Mineral King Road in California: 398 curves in just 25 miles
Usa, north-america
39.91 km
2,398 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Mineral King Road, nestled in Tulare County, California. This isn't just any road; it's a wild ride with a whopping 398 curves packed into just 25 miles!
Starting from CA-198 (Sierra Drive), you'll wind your way east for almost 25 miles until you hit Mineral King. This hidden gem in Sequoia National Park is mostly paved, but don't be surprised by some stretches of gravel or dirt, eventually turning into a trail. No need for a 4x4, though.
You'll climb to a breathtaking 7,867 feet above sea level. Keep in mind this road's a seasonal beauty, only open from Memorial Day weekend through October. And, pro tip: leave the RV and trailer at home. Rock slides and washouts can happen, so always check conditions before you go.
Back in the 1870s, silver brought a rush of folks to this area, and by 1873, the road was born. You'll be tracing the path of those early miners!
The road itself is an experience, leading to the stunning subalpine glacial valley of Mineral King. Think seriously windy, narrow mountain roads, opening up to some of the most incredible high-country views in the Sierra Nevada. And get this: Disney wanted to build a ski resort here back in the day!
The road's steep, averaging about 5.1% grade, but with some serious climbs hitting 15-20%! Plus, it gets super narrow with limited guardrails. It's a twisty, bumpy adventure, and not for the faint of heart (or your precious sports car). Passengers, get ready for amazing views. Drivers, prepare for a challenge with those cliff drops!
Where is it?
Mineral King Road in California: 398 curves in just 25 miles is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 36.0062, -98.9851
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 39.91 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,398 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 36.0062, -98.9851
Related Roads in north-america
hardMill Creek Trail
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're craving some serious off-road action? Then point your 4x4 towards Mill Creek Trail in southern Madison County, Arkansas! This baby snakes through the Ozark National Forest for a solid 42 miles, and trust me, it's not for the faint of heart. We're talking gravel, rocks, the whole shebang. Think rugged, remote, and stunning forest scenery. You'll need some off-roading experience to tackle this trail, but if unpaved mountain roads are your jam, you're in for a treat. Plus, it's open year-round, so you can get your adventure on whenever the mood strikes! Just remember to bring your A-game and get ready for a wild ride!
easyDriving the historic Silver Thread Scenic Byway in Colorado
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising down Highway 149 in Colorado, on the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, and it's pure magic. This totally paved road stretches for 117 miles through the southwest region of the state, winding through not one, but *four* national forests – Rio Grande, Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison. Think stunning! You'll roll through cute towns like Lake City, Creede, and South Fork, traveling from near Gunnison all the way to US-160 in Rio Grande County, right in the heart of the San Juan Mountain Range. Word to the wise: this is a two-lane road, so stay alert, especially in winter. While it’s maintained year-round and snowplows keep it clear, conditions can get dicey. You'll climb to Slumgullion Pass, a whopping 11,574 feet above sea level! Give yourself at least 3 hours to drive, but honestly, you’ll want way more time. This route is packed with panoramic vistas, wildlife sightings (elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep!), and a rich history of Native Americans, early explorers, and Victorian mining towns. Seriously, the old mining camps are incredible, and the surrounding wilderness is just breathtaking. Follow the road as it traces the old toll routes, stagecoach lines and railways! Look out for North Clear Creek Falls, the Slumgullion earth slide, and Uncompahgre Peak. The heights around Creede and Lake City remain strewn with abandoned mining structures, most of them accessible via rugged backcountry roads. Grab a Silver Thread Guide at the Lake City Visitor Center and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
moderateWhy is it called the Captain William Moore Bridge?
🇺🇸 Usa
Just outside Skagway, Alaska, you'll find the Captain William Moore Bridge, a truly unique structure with a fascinating history. This isn't just any bridge; it's a key piece of the route to the Yukon and Klondike, a path once trod by thousands during the Gold Rush. Named after local legend Captain William Moore, a true pioneer of the region, the bridge itself is an engineering marvel. The original bridge, built in the 70s, was designed with earthquakes in mind, anchored only on one side to allow for movement. While that old bridge is now a pedestrian walkway – a cool historical spot to check out – the modern replacement, built in 2017, uses the same clever cantilevered design to withstand seismic activity. So, you're not just driving across a bridge; you're experiencing a piece of Alaskan ingenuity, built to endure the wild forces of nature!
moderateWhere is Bears Ears Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Bears Ears Peak in northwestern Colorado, practically waving hello to Wyoming! Nestled in the Medicine Bow–Routt National Forests, this trek isn't for the faint of heart. We're talking a gravelly climb that tops out around 11,000 feet. You'll start on County Road 2W and ascend about 17 miles of unpaved, bumpy terrain. Seriously, high clearance is your best friend here. Keep in mind, this road is usually snowed in until late spring/early summer. But hey, if you're up for an off-the-beaten-path journey with epic views, Bears Ears Peak might just be your next unforgettable drive!