La Marquesa is One of the Deadliest Highways in Mexico
Mexico, north-america
45 km
3,170 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for the Mexico City-Toluca highway (that's Mexico 15D or 134D if you're mapping it out). This fully paved, six-lane rollercoaster links Mexico City and Toluca, spanning about 45 km (28 miles) of winding mountain roads.
Hold on tight because you'll climb to a whopping 3,170m (10,400ft) above sea level! "La Marquesa," as the locals call it, has a reputation. Sharp curves and drivers who think they're in a Formula 1 race can make things a bit dicey. Plus, there are tons of roadside stops with restaurants, shops, and buses, which adds to the chaos.
Keep your eyes peeled—fog rolls in regularly, cutting visibility big time. With heavy traffic and those tight turns, it's a challenging drive. Lots of folks commute between the cities, so you're never really alone out there. Enjoy the views, but stay focused!
Where is it?
La Marquesa is One of the Deadliest Highways in Mexico is located in Mexico (north-america). Coordinates: 24.1629, -100.7622
Road Details
- Country
- Mexico
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 45 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,170 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 24.1629, -100.7622
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhere is Hell's Backbone Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for a wild ride on Hell's Backbone Road in Garfield County, Utah! This dirt road slices through the stunning Dixie National Forest, connecting Boulder and Escalante with a hefty dose of adrenaline. Built way back in the Great Depression, it's a 38-mile (61 km) stretch of unpaved adventure. It's usually fine for regular cars when it's dry, offering a backcountry alternative to the paved highway. Just take it slow and soak it all in – you won't regret it. Now, let's be real: this road's not for the faint of heart. It's narrow, winding, and hugs a ridge with some serious drop-offs. You'll be climbing to a cool 9,232 feet (2,814m), so it's closed during winter due to snow. Plus, it's remote, so come prepared, especially since cell service is non-existent. So, is it worth it? Absolutely! You're rewarded with insane panoramic views. Make sure to stop at the famous Hell's Backbone Bridge, which spans 109 feet, offering a dizzying peek into the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness Area below. Give yourself 2-3 hours to drive the whole thing, but plan on more to really explore. This road is a must-do for those craving scenery and a touch of adventure.
extremeCuesta del Cajón: Driving the scenic road through Chihuahua's pine forests
🇲🇽 Mexico
Get ready for the ride of your life on the Cuesta del Cajón, a mountain passage that cuts through the Sierra Madre Occidental in Chihuahua, Mexico! Picture this: you're snaking through dense pine forests, alongside seriously deep rocky canyons. This isn't just a pretty drive; it's a challenge for both you and your car. This 42.9-kilometer (26.6-mile) stretch of Chihuahua State Route 11 links Babícora and El Largo, and let me tell you, it's not a route to rush. We're talking constant climbs and descents right through the heart of the mountains. The road clings to the edges of those rocky canyons, so keep your speed low and steady. Heads up – there are no gas stations once you're deep in the forest, so plan ahead. And before you even think about starting, check those brakes! The hills put major pressure on them, so use engine braking on the downhills to avoid overheating. This drive is all about precision. There are 20 hairpin turns that demand your full attention. Some of those switchbacks are so tight that larger vehicles might struggle, especially with oncoming traffic. Watch out for the pavement, too. Erosion and tree roots cause potholes, sometimes where you least expect them. The vegetation is relentless! Trees and bushes grow right up to the edge of the road and can scratch your paint or block your view on corners. Plus, in the canyons, expect small rockfalls and gravel. A 4x4 will definitely give you an edge pulling out of those steep corners. Beyond the bends, there are steep drop-offs without guardrails, and you might encounter local livestock or wildlife. Thinking of checking out Cascada el Salto or the Cuarenta Casas archaeological site? Be warned, those access roads are unpaved and you'll need a high-clearance 4x4. Low-range gears will be your best friend on those steep ramps. The Chihuahua highlands are known for extreme weather. Winter brings frosts and snow that can shut the road down. Black ice is a real hazard, especially in shady spots. In the summer, watch out for landslides and mudflows blocking the road.
hardWhere is Jack Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! We're heading to Jack Mountain in Montana's Jefferson County, just south of Helena. Picture this: you're carving your way through the massive Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, the biggest in the state. This isn't your Sunday drive. We're talking about an unpaved, rough-and-tumble road where you absolutely need a high-clearance 4x4. Get ready for 18 hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills, with some seriously steep sections – we're talking a 12% gradient near the top! It's about 12 miles from start to summit, taking you through thick forests and rugged, rocky landscapes. Once you break through to the exposed ridges near the top, the views are absolutely insane! Oh, and keep an eye out for the remains of the old Jack Mountain Lookout, decommissioned in 2011, that once stood tall, keeping watch over the land. Trust me, this drive is worth every bump and scrape!
hardHurrah Pass in Moab: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! If you're in southeastern Utah, you NEED to check out Hurrah Pass! This baby sits at 4,793 feet, right on the border between San Juan and Grand counties, and the views? Seriously epic. You'll find it by hopping on the Chicken Corners Trail, a 14.8-mile dirt road that starts from Kane Creek Canyon Road and ends at Fielder Natural Arch. Now, Kane Creek Road can get a little dicey during flash floods, so keep an eye on the weather. The trail follows the Colorado River, climbs up to the pass (the highest point of the road), and then descends back down to some benches above the river. For most of the way, it's pretty chill and the scenery is amazing. The last 4-5 miles get a little rougher, so you'll probably want a high-clearance 4x4 to tackle it. The road's usually open year-round, and the view from the top? Unbelievable! You'll be looking out over the Colorado River and those vibrant Potash Evaporation ponds. Plus, you can see all the way to Dead Horse Point and Canyonlands National Park. The best time to go is late spring or fall, as summer can get scorching. My advice? Head out early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds. Trust me, this is one drive you won't forget!