Shoemaker Canyon Road in California is the Armageddon Highway
Usa, north-america
7.08 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Ever heard of a road to nowhere? Head to the Angeles National Forest, just above Azusa, California, and check out Shoemaker Canyon Road! This abandoned route, nicknamed "Armageddon Highway" and "Convict Road," has a wild history. Back in the Cold War days, the plan was to build an escape route out of Los Angeles in case of a nuclear attack.
The road stretches for about 4.4 miles from East Fork Road and features two seriously cool, abandoned tunnels. You’ll be surrounded by classic California chaparral and some pretty awesome canyon views. Imagine this: Inmates started building this road in 1956, but construction stopped in 1969 due to budget cuts.
Today, you can drive the first 1.8 miles on pavement. Then, it's time to hike or bike the rest on a well-maintained dirt path. The road gradually climbs uphill to those awesome tunnels, which are located 1.8 and 2.6 miles past the closed gate. Be warned, they're pretty dark inside and can be a bit spooky! And remember, this is the San Gabriel Mountains, so the weather can be extreme. Avoid the midday sun (virtually no shade except in the tunnels), let someone know your plans, and be prepared for heat in the summer or winter storms. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Where is it?
Shoemaker Canyon Road in California is the Armageddon Highway is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.3462, -100.7438
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 7.08 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 38.3462, -100.7438
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