The breathtaking road to Meridian Peak in CO
Usa, north-america
9.87 km
3,789 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, listen up! Meridian Peak in Colorado is calling your name! Perched way up high on the border of Summit and Eagle counties, this spot hits an insane 12,432 feet above sea level.
We're talking about Elliot's Ridge Road, a rugged, unpaved path up the west side of the ridge. Think old-school 4x4 vibes, deep in the heart of the Gore Range and Eagles Nest Wilderness.
The climb kicks off from County Road 1831 and stretches for just over 6 miles. You'll gain around 1,263 feet in elevation. That's an average grade of nearly 4%! Fair warning: this road is usually snowed-in from late October until at least late June. But trust me, the panoramic views from the top of Meridian Peak are worth the wait.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 9.87 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,789 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is the Clay Butte Lookout?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: You're cruising through northwestern Wyoming, in the Shoshone National Forest, and you spot the turnoff for Forest Road 142. This is your ticket to the Clay Butte Lookout, built way back in 1942. Now, fair warning, it's a dirt and gravel road all the way. Think bumpy, a little washboard-y, but honestly, most cars can handle it. Just leave the RV and trailer behind – they won't make it. There is parking for trailers available at the Leek Spring Hill, a few miles beyond the lookout. The road itself is only about 6 miles long, but it's a steady climb. It gains quite a bit of elevation, with an average gradient of . And trust me, that effort is worth it! Keep in mind, because you're up so high in the northern Rockies, this road is really only open in summer, typically from late June. Even then, be prepared for anything – snow, freezing temps, afternoon thunderstorms are all possibilities. Watch out for rockslides! But that view? Unforgettable! You'll get a glimpse of lofty peaks, emerald valleys, and sparkling lakes – scenery you just can't see from the main highway. It's a panoramic masterpiece that will stay with you long after you've bumped your way back down.
moderateAn Unforgettable Drive to Gold Hill Pass in UT
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in Utah's Summit County, hidden within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, you'll find Gold Hill Pass. This bad boy tops out at a whopping 10,039 feet! Forget smooth pavement; we're talking about Gold Hill Road (FR160), a 7.5-mile stretch of pure, unadulterated dirt. Seriously, you'll want a high-clearance vehicle – ideally a low-geared 2WD or, better yet, a 4x4 – to tackle this one. The road winds east to west, connecting Mirror Lake Highway (U-150) with Forest Road 638. Keep in mind, this is a seasonal gem, usually open from mid-May to mid-October. So, if you're looking for a wild ride with killer views in the Uinta Mountains, Gold Hill Pass might just be your next unforgettable adventure!
hardElk Camp Summit
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, thrill-seekers, let’s talk about Elk Camp Summit in Pitkin County, Colorado! We're talking serious altitude here – 11,348 feet! This isn't your average Sunday drive. Elk Camp Road is a rocky, gravel path, and it's actually a service road for a chairlift. Translation: steep! Think loose stones, and as you climb, it gets even steeper and rockier. Timing is everything – you’ve got a tiny window in late summer (think late August) to tackle this beast. Be prepared for wind – it's almost always howling up there. Seriously, even in summer, you could get a surprise snow day. Winter? Forget about it, it’s brutally cold. Oh, and did I mention the 30% inclines on some parts? This ski-station service road is definitely a challenge, but the views at the top? Totally worth it!
hardIs Deer Creek Road Paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: cruising down Deer Creek Road in Malibu, one of the most scenic drives you can find! This 2.6-mile stretch is totally paved, but hold on tight – it’s a wild ride! We’re talking seriously steep inclines, enough to make you feel a little dizzy, especially since you're winding through Deer Creek Canyon Park. The road plunges south from the Pacific Coast Highway, and get ready for some serious twists and turns. There are spots where there are no guardrails, so keep your eyes on the road! If you get carsick easily, this might not be your jam. But if you're up for a bit of a challenge, the views are SO worth it. Speaking of views, Deer Creek Ocean Overlook is a must-stop! This natural viewpoint is like a photographer's dream, giving you killer shots of the Pacific and the Ventura County Coast. Just a heads up, parking's tight and there's a sharp curve nearby, so be careful pulling in and out. Sunset here? Unforgettable.