Mattole Road is a Lost Coastal Scenic Drive in California
Usa, north-america
104 km
742 m
hard
Year-round
Get ready for an unforgettable road trip along the Mattole Road, also known as the Lost Coast Scenic Drive! Tucked away in Humboldt County, California, this 65-mile (104 km) route offers a glimpse into the wildest side of the Golden State.
Prepare for an adventure! The road starts near US-101 and winds its way to Ferndale, with a mix of paved and short unpaved sections that add to the rustic charm. Expect steep climbs, reaching a maximum elevation of 2,434 feet (742 m).
Heads up: this road can be a bit rough. Watch out for potholes and the occasional partially washed-out area. It's best to avoid driving in the rain or at night. Cell service is spotty, so download those maps beforehand! Keep an eye out for tsunami warning signs too, as this area is seismically active. The two-lane road can be narrow, with plenty of curves and gravelly switchbacks, so take your time.
But trust me, the views are worth it! The dramatic ocean vistas are breathtaking. Even before the ocean comes into full view, the drive itself is awe-inspiring. It'll take around 2 hours to complete the drive, so pack some snacks and get ready to soak in the scenery. Mattole Road offers incredible views of California's "Lost Coast," the longest completely undeveloped stretch of shoreline in the state. It's no wonder National Geographic thinks it's one of the most scenic drives in the U.S.!
Where is it?
Mattole Road is a Lost Coastal Scenic Drive in California is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.6629, -94.4665
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 104 km
- Max Elevation
- 742 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 40.6629, -94.4665
Related Roads in north-america
hardCan you drive to Clohesy Lake in Colorado?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventurers, let's talk about Clohesy Lake Road (FS 381) in Chaffee County, Colorado! Nestled in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness near Crested Butte, this isn't your average Sunday drive. This unpaved beauty kicks off near Rockdale and stretches for about 3.3 miles into the Sawatch Range. Now, here's the deal: you can't take your sedan on this trip. We're talking about water crossings, seriously rocky patches, and a steep climb that maxes out at a 14% gradient! A 4WD vehicle with high clearance is a MUST. The road gains 340 meters in elevation, averaging around 6.41% gradient, ending way up at 3,356m (11,010ft). Fair warning: the final 0.75 miles are hike-only. But the views? Totally worth it. Think classic Colorado: pine forests giving way to stunning alpine scenery, with aspens adding splashes of color. Just be prepared for a challenging but unforgettable drive! And remember, this road's a no-go in winter.
extremeA Tourist Icon Built in Record Time
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Just outside Cañon City, Colorado, you'll find the legendary Royal Gorge Bridge, a true marvel of engineering and a total feast for the eyes. Back in 1929, they threw this thing up in just seven months – can you believe it? For over 70 years, it was the "World's Highest Bridge"! Forget your typical commute; this bridge was built purely for thrills. These days, it's the star attraction of the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, packed with rides and heart-stopping attractions. Now, let's talk views. Standing on this bridge is an experience. You're staring straight down into one of Colorado's deepest canyons, and the classic wood-plank deck gives you a front-row seat to the dizzying drop. Below, the Arkansas River snakes through the gorge, and the trains look like tiny toys chugging along the canyon floor. This bridge has seen it all, from daring bungee jumps to aerial stunts. It's even survived some serious weather – fierce mountain gusts and even a raging wildfire. But don't worry, it's still standing strong! Heads up: if you're afraid of heights, this might test your limits. And be prepared for those Colorado winds, especially in the spring and early summer. You'll be walking only, as the bridge is pedestrian-only. Park at the entrance, and get ready for an unforgettable walk! Getting here is easy. From Cañon City, just hop on U.S. 50. Coming from Colorado Springs? Take Highway 115 to Florence and then U.S. 50 West. Or, for a longer, more scenic route, go through Woodland Park on Highway 67 to U.S. 50.
extremeScotts Pass
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're in Salt Lake County, Utah and craving an off-road adventure, Scotts Pass is calling your name. This high mountain pass sits at a whopping 9,488 feet above sea level and promises some seriously stunning views from the Wasatch Crest Ridge. Now, fair warning: this isn't your Sunday drive. We're talking a gravel road – NF-029 to be exact – that's rocky, bumpy, and can get pretty hairy in spots. Think steep drop-offs and washboards galore! You'll definitely need a 4x4 to tackle this beast, and a healthy respect for heights is a must. The road is usually impassable from October to June. Trust me, you do NOT want to get caught in a storm up there, even in the summer. But if you're an experienced off-roader looking for a challenge and insane scenery, Scotts Pass is your ticket to adventure.
hardWhere is Jubilee Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for Jubilee Pass, a seriously cool mountain route in eastern central California, chilling at the southern end of Death Valley National Park. This isn't just any drive; it's a scenic tour through the wild heart of southern Death Valley, but fair warning, the temps can get *intense*. Historically, Jubilee Pass was a lifeline, especially back in the day when miners were tearing through these tough lands hunting for riches. Even with its dry, rugged vibe, it’s still a vital path. Good news: the road's fully paved, so no need for a monster truck! You'll be cruising on CA-178 (Jubilee Pass Road), but keep an eye out, because conditions can change. And be ready for some climbs – some spots hit a max gradient of 8%! The pass itself isn't crazy long, stretching about 12.8 miles (20.6 km) amidst the desert beauty, and it hits an elevation of 4,288 feet (1,307 meters). All in all, this isn't just a drive; it's an adventure with a dash of history!