Road trip guide: Conquering the Haines Highway
Canada, north-america
245 km
1,012 m
easy
Year-round
Dude, you HAVE to check out the Haines Highway. Seriously, this drive from Alaska to the Yukon is mind-blowing, especially in the fall!
It's also known as Haines Cut-Off or just Haines Road. The whole thing is paved, so no need to worry about gravel. Clocking in at 152 miles (245 km), it links Haines, Alaska, with Haines Junction in the Yukon, and it follows the old trails used by the Chilkat/Tinglit First Nations. Pretty cool, huh?
The highway is open all year and usually clear of snow by May. It's a good, two-lane road. If you're thinking of driving between September 15th and June 1st, peep the weather forecast first.
Built way back in 1943 by the U.S. Army, this road hugs the Chilkat River for over 20 miles north of Haines. It climbs to a max elevation of 3,320 feet (1.012m). The views? Epic! Think crazy mountains with glaciers. You’ll cruise past high peaks, glaciers, rivers, and lakes the whole way. You’ll go from coastal forests to alpine tundra, climb up to the summit, cruise through an alpine valley, and then gently descend to Haines Junction. Word of warning: there aren't any services along the way, so fuel up and stock up on supplies before you hit the road!
Where is it?
Road trip guide: Conquering the Haines Highway is located in Canada (north-america). Coordinates: 53.1724, -106.9646
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 245 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,012 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 53.1724, -106.9646
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Tombstone Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, fellow wanderers, let's talk Tombstone Pass in Oregon's Linn County! Nestled about 16.5 miles west of Sisters in the heart of Willamette National Forest, this beauty sits at 4,245 feet. There's even a parking lot up top big enough for about 50 cars — perfect for soaking in the views. Ever wonder about that name? Legend has it that back in 1871, a young man tragically lost his life in an accident here. His mother placed a tombstone in his memory, giving the pass its poignant moniker. The road itself? It's fully paved, smooth sailing on Highway 20. But don't get too comfy! Expect plenty of sharp twists, steep climbs, and jaw-dropping mountain scenery that'll have you reaching for your camera every few minutes. Clocking in at around 47.5 miles east to west, this drive is a decent chunk of time. And while Tombstone Pass is generally open all year, keep an eye on the weather, especially between November and May. Cascade Range winters can be fierce, leading to temporary closures. So buckle up, keep your eyes on the road, and get ready for an unforgettable ride!
hardWhere is Mojave Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Mojave Road winds through California's Mojave National Preserve, offering an iconic 4x4 adventure. Plan on 3-4 days to conquer this 150-mile stretch, also known as the Old Government Road, which runs from the Colorado River to the Mojave River. Originally a Mojave People trail and wagon route, it connects the old Fort Mohave to Camp Cady. Ditch the GPS sometimes and bring a reliable map. This isn't just a drive; it's an experience that demands self-reliance, especially dealing with prickly hazards like Teddybear Cholla cactus. Always pack a spare tire and repair kit! The desert climate brings its own set of challenges, from flash floods to sandstorms and scorching heat. It's wise to travel in groups, since cell service is spotty out there. Most 4x4 SUVs can handle the terrain, but sand can be a beast. Soda Dry Lake crossings can be tricky, and seasonal weather can make sections impassable. Despite these challenges, the views and the sense of adventure make it a memorable journey.
moderateWhere is Connors Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through central Nevada, smack-dab in White Pine County, on the legendary "Loneliest Highway in America" (aka US-50/US-6/US-93). You're about to hit Connors Pass, a sweet spot that tops out at 7,729 feet! This fully paved beauty stretches for almost 27 miles between Ely and Majors Place, winding through the stunning Schell Creek Range. The views? Epic! Think endless vistas and that wide-open Nevada sky. Now, it's not all smooth sailing. Expect some pretty steep climbs – we're talking up to 8% grades in sections – and a fair share of curves to keep things interesting. Just south of the main pass, keep an eye out for a rugged gravel road that shoots up to a communication facility. It's a short but seriously steep climb, averaging 6.55% with a max gradient of 10%, and not for the faint of heart, but those brave enough will be rewarded with even more incredible views! Connors Pass is the highest point on US 93 and US 50 in Nevada. Get ready for a memorable drive!
moderateThe road to Monida Pass on the border of Idaho and Montana
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, let’s talk Monida Pass! This epic mountain crossing sits right on the Idaho-Montana border, perched high in the Bitterroot Range at a cool 6,896 feet. The name? A clever combo of "Mon"tana and "Ida"ho, naturally! You’ll be cruising along a smooth, paved surface—Interstate 15, also known as Veteran’s Memorial Highway. The journey stretches for about 30 miles (48 km), linking Lima, Montana, with Spencer, Idaho, the quirky "Opal Capital of America." But hey, it’s a mountain pass, so keep your eyes peeled for changing weather and the occasional wildlife encounter. What it lacks in crazy hairpin turns, it more than makes up for in scenery. Think wide-open skies, rugged peaks, and that feeling of being on top of the world. Monida Pass isn't just a drive; it's an experience!