The road to Workman Creek Falls in Arizona is pure adventure
Usa, north-america
5.14 km
61 m
hard
Year-round
Just a short hop from the 288-Globe Young Highway in Arizona's Gila County, awaits the amazing 200 ft Workman Creek Falls! But heads-up, this ain't your average Sunday drive.
Forest Service Road 487 (AKA Workman Creek Road) stretches just over 3 miles, and it's unpaved the whole way. You'll need a high-clearance vehicle, and forget about it if it's wet. You can usually make it to the Falls in 2WD (weather permitting), but beyond that, things get real. We're talking steep, narrow paths clinging to the side of cliffs – not for the faint of heart! It winds up to Aztec Peak lookout, a whopping 7,746 feet above sea level. The final stretch is a single-track forest road that can be a bit rocky. If the gate's open, you can drive all the way to the top.
Keep in mind, this road above the Falls Recreation Site is usually closed during the winter months (mid-December to end of March) due to snow.
The views, though? Absolutely stunning! You're in the Tonto National Forest, smack-dab in the Sierra Ancha Wilderness, home to diverse wildlife and plants.
Oh, and one more thing: this area has naturally occurring uranium and radium-266, and was mined in the 50's! There are signs posted, but be aware of the potential for low-level radiation. And seriously, DO NOT enter any of the old mines – some have dangerously high radiation levels.
Where is it?
The road to Workman Creek Falls in Arizona is pure adventure is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.4093, -97.6251
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 5.14 km
- Max Elevation
- 61 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 40.4093, -97.6251
Related Roads in north-america
hardIs the Road to Inspiration Point in Utah Unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're in Box Elder County, Utah and itching for an adventure? Let me tell you about Inspiration Point! This peak sits way up high at 9,412 feet, and getting there is half the fun (and a little bit of a challenge). The road, Willard Peak Road, is a 14-mile dirt track starting from Mantua, and honestly? It's rough. Think bumpy, rocky, and dusty – seriously, leave your sports car at home. You absolutely need a 4x4 – a truck or Jeep is your best bet. You'll be crawling along at 5-15 mph, carefully picking your way around rocks. Oh, and keep an eye out for rattlesnakes! The road climbs 4,200 feet, so it’s about a 5.5% grade. The road's usually open from July to the end of October, thanks to the snow. And heads up – this spot's popular! Expect crowds, especially during the summer and in October. But trust me, it's all worth it. The views from the top are unreal. You can see everything from Salt Lake City to the Wasatch Front, Huntsville, and into Cache Valley. On a clear day, they say you can even spot Utah, Idaho, Nevada, and Wyoming! Plus, you can explore some cool old mines nearby, like the Eldorado Mine below Willard Peak.
hardA great trip to the top of Ophir Pass in Colorado
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so picture this: you're cruising through the San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado, tackling Ophir Pass. This baby tops out at almost 11,800 feet! You'll find it in San Miguel County. It's basically Forest Road #630, also known as Ophir Pass Road. This 10-mile stretch connects CO-145 with the legendary US-550 (Million Dollar Highway) north of Silverton, winding its way through the old mining town of Ophir. You can usually hit it up between June and November, but Mother Nature calls the shots here. Snow can shut things down anytime. Even in June, expect some serious snowdrifts at the top. Afternoon storms are the norm, so be prepared! Most of the road is pretty chill, but there are a few tight spots and some bumpy sections. There's this half-mile stretch on the Ophir side that can get tricky when passing other cars. Just a heads up: uphill traffic should let downhill traffic have the right of way. Oh, and if you're not a fan of heights, the drop-offs might make you sweat a little. While you *could* technically do it without 4WD, I'd HIGHLY recommend a 4x4 with good clearance. Trust me, you'll be happier. Note that unlicensed OHVs are restricted within the Town of Ophir and on Forest Road #630 heading west towards State Highway 145. Give yourself about an hour to soak it all in. You'll be rewarded with insane views of Ophir Valley and the surrounding peaks. This pass is often combined with Black Bear Pass or Imogene Pass for an epic loop adventure!
moderateWhere is Lily Lake?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading to central Colorado, north of Leadville, right? Wanna find a hidden gem? Check out Lily Lake! This alpine beauty sits way up high at 10,606 feet in the San Isabel National Forest. Now, getting there is part of the adventure. Forest Road 131 is the name, and unpaved is the game! Seriously, you'll need a high-clearance 4x4 for this one. From U.S. Route 24, it's only about 2.8 miles to the lake, but you'll climb almost 500 feet. The road is steep in sections, gaining some 149 meters in altitude at an average 3.31% gradient! Think rocky, bumpy, and totally worth it. FYI, this road is usually only open from July to October, depending on the snow. But picture this: crystal-clear water, towering peaks, and the kind of solitude you can only find off the beaten path. Trust me, the views are insane!
moderateHow long is Glacier Point Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along Glacier Point Road in California's Yosemite National Park, and honestly, it might just be the most scenic drive. Ever. This 16-mile ribbon of perfectly paved road winds its way east from... well, you'll figure it out when you get there! Just remember to fuel up because there are no gas stations along this stretch. Keep an eye out for the opening and closing dates. Being up in the mountains in Mariposa County, it typically closes up after the first big snow in November, not opening again until late May. Trust me, you do not want to be up there with snow and ice. The road climaxes at Glacier Point, a staggering 7,214 feet above sea level. Up here, you'll feel like you can touch the sky. The views? Unbelievable. You're gazing down on Yosemite Valley, with iconic sights all around. Word to the wise, though: it gets pretty crowded in the summer months, so pack your patience. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Just be prepared for the crowds.