Ruby Peak
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,738 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Wanna tackle one of Colorado's highest mountain roads? Then point your rig toward Ruby Peak, chilling at a lofty 12,263 feet in the Ruby Range. You'll find it nestled within the Gunnison National Forest.
Fair warning: this ain't your Sunday drive kinda road. Expect a gravel track that's rocky, tippy, and bumpy in sections. It's an old mining road. We’re talking serious four-wheelin' terrain here, best left to the experienced. Not a fan of unpaved, high-altitude challenges? Maybe sit this one out. Mother Nature usually closes the gates from October to June with snow, so plan accordingly. But if you're up for it, the views are out of this world!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,738 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
extremeThe narrow road to Schofield Pass in Colorado is for experienced drivers only
🇺🇸 Usa
Schofield Pass, nestled high in Colorado's Gunnison County near Crested Butte, hits a breathtaking 10,734 feet above sea level. This isn't your Sunday drive – we're talking about 13.9 miles of unpaved, rugged terrain known as FSR #317 (or Gothic Road). Named after a local silver miner, B. F. Schofield, the route connects Crystal Mill to Mt. Crested Butte, marking the high point between Marble and Crested Butte. Think serious 4x4 territory – this demands a skilled driver and a high-clearance vehicle. While recent improvements have made it *drivable*, don't underestimate the demanding sections. This old wagon route, dating back to 1873, delivers views that are worth the bumpy ride. Park up in the town of Crystal and hike the short distance to the trailhead, or even check out nearby Geneva Lake. Perched in the Sawatch Range, be prepared for frequent closures. This pass is usually impassable from October to July, and early snows or rockslides are a real possibility. Speaking of rockslides, check conditions before you go! Weather and rock conditions can shift quickly, making sections impassable. Word is, this is Colorado's deadliest pass. Serious accidents happen every year, especially on the descent from Schofield Park to the Devil's Punchbowl. One major hazard: brakes failing after a creek crossing. The Devil's Punchbowl features a nerve-wracking cliffside ledge with drops of up to 300 feet, meaning you might be reversing for *miles* to let someone pass. Keep an eye out for that warning sign: Last chance to turn around! Narrow road, steep drop-offs! Don't be fooled by the pretty sections luring you into the Crystal River gorge. With rutted, rocky tracks and massive potholes, if you're not in a 4x4, turn back now to save your car's undercarriage.
moderateWhere is Canelo Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Wanna explore a totally off-the-beaten-path gem in Arizona? Check out Canelo Pass! This high-altitude beauty tops out at 5,469 feet, nestled in Santa Cruz County, not far from the Mexican border. You'll find it southeast of Tucson, tucked between the Canelo Hills and the northern Huachuca Mountains. And the name? "Canelo" means cinnamon-colored in Spanish – fitting, right? Now, here's the real deal: the entire route is unpaved. We're talking Forest Road 799, also known as Canelo Pass Road. A high-clearance vehicle is a must! The road gets seriously steep in places, with gradients hitting a max of 19% - that's pretty intense! The pass stretches for about 17.7 miles (28.48km), running from the ghost town of Canelo down south to Duquesne Road. Prepare for some seriously stunning scenery as you wind through grasslands, chaparral, and lush riparian areas. Just remember: you're out in the boonies here, so pack accordingly and get ready for an unforgettable (and slightly bumpy!) ride.
hardElk Park Pass
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through southwest Montana? You HAVE to check out Elk Park Pass! Perched at a cool 6,352 feet, this beauty straddles the Silver Bow/Jefferson county line. The road itself? Smooth sailing on good ol' Interstate 15. Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, it's generally open year-round, though Mother Nature might throw a little snow-day closure your way in the winter. You'll find this pass conveniently located between Butte and Elk Park. Get ready for some epic views!
hardHow Long is the Powderface Trail?
🇨🇦 Canada
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! The Powderface Trail in Alberta's Kananaskis Country is calling your name. This isn't just a drive; it's a full-on immersion into the wild heart of Canada. Clocking in at 34 km (21 miles), this beauty snakes north-south, connecting Highway 68 (Sibbald Creek Trail) to AB-66. Think creeks babbling beside you, towering evergreens creating a shadowy canopy, and landscapes so secluded you'll feel like you're the only person on Earth. Most vehicles can handle it, but be warned: some sections get a bit narrow and steep, adding to the thrill. Word to the wise: this isn't your average Sunday drive. The gravel road is maintained, but it's twisty, turny, and can feel like a rollercoaster at times. Parts of it can erode too, so keep your eyes peeled. And ditch the phone because you'll be off-grid. Strong winds can be a factor and livestock roam free, so stay alert! Sitting high in the Rockies, this route hits an elevation of 1,854m (6,082ft). Oh, and a heads up: Powderface Trail is closed from December 1st to May 15th each year. Mother Nature calls the shots on this one, so weather dictates when it's safe to explore!