Lippincott Mine Road in California is for experienced 4WD drivers and vehicles only
Usa, north-america
11.26 km
1,181 m
extreme
Year-round
# Lippincott Mine Road: Death Valley's Ultimate 4WD Challenge
Ready for one of the most intense backcountry drives in America? Lippincott Mine Road sits right in the heart of Death Valley National Park, sandwiched between Lone Pine and Stovepipe Wells in eastern California. This 7-mile stretch of pure adrenaline connects Racetrack Valley Road to Saline Valley Road, and it's definitely not a casual Sunday drive.
Here's the thing—this is 100% unpaved and built back in 1906 to access the old Lippincott Mine. The warnings at both ends say it all: "NOT MAINTAINED" and "EXPERIENCED DRIVERS USING 4X4 HIGH CLEARANCE VEHICLES ONLY." They're not exaggerating. You'll navigate narrow, winding switchbacks with cliff-edge washouts that'll make your palms sweat. In some spots, you're literally working with just a foot or two of gravel between your tire and a drop that could be hundreds of feet down. No guardrails, no cell service, no towing, no water sources—you're on your own out here.
The elevation plunges from 3,876 feet to 2,256 feet, and the low-range climbing is serious work. Expect massive rocks that could wreck your undercarriage, intense Death Valley heat that'll test your cooling system (especially with canyon winds pushing from behind), and sections that have washed out repeatedly. This requires serious 4WD skills, proper gear (spare tires, shovel, survival kit, lots of water), and respect for the terrain.
The payoff? Spectacular views at the saddle, an incredible sense of accomplishment, and access to one of Death Valley's wildest routes. Just know what you're getting into—this road earns its reputation as one of the most challenging drives on the planet.
Where is it?
Lippincott Mine Road in California is for experienced 4WD drivers and vehicles only is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 37.6306, -103.9099
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 11.26 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,181 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 37.6306, -103.9099
Related Roads in north-america
hardTollhouse Road Is Miles Of White-Knuckle Driving In Fresno County
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for Tollhouse Road! This epic drive slices through the heart of California's Fresno County and plunges you deep into the Sierra National Forest. Forget the boring interstate – we're talking 71.1 miles of pure, paved driving bliss (aka California State Route 168). Starting near Fresno, you'll climb, twist, and turn your way north towards Huntington Lake. And when I say climb, I mean *climb*. This road isn't messing around. Think hairpin turns, steep grades, and views that'll make your jaw drop. You'll peak at a cool 7,585 feet above sea level, so be prepared for some serious mountain air. Give yourself around two hours to conquer this historic road (it was a toll road way back in the 1860s!). Just remember to keep your eyes on the road, because while the scenery is stunning, those curves demand respect!
moderateWhere is Browns Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, buckle up for Browns Pass, a wild ride topping out at a cool 11,400 feet! You'll find this beauty nestled in Colorado, smack-dab in the heart of the Sawatch Range. Heads up: this isn't your typical Sunday cruise. The 5.5-mile road to the summit is unpaved and starts from the paved County Road 29. It’s a bit rough and rugged, so be prepared for a bumpy adventure! Word to the wise: winter is a no-go. This road isn't plowed, so plan your trip for the warmer months for the best experience. Also, keep an eye on the weather – the trail is totally exposed, so you don't want to get caught in a storm. But oh, the views! You'll be treated to incredible scenery as you climb. Browns Pass is a true escape into the Colorado wilderness.
hardSilvertip Basin
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Ever dreamt of conquering a road that scrapes the sky? Then Silvertip Basin in Wyoming's Absaroka range is calling your name. We're talking a lung-busting 10,633 feet (3,241m) above sea level, making it one of the highest drives in the state! Forest Road 1013I isn't for the faint of heart. Picture this: a super skinny, rocky track that climbs like a homesick angel. You'll definitely need a high-clearance 4x4 to tackle this beast. And heads up, this road is typically snowed in from October to June, so plan accordingly. Heights phobia? Maybe skip this one. But if you're brave enough, you'll be rewarded with views that'll make your jaw drop. Just remember, this is an old mine road, so expect a wild, rugged ride, and keep an eye on the weather. Thunderstorms can turn those dirt tracks into a 4x4-only mud bath in a heartbeat!
hardA narrow dirt road with steep drop offs to Francis Peak in Utah
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're anywhere near northern Utah, you HAVE to check out Francis Peak! Perched way up high on the border of Davis and Morgan counties, this mountain clocks in at a whopping 9,471 feet. The road? Well, let's just say it's an experience. You'll start on pavement, cruising nice and easy for about a mile. Then, BAM! You hit a winding, narrow dirt road that'll take you on a 12-mile rollercoaster up the mountain. It’s called Francis Peak Road, but some know it as Skyline Drive or Farmington Canyon Road. Now, be warned, this climb is STEEP! Starting near Farmington, you're looking at almost 13 miles of uphill driving, gaining over 5,000 feet in elevation. And hold on tight – there are some serious drop-offs and iffy cell service the whole way. Heads up: this road is a no-go in winter. Snow can stick around well into June. Once you get to the top (which is inside the Wasatch-Cache National Forest, BTW), you'll find a restricted zone with huge radar towers that look like something out of a sci-fi movie! Sadly, you can't get right up to the towers themselves. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes sunbathing near the rocks! But most importantly, soak in the views! Seriously, they're insane. You can see Morgan to the east and the Great Salt Lake shimmering to the west. Trust me, this is one adventure you won't forget.