
Lakeshore Drive
Usa, north-america
22.4 km
3,168 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along Forest Road 121, also known as Lakeshore Drive, smack-dab in the middle of Mesa County, Colorado. This isn't just any drive; it's a full-on scenic adventure through the Grand Mesa National Forest!
The road itself is a well-maintained gravel path, making for an exciting (but manageable) ride. Get your camera ready because the views are absolutely killer, and you'll want to stop every few minutes for that perfect shot, no matter the time of year.
Starting near the tiny town of Grand Mesa, this route stretches for almost 14 miles, topping out at a breathtaking 10,394 feet above sea level. Just a heads-up: snow usually shuts it down from October to June, so plan accordingly.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 22.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,168 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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