pretty narrow
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for a quirky adventure to the Wabash Cannonball Bridge! Straddling the Illinois/Indiana border, this isn't your average highway crossing. We're talking a single-lane, slightly unnerving bridge that'll have you holding your breath. Originally built way back in 1897 by the King Bridge Company to ferry trains across the mighty Wabash River, it's now open for automobile travel. You'll find it near St. Francisville, carrying the fittingly named Wabash Cannon Ball Road. Word on the street is this bridge, also whispered to be haunted and called the Purple Head Bridge, might be cursed! Some folks believe crossing it brings bad luck. So, if you're superstitious, maybe think twice, but if you're chasing thrills and unique photo ops, this is a must-see. Just take it slow, enjoy the views, and maybe bring a good luck charm!