Railroad Ridge is the highest road in Idaho
Usa, north-america
44.73 km
3,180 m
extreme
Year-round
# Railroad Ridge: Idaho's Ultimate High-Altitude Adventure
Nestled in the heart of Idaho's stunning White Cloud Mountains, Railroad Ridge sits at a breathtaking 3,180 meters (10,433 feet) and holds the title of Idaho's highest road accessible by full-size vehicles. Fair warning: this isn't your typical Sunday drive.
The journey up FR 669 from Clayton spans 27.8 miles and climbs a serious 5,049 feet—and every single mile earns its reputation as one of the most intense driving experiences in the state. You're looking at narrow, unpaved switchbacks with virtually no room to pull over, steep rocky sections that'll test your suspension, and views that drop off in ways that'll make your stomach do backflips. High-clearance and four-wheel drive aren't suggestions here—they're requirements. And if heights aren't your thing? Yeah, maybe skip this one.
The payoff? Absolutely stunning panoramic views that stretch for miles on clear days. It's the kind of landscape that makes you forget how white-knuckled your grip on the steering wheel has been.
A few essential things to know: Cell service disappears as you approach Livingston Mine, so download your maps and use offline GPS navigation. The road is generally snow-locked from late October through June or early July, and hitting this stretch in bad weather is a no-go—avalanches, landslides, and heavy snow are real hazards. Drive slow, watch for rocks and ruts, and take your time.
This isn't a road for everyone, but for those with the right vehicle and adventurous spirit? It's genuinely unforgettable.
Where is it?
Railroad Ridge is the highest road in Idaho is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.0740, -100.2417
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 44.73 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,180 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 38.0740, -100.2417
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhere is Modjeska Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're in Southern California, deep in the Cleveland National Forest, about to tackle Modjeska Peak. Named after a Shakespearean actress who loved the Newport Beach life, this summit is a local legend. The road up? It's a 17 km (10.6 miles) unpaved adventure called something super original: Modjeska Peak Road. Expect a bumpy, narrow ride with loose gravel, but nothing your average car can't handle. Heads up though, it can get muddy, especially after the snow melts (or if it rains). This should take you 1-2 hours. The road might be closed sometimes, especially when it snows above the 5,000-foot mark. And remember, California summers are no joke – bring water! So, is it worth it? Absolutely! You're standing on the second highest point in Orange County, gazing at panoramic views of the northern Santa Ana peaks. On a clear day, you can spot the ocean, Mt. Baldy, San Jacinto, and San Gorgonio. And the best part? No annoying antennas blocking your view like on Santiago Peak!
hardHow Long is the Red Rock Canyon Loop?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure awaits on the Red Rock Canyon Loop! Just over 12 miles long, this beauty is nestled in Nevada, USA, and starts and ends inside the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Get ready for miles of eye-popping scenery, from the arid desert landscape to vibrant red and buff-colored rock formations. Seriously, the sandstone and limestone cliffs are unreal, reaching some pretty impressive heights! The whole loop is paved, so no need for off-road tires. But heads up, there are some steep sections – we're talking a max gradient of 10.25% on some ramps. You'll climb, climb, climb to the top, where you'll hit the highest point. If you skip all the stops (but why would you?!), the loop takes about 30 minutes. They call it the 13-Mile Scenic Drive, and trust me, the name doesn't lie. Important note: this road isn't always open. It opens daily, weather permitting, but flash floods can shut things down during the rainy season. Closing times also vary: around 5:00 PM from November to February, 6:00 PM in March and October, and a generous 8:00 PM from April to September. Plan accordingly!
moderateCan you drive around the rim of Crater Lake?
🇺🇸 Usa
Ready for a breathtaking road trip? Cruise along Rim Drive in Oregon's Crater Lake National Park, a 33-mile loop that hugs the caldera of the stunning Crater Lake. This isn't just any drive; it's one of the highest roads in Oregon, climbing from 6,500 feet to a dizzying 7,877 feet at Cloudcap! Built between 1926 and 1941, this road is a testament to engineering ingenuity. Heads up: Rim Drive is usually only open from July to October because winter brings serious snowfall – we're talking over 20 feet in most places, with drifts up to 60 feet! Keep an eye on conditions; things can change fast. This drive isn't for the faint of heart. It can be a bit narrow and winding, with no shoulders in places, and you might find some rocks on the road. Those afraid of heights might find it challenging as the road sometimes lacks railing and the hillsides are steep. However, the views are SO worth it! Plan for about 1.5 hours without stops, but trust me, you'll want to stop. With around 50 turnouts, you’ll have ample chances to soak in the lake views, panoramic vistas, and gorgeous forests and meadows. Each viewpoint offers something unique. Rim Drive is also a highlight along the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, a 500-mile route connecting Crater Lake with Lassen Volcanic National Park in California. Get ready for a drive you won't forget!
easyWhere is Sandia Crest?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, road trippers! Sandia Crest, nestled in the Cibola National Forest just outside Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a MUST. We're talking serious altitude here - 10,678 feet! The NM-536, also known as the Sandia Crest Scenic Byway, is your perfectly paved, 13.3-mile ticket to the top. It’s smooth sailing for any vehicle, so no need to leave the family sedan at home. Built way back in '27 and fully paved by '60, this road is a classic. The asphalt is in great shape, recently resurfaced. Expect around 20 switchbacks as you climb. Keep an eye out for a bit of dirt on those tighter corners though! Motorcycle enthusiasts, this one's for you. The winding road is a dream. Just be aware that those summer storms can bring some wild temperature swings. And speaking of climb, get ready for some steep sections. We're talking gradients up to 9% in spots! You’ll gain 3,763 feet over those 13.3 miles, averaging around a 5.35% grade. Factor in around 25 minutes of driving time *without* stops, but trust me, you'll WANT to stop! The views are insane, stretching across the high desert and dense forests of the Sandia Mountains. At the summit, you'll find a parking area, restaurant, gift shop, and accessible viewing areas and facilities. Oh, and did I mention the panoramic views of Albuquerque, the Rio Grande, Mount Taylor, and the Jemez and Sangre de Cristo Mountains? Seriously, the perspective from the top overlooking Albuquerque is simply breathtaking. Prepare to be wowed!