Rainbow Point
Usa, north-america
33.15 km
2,781 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're cruising through Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, heading towards Rainbow Point. This isn't just any drive; it's the furthest south you can go by car in the park, and trust me, it's worth every mile.
We're talking about UT-63 S, a paved road that climbs pretty steeply up to 9,124 feet above sea level. The views? Absolutely unreal. The road itself is a blast to drive—think twists, turns, and stunning panoramas of the entire National Park.
Starting from UT-12, the journey is about 20.6 miles to the top, where you'll find a huge parking lot and views that stretch on for days. On a clear day, you'll be rewarded with unbelievable vistas of Bryce Canyon's famous rock formations and the Pink Cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for both the official viewpoints and those little unofficial spots that offer a unique perspective. It's a driving experience that will leave you breathless, in the best way possible.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 33.15 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,781 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhere is San Miguel Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you HAVE to check out San Miguel Mountain in sunny San Diego County, California! This peak sits pretty at 2,567 feet, and you'll find it nestled in Spring Valley, just a quick 15-mile jaunt east of downtown San Diego. Bonus: on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Mexico! Heads up, though – the summit is home to a bunch of communication towers, so it's not exactly a pristine wilderness up there. However, the drive? Totally worth it. Millar Ranch Road is your path to the top. It's paved the whole way, but get ready for a serious climb! From CA-94, it's about 4.6 miles of winding, narrow road, gaining a whopping 2,227 feet in elevation. We're talking an average gradient of over 9%, with some sections spiking to over 20%! So buckle up, and get ready for some amazing views!
easyWhere are Lagunas de Zempoala?
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along in Mexico, right on the border of Morelos and Mexico states, heading towards the stunning Lagunas de Zempoala National Park. You're climbing, climbing, climbing – we're talking up to 9,500 feet above sea level! The road itself stretches for about 18 miles, winding its way from Tres Marías in the east to Santa Martha in the west. Now, heads up: this isn't some deserted back road. It's a major connector between cities like Toluca and Cuernavaca, so expect some company. And because it's a mountain road, the traffic can get pretty intense. But trust me, the scenic mountain views are totally worth it. Just imagine: gorgeous landscapes unfolding around every bend. Keep in mind that some of the lakes dry up during the dry season (November to May). So, keep your camera charged and get ready for an unforgettable Mexican road trip!
moderateWhere is Mullan Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk Mullan Pass! Nestled right on the border between Powell and Lewis and Clark counties in Montana, this beauty sits at a cool 5,902 feet above sea level. You'll find Mullan Pass straddling the Continental Divide, hanging out west of Helena in western Montana, practically hugging the Helena National Forest. Fun fact: It's named after Captain John Mullan, the mastermind behind the historic Mullan Road. So, how's the drive? Picture this: a 17.4-mile stretch called Austin-Mullan Pass Road, dating back to the 1860s, connecting US-12 to Birdseye. Heads up – most of the road is unpaved (except for the Birdseye Road section), which means it can be a bit of a bumpy ride! You'll usually have plenty of space for two-way traffic, but watch out for those washboards and the occasional rut. Seriously, the road conditions can change in a heartbeat. One day smooth sailing, the next you might be bouncing all over the place! Any vehicle can usually handle it with care, but always check the current conditions, know your car, and drive smart. Also, keep in mind that being high up in the Montana Rockies means serious snowfall. Winter can make this route a real challenge, so plan accordingly!
hardWoodchuck Pass
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, thrill-seekers, let's talk Woodchuck Pass! This beast sits way up in Sheridan County, Wyoming, clocking in at a cool 9,636 feet above sea level. Forget your sedan, you'll need a 4x4 to tackle Forest Road 226. It's a gravel road, and not exactly smooth sailing. Think rocky terrain, seriously steep inclines, and a handful of creek crossings (we're talking ankle-deep, but one's so murky you won't see the bottom!). Oh, and did I mention the gates? You'll need to hop out and open (and close!) three of them along the way. Given its elevation, snow can shut this beauty down without warning, so check conditions before you go. But trust me, the views are worth the adventure.