
Lulu Pass in Montana is worth the white-knuckle drive
Usa, north-america
8.36 km
3,009 m
hard
Year-round
Hey adventure seekers! Wanna tackle one of Montana's highest roads? Head to Park County and take on Lulu Pass, topping out at a cool 9,872 feet! You'll find it north of Cooke City, nestled in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness in the southwestern part of the state.
Fair warning: this ain't your Sunday drive. It's a 5.2-mile unpaved climb up an old mining road from Beartooth Highway (US-212). Think rough terrain and pretty steep inclines. You'll definitely want a high-clearance 4x4 to conquer this one.
Keep in mind, Lulu Pass is typically snowed in from November to May. Even during the open season, the weather up here can be super unpredictable – think sudden chills and surprise storms. Be prepared!
Up top, you’ll find some cool historic ruins from the old New World Mining District. But the real reward? The mind-blowing views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and those gorgeous alpine meadows. Trust me, the bragging rights are totally worth it!
Where is it?
Lulu Pass in Montana is worth the white-knuckle drive is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.4483, -94.0822
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 8.36 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,009 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 40.4483, -94.0822
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