
South Pass
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,248 m
extreme
Year-round
Alright, thrill-seekers, let's talk about South Pass! This high-altitude gem sits way up in Saguache County, Colorado, clocking in at a cool 10,656 feet above sea level. You'll find it nestled in the Rio Grande National Forest, and getting there is half the adventure.
County Road 17FF is your path, but be warned – it's a gravel 4x4 track, so leave your low-riders at home! This isn't a Sunday drive, folks. Mother Nature can throw curveballs anytime. Think avalanches, heavy snow, and landslides, plus sneaky ice patches that'll keep you on your toes. Expect a bit of rocky and muddy terrain too. But hey, the views from the top? Totally worth it. Just be smart, check the weather, and get ready for an unforgettable backcountry experience.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,248 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in north-america
hardOsborne peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventurers, listen up! Osborne Peak in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico is calling your name. Nestled within the Jicarilla Reservation, this beast tops out at a whopping 9,061 feet! Now, don't think you're just going to waltz right up there. The road is gravel, rocky, and gets downright treacherous in spots. A trusty 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's essential. Seriously, don't even think about it if you're not properly equipped. Oh, and a little heads-up: Mother Nature here is a bit of a drama queen. The weather can flip on you faster than a pancake, so be prepared for anything. Road closures are also pretty common, so check ahead! But hey, if you're up for the challenge, the views are insane! Plus, there's a cool lookout tower built back in 1960 waiting for you at the summit. Just remember to tackle this one only when the road is dry, and you're golden!
hardWhere is Pearl Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Pearl Pass, Colorado, clocks in at a whopping 12,723 feet above sea level! This high-altitude pass straddles the Pitkin and Gunnison county line, offering a wild ride between Crested Butte and Aspen. Pearl Pass Road (#102) is a 16.9-mile unpaved beast of a former mining road. Forget your sedan – you NEED a seriously capable 4x4 to conquer this one. Think boulder fields, steep climbs that'll make your engine scream, water crossings, and nail-bitingly narrow shelf roads. Be warned: one particularly gnarly half-mile stretch boasts a 25%+ grade. Even past that, expect plenty of rocky sections, occasional rock slides, and hold on tight—seatbelts are a must! There's even a marshy section to keep you on your toes. Because it's tucked away in the Rockies, Pearl Pass is often snowed in until late July (or even later some years!). It's typically only open for a few precious weeks in late summer. The south side of the pass is notorious for snowdrifts that can block the trail for the entire year. Snow and ice are real possibilities even in late summer. Give yourself 5-6 hours to soak in the unmatched variety of landscapes. This route crosses the Continental Divide, treating you to views that are simply spectacular. Located in the Gunnison National Forest, between Aspen and Crested Butte, Pearl Pass promises an unforgettable adventure.
hardCasco Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're looking for a wild Colorado adventure, Casco Peak is calling your name! This beast of a mountain road climbs to a whopping 12,877 feet in Lake County, putting it among the highest drives in the state. You'll find it nestled in the Sawatch Range, deep within the San Isabel National Forest. Be warned: this isn't a Sunday drive. Forest Road 110J, also known as Iron Mike Road (or Halfmoon Road), is a rough and tumble old mining route that'll test your skills. Expect a bumpy, tippy ride on a narrow trail with limited passing spots. High clearance and 4x4 are definitely your friends here. Speaking of friends, keep an eye on the sky! Afternoon thunderstorms can roll in fast, and you do not want to be caught above treeline when lightning starts flashing. The views, however, are incredible. Plus, you'll spot the spooky remains of old mining buildings near the top, adding to the off-the-grid vibe. Just remember, this area is snowed in for a good chunk of the year, often not clear until July. So, pack your patience, your off-roading chops, and prepare for some serious altitude!
hardHow to get by car to the summit of Piccolo Summit in BC?
🇨🇦 Canada
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in the heart of British Columbia, about 75 miles north of Vancouver near Whistler, lies Piccolo Summit. At a whopping 6,673 feet, this peak in Garibaldi Provincial Park isn't just any viewpoint; it's one of the highest roads you'll find in Canada! Part of the "Musical Bumps" (Flute and Oboe summits are nearby!), Piccolo got its name for being the highest-pitched instrument in the orchestra. Getting to the top is an adventure in itself! Forget pavement; this is a 4x4-only kinda road, and it's steep! Think narrow shelf roads, heart-stopping drops, and views that'll make it all worth it. Just remember, winter turns this road into an impassable wonderland of snow.