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
hardWhat makes the geography of Roaring Fork so challenging?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a six-mile, one-way loop hiding in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, deep in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This isn't just a drive, it's an *experience.* Forget wide open roads; this baby's narrow, hugging the curves of the Roaring Fork stream like it's old friends. Think twisty asphalt snaking through a dense, super-lush forest. You'll be creeping along, but that's the point. Leave your RV, trailer, or bus at home, this is strictly a car-only affair. Seriously, those tight turns and low-hanging branches are no joke. Once you commit, there's no turning back, so make sure your ride's in tip-top shape – especially those brakes! You'll need 'em on the steep bits. Keep your eyes peeled for "bear jams" (yep, traffic caused by bears!) and be ready to stop quick. The Smoky Mountains are basically a rainforest, so things can get slippery. Watch out for wet leaves and moss, especially on those curves. The sunlight plays tricks too, with shadows hiding all sorts of stuff on the road. And in the colder months, ice can linger in the shaded spots. But hey, it's all worth it. Waterfalls, historic cabins, the roar of the creeks – this trail's a feast for the eyes. If you're up for a focused drive, this little loop will reward you with an up-close and personal look at nature's finest. Get ready to master the trail!
moderateA memorable road trip to Currant Summit in NV
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! I've got a gem for you: Currant Summit in Nevada's Nye County! We're talking serious altitude here – 7,004 feet up in the White Pine Range. You'll be cruising on US-6, a fully paved and scenic route that winds its way to the top. Good news is, it's usually open year-round, though winter weather can occasionally throw a curveball (or a snowdrift) your way. Get ready for a climb! This road is pretty steep in sections, hitting 6% grades with plenty of turns to keep things interesting. Expect some sharp curves and dramatic drop-offs as you make your way up. Currant Summit is the fourth highest point on US-6 in Nevada. This one's a must-do for any Nevada road trip!
hardWhat is La Lobera?
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the coast south of the Transpeninsular Highway in Baja California Sur, searching for a hidden gem. The road to La Lobera is a bit rough and ready - unpaved, but usually doable in a regular car if it's dry. Watch out after it rains though, those puddles can get pretty deep! This coastal track is more than just a road; it's a scenic route with incredible views. Think dramatic cliffs, waves smashing into the rocks, and that raw Baja beauty. The dirt track is just over 7.5km long off Highway 1, and it takes you to a truly unforgettable place: a massive sinkhole that's home to a secret, underground beach filled with sea lions! Keep your eyes peeled for the cute xerospermophilus, a type of squirrel, and the speedy puma concolor, amongst other cool wildlife!
hardDriving the treacherously steep Bella Coola Road in British Columbia
🇨🇦 Canada
Get ready for the Bella Coola Road – a 454-kilometer (282-mile) adventure across British Columbia that'll take your breath away! This isn't just a drive; it's an experience, linking Bella Coola with Williams Lake. Also known as Highway 20 or the Chilcotin Highway, this route carves its way from the Central Interior to the Central Coast, serving up a hefty dose of the Coast Mountains and Chilcotin Plateau. Think dramatic landscapes: desert canyons echoing near the Fraser River, and soaring glaciated peaks. The first 319 km is paved, taking you to Anahim Lake. After that, it's gravel road all the way. You'll definitely want to stay focused on those hairpin turns! This isn't a Sunday cruise; it's a "low gear, full concentration" kind of drive. The real kicker? "The Hill," a set of switchbacks leading up to Heckman Pass at 1,524 meters (5,000 feet). Then brace yourself for a thrilling 43 km (27 mi) descent into the Bella Coola Valley, featuring grades up to 18% (yikes!), which some say is the steepest in BC. Remember, uphill traffic has the right-of-way on those single-lane bits! Driving into Bella Coola is absolutely worth it! With limited services along the way, make sure you're prepared. Fill up the tank! You can make the whole trip in a day, especially in summer, but plan to take your time and soak in those views. Fun fact: Built in 1953, the road is nicknamed the "Freedom Road" by locals, who remember how isolated they were before its completion.