
Road trip guide: Conquering the Boehmer Reservoir
Usa, north-america
7.24 km
3,610 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, listen up! Deep in the heart of Colorado's El Paso County, south of Pikes Peak, lies a hidden gem: Boehmer Reservoir. This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. We're talking about a climb to a whopping 11,843 feet (3,610m) above sea level!
The 4.5-mile (7.24km) trek up from Forest Service Road 376 is no joke. This is a rough and rugged dirt road built way back in 1894, so you'll definitely need a high-clearance vehicle to make the journey. Forget your low-riders, folks!
But trust me, the effort is SO worth it. The views are absolutely stunning, and the solitude up there is unreal. Just imagine breathing in that crisp mountain air! Keep in mind this road is generally open from Memorial Day until about October 1st, depending on the snow. Don’t expect clear roads until late June or even July some years. If you are looking to enjoy this beautiful place, you will have to plan your trip accordingly!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 7.24 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,610 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Crooked Creek Station?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk Crooked Creek Station! Nestled high in the White Mountains of California, this spot sits at a seriously impressive elevation. Think log cabin vibes in the eastern-central part of the Golden State. Now, the road...it's an unpaved adventure! We're talking a dirt track roughly 5 miles long. Don't expect a smooth ride – it's rocky in places with some washboarding. Keep your speed under 15 mph to avoid any tire trouble. While a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, most standard cars can make it when the road's open. And that's usually from late spring until the snow flies (weather depending, of course). Once you're there, a smaller side road will tempt you even higher. Get ready for some incredible views!
hardDriving the challenging NM-567 road in New Mexico
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip fans, buckle up for State Road 567 in northern New Mexico! Just north of Albuquerque, in the mountains of southwestern Taos County, this little 11.7-mile gem packs a punch. Starting south of Tres Piedras off U.S. Route 285 and winding its way north to NM 570 near Pilar, be prepared for some serious curves and climbs. Most of the road is paved, but there's a short section of gravel to keep things interesting. And when I say climbs, I mean it! This baby hits a 12% gradient in spots, with hairpin turns that'll make your palms sweat. The road can feel super narrow at times, so keep your eyes peeled. Open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather, especially in winter. This isn't a road you want to tackle in the dark, rain, or snow. But on a clear day? The views are incredible!
hardHow dangerous is Road Mexico 45?
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, so you're heading from Queretaro to León in Mexico? Buckle up, because Mexico 45 is a wild ride! This highway is the main artery for pretty much all traffic coming from northwest and northern Mexico (and the US!), so it’s always buzzing. This stretch of "El Bajío" valley is booming, which means industrial parks, shops, and new construction are popping up left and right. But, sadly, the infrastructure hasn't kept pace, making this one of the trickier roads in the country. Think non-stop traffic, impatient drivers, and pavement that's seen better days, all combining for a white-knuckle experience. Word on the street is they average a couple of accidents *every single day*. Yikes! On the plus side, you'll be cruising through the heart of Mexico, passing by major cities like Irapuato, Salamanca, Silao, and Celaya. Plus, you’re up in the highlands, enjoying views at an average elevation of 1,750 meters. Just keep your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel, and maybe say a little prayer!
extremeRoad trip guide: Conquering Mauna Kea in Hawaii
🇺🇸 Usa
Get ready for an epic adventure on Mauna Kea, a massive dormant volcano in Hawai’i! Seriously, you can drive from sea level to almost 14,000 feet in about two hours – it's wild! This beauty sits 35 miles west of Hilo, on the Big Island’s north side, and it’s the highest point in the entire Hawaiian archipelago. The Mauna Kea Access Road, built back in '64, clocks in at 14.6 miles, starting from Saddle Road. Don't let the pavement fool you; this climb is intense! Prepare for some seriously steep sections, with gradients hitting a max of 15%. We're talking about a 7,150-foot elevation gain, averaging a 9.27% gradient. Cyclists, this is your Everest! While mostly paved, the road throws in some unpaved sections near the summit to keep things interesting. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended for the whole journey. Brakes can overheat on the way down, so be careful! Reaching the top is a real challenge, and not just because of the road. The air thins out quickly, so altitude sickness is a real possibility, along with plummeting temperatures. You actually have to stop at base camp to acclimate before tackling the off-road part of the drive! But trust me, the views are SO worth it. Keep in mind that traffic and road closures can happen due to all sorts of reasons, like heavy equipment or slow-moving vehicles. Dust, fog, or snow can also mess with visibility. Stop at the visitor center to adjust to the elevation. Many rental car companies also have specific Mauna Kea clauses about driving to the summit, so check the fine print. Anyone with health issues, pregnant people, and kids under 16 should be extra careful at these altitudes. Scuba divers, wait 24 hours before heading up! Driving straight through takes most people 2-3 hours. At the summit, or Maunakea, you'll be rewarded with mind-blowing views and incredible sunsets. Plus, you can check out the Mauna Kea Observatory, a super important research facility used by scientists worldwide. The drive itself is stunning, winding through volcanic lava fields and ancient forests packed with unique plants. Keep an eye on the weather because things can change fast! A sunny day can quickly turn treacherous with crazy winds and blizzard conditions. Summit winds can exceed 120 mph! Snowstorms even happen in summer, and below-freezing temps, snow, and ice are common. If it gets too dangerous, the road closes for everyone's safety. It's re-opened as soon as things are safe again.