
The narrow shelf road to Radical Hill in Colorado is a nerve-wracking challenge
Usa, north-america
11.42 km
3,846 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Radical Hill in Colorado's Summit County is calling your name... if you're brave enough! This beast of a mountain pass sits at a whopping 12,618 feet above sea level and is NOT for the faint of heart. We're talking serious pucker-factor.
Located near Montezuma, west of Webster Pass, this 7.1-mile unpaved trail throws everything it has at you: massive rocks, a super narrow shelf road that will have you clinging to the edge, and switchbacks that are steep, tight, and will test your driving skills to the max. Seriously, one wrong move and you're likely rolling.
This isn't your Sunday drive. You'll need an aggressive stock SUV, low range, and skid plates are a must. Only experienced drivers should even think about attempting this.
The best time to tackle Radical Hill? Late August or early September for the best chance of clear conditions. Otherwise, expect snow.
Be warned: this road is rocky with loose climbs, off-camber sections, and a final ascent that's eroded and unforgiving. If you're afraid of heights or rough roads with major drop-offs, this might be a little intense.
But hey, if you can handle it, the reward is HUGE. The summit is surprisingly flat with plenty of parking, so you can soak in the incredible panoramic views. You'll spot Webster Pass, Handcart Peak, Teller Mountain, and loads of relics from Colorado's mining past. It's a tough climb, but the scenery is totally worth it!
Where is it?
The narrow shelf road to Radical Hill in Colorado is a nerve-wracking challenge is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.7500, -96.9911
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 11.42 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,846 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 38.7500, -96.9911
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