
The spectacular Captain William Moore Bridge in Alaska
Usa, north-america
N/A
34 m
moderate
Year-round
Hey adventurers! Let's talk about the Captain William Moore Bridge, a true Alaskan icon just outside Skagway in Southeast Alaska. This isn't just any bridge; it's a gateway to the Yukon and the Klondike, steeped in Gold Rush history!
The original bridge, built in '76, spanned a 110-foot drop over Moore Creek Gorge. But here's the kicker: it crosses an active earthquake fault. So, engineers got super clever. They anchored it on one side only, letting the other end wiggle freely during seismic activity. Pretty cool, right? The updated version from 2017 stretches 300 feet, with a wild, asymmetrical cable design. It's built tough to handle heavy traffic, but it keeps that smart, flexible design.
Now, the old bridge? It's been retired, but it's not gone! You can stroll across it and soak in the engineering marvel. And since 2019, the Klondike Highway has a new approach, including a buried bridge. You've GOT to see this place to appreciate the sheer ingenuity and stunning scenery.
Where is it?
The spectacular Captain William Moore Bridge in Alaska is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.5298, -102.6739
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 34 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 40.5298, -102.6739
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhy Is It Called Calispell Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, let's talk Calispell Peak in Washington state! This bad boy tops out at 6,856 feet, making it one of the highest points you can drive to in the state. The peak gets its name from the Kalispel Indians who used to call this region home. So, what's up there? Besides bragging rights, the summit is home to a bunch of communication towers. Back in the day, it was a fire lookout spot, and now it’s prime real estate for catching all the signals. You'll be rewarded with insane 360-degree views above the treeline in an alpine meadow. Word has it there's even an old beryllium mine up there! Now, for the nitty-gritty: the road, officially NF-629 (aka Calispell Peak Road), is unpaved and seriously rugged. We're talking rocks, ruts, the whole shebang. It’s about 8.8 miles from Tacoma Creek Road (Highway 2389) to the top, with a hefty 4,200 feet of climbing. Expect some steep sections, with gradients hitting up to 12.5%! Definitely bring your A-game (and a high-clearance 4x4) for this one. This is NOT a drive for your grandma’s sedan. And be warned: this road is usually snowed in from October to June, so plan your trip accordingly. If you're hitting it during the snowy months, strap on your snowshoes or skis. Oh, and did I mention it can get pretty windy up there? Be prepared for anything! If it is wet and muddy, the road might also be impassable.
hardMingus Summit in AZ: a road with several dizzying hairpin bends
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip enthusiasts, let's talk Mingus Summit in Arizona! This stunner of a pass sits high in the Black Hills, clocking in at 7,040 feet above sea level. You'll find it nestled in Yavapai County, and the whole thing is paved, making it accessible for most vehicles. We're talking about a 19.7-mile (31.70km) stretch of pure driving joy (or terror, depending on your perspective!), winding its way from Prescott Valley up to Jerome via Highway 89A. Be prepared for some serious curves, hairpin turns, and a lung-busting 11% maximum grade in some sections. The good news? This beauty is usually open year-round, although heavy winter snow might cause temporary closures. Even better, the higher elevation keeps things relatively cool during the summer months. At the summit, you'll find a rest area and picnic spot—perfect for soaking it all in, though parking is limited. And, if you're feeling adventurous, a gravel road (Forest Road 104) just east of the pass leads to Mingus Mountain, a popular spot for hang-gliding. The views are insane! Get ready for panoramic vistas of the Verde Valley, the iconic red rocks of Sedona, the City of Cottonwood, and even Humphrey's Peak way up near Flagstaff. Trust me; your camera roll will thank you for this one.
moderateWhere is Browns Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, buckle up for Browns Pass, a wild ride topping out at a cool 11,400 feet! You'll find this beauty nestled in Colorado, smack-dab in the heart of the Sawatch Range. Heads up: this isn't your typical Sunday cruise. The 5.5-mile road to the summit is unpaved and starts from the paved County Road 29. It’s a bit rough and rugged, so be prepared for a bumpy adventure! Word to the wise: winter is a no-go. This road isn't plowed, so plan your trip for the warmer months for the best experience. Also, keep an eye on the weather – the trail is totally exposed, so you don't want to get caught in a storm. But oh, the views! You'll be treated to incredible scenery as you climb. Browns Pass is a true escape into the Colorado wilderness.
hardWhere are Smith Creek Lakes?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! I've got a killer spot for you: Smith Creek Lakes in northern Utah, practically in Salt Lake City's backyard. We're talking three shimmering glacial lakes tucked way up high at 8,930 feet, chilling below Francis and Thurston peaks. Now, getting there? That's part of the fun. Forest Road 259, aka Smith Lakes Road, is your path. Forget pavement—this is pure, unadulterated dirt road bliss (with a healthy dose of bumps and rocks, mind you). Think gnarly terrain and nine seriously tight hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills. Seriously, you NEED a high-clearance 4x4 for this one. The road itself is only 2.2 miles long in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest, but don't let that fool you. You'll climb about 700 vertical feet, so buckle up for a steady incline. Oh, and a heads up: winter is a no-go. This road is NOT plowed. Being north-facing, that last stretch holds onto snow like crazy, sometimes even into July! Wait for the thaw before attempting this trek. But trust me, the views are SO worth the wait.