Top of the World is one of the gnarliest roads of Moab
Usa, north-america
15.28 km
2,149 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're heading to Moab, Utah, and you're craving a view that'll knock your socks off, you HAVE to check out Top of the World. Perched at 7,050 feet, this natural viewpoint gives you a killer panorama from a 3,000-foot cliff overlook. Seriously, it might just be the best view in the whole state.
Getting there is half the adventure! The Top of the World trail, about 9.5 miles long, is a totally unpaved 4x4 route that kicks off from UT-128.
Now, let's be real: this drive is no Sunday cruise. We're talking broken, layered rock, shelves of all sizes, loose rock, ledges, bedrock, sand, and even a little slickrock. The last few miles are seriously intense, so you'll want a rig that can handle it. Think 35" tires, a 3" lift, and lockers. This trail is bumpy with obstacles, so drivers can break an axle if not careful. Stock SUVs should probably sit this one out. Pack your tools and gear because help is a long way away if you get into trouble.
Oh, and hold on to your hat! The wind up here can be wild, rushing up from the valley below. The climb involves slickrock, rock shelves, and steps. Oversized tires, high clearance, and a rear locker are highly recommended. Surprisingly, cell service is pretty good, even in this remote spot. The road gets steep, with gradients hitting 15% in places. And if it's raining or snowy, unless you're a pro with a winch, save this adventure for another day.
Give yourself 2.5 to 3.5 hours to drive the trail without stopping. Trust me, you'll want to stop for photos! The trail ends at the lookout point, overlooking one of the most picturesque views of the Utah landscape. Just be super careful near the cliff edge – there are no handrails, and it's not suitable for kids.
But the 360° views from Waring Mesa are worth it! You'll be treated to epic views of Fisher Valley, Onion Creek, and the La Sal Mountains. It’s an amazing canyon view and it’s not to be missed! This drive is challenging, but the reward is a panorama you won't soon forget. Get ready to say "WOW!"
Where is it?
Top of the World is one of the gnarliest roads of Moab is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.4868, -95.6839
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 15.28 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,149 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 40.4868, -95.6839
Related Roads in north-america
moderateHow long is Phillips Mine Road in Arizona?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: a short but sweet escape into Arizona's forgotten mining past. We're talking about Phillips Mine Road, kicking off near an old campground in the Seneca Lake Recreation Area. This isn't a super long haul, clocking in at just under 9 miles. You'll wind your way to a historic homestead near what used to be an asbestos mine. Now, for the road itself. Most of it's unpaved, so it's a bit bumpy, but nothing too crazy. Most SUVs should be able to handle it. If you want to get all the way to the abandoned buildings, you might want something a little more rugged. Keep in mind, this road climbs! You'll be cruising above 5,000 feet. One thing to watch out for: if it's been raining hard, the creeks you cross might be flooded and impassable. Is it worth it? Totally. This drive is tucked away in central Arizona, and the scenery is unreal. Think incredible views, deep canyons, and those iconic Arizona colors. And when you finally roll up to the old mining area? Get ready for some seriously spooky abandoned buildings. It's like stepping onto the set of a horror movie. Definitely a trip for the adventurous soul!
moderateWhere is Pine Canyon Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! I just discovered the coolest little detour in Big Bend National Park, Texas: Pine Canyon Road! Seriously, if you're craving breathtaking views of the Chisos Mountains, this is your jam. This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. We're talking a wild, unpaved route carving its way through the desert. Think loose rocks, dips, climbs, blind corners, and maybe even a dry creek crossing or two! Rain can change everything out here, so be prepared for anything. Oh, and keep an eye out for bears! You'll definitely want a high-clearance vehicle for this one – leave the low riders at home! And trailers? Nope, not a good idea. You might actually encounter other travelers, but that's part of the fun. Clocking in at just over 4 miles, this baby packs a punch! It ends at a parking lot that’s your gateway to the Pine Canyon Trailhead, way up at 4,816 feet. Don't let the short distance fool you—you'll climb almost 1,350 feet, with some seriously steep stretches to get your adrenaline pumping. Trust me, the views from the top are worth every bump and jolt!
easyTop of the World Highway is one of the world's top drives
🇨🇦 Canada
Get ready for an epic adventure on the Top of the World Highway, a seriously scenic route linking Canada and Alaska! This gem, carved out in 1955, is only open during the summer, so plan accordingly. Clocking in at 131km (81 miles), this east-west route runs from the Taylor Highway (near Jack Wade, Alaska) all the way to Dawson City, Yukon, Canada, nestled on the Yukon River's west bank. Dawson City? Think Klondike Gold Rush central! Also known as Yukon Highway 9 or the 60 Mile, this road is mostly gravel. It was paved back in the late 90s, but maintenance has been a bit lax, so expect about half of it to be unpaved these days. It can be narrow, and you'll likely encounter potholes, washboard surfaces, and not much of a shoulder. They only maintain it from late spring to early fall, which coincides with the ferry service in Dawson City. In the U.S., you'll hit the highest point at 1,274m (4,179ft) right on the border at Little Gold Creek Border Crossing. Over in Canada, you'll peak at 1,314m (4,311ft). The border is open seasonally from May to September, 9 am-9 pm Yukon time (8 am-8 pm Alaska time). When it's closed, you're not crossing! This road can be a bit demanding, so some mountain driving experience is definitely recommended. If you’re comfortable with narrow, winding mountain roads, you're going to love it. If not, take it slow and savor the views. Expect tight turns and washboard when it rains. Wet weather can make it slippery, and watch out for soft shoulders and no guardrails. Double-check with your rental company, as some vehicles aren't allowed on this road. Traffic is usually light, but if someone's behind you, be courteous and let them pass. It's called the Top of the World Highway for a reason – it hugs the crests of hills, giving you amazing views down into the valleys. Allow at least 2.5 hours without stops, but really, give yourself more time because the road is winding and narrow in places. It's especially stunning in the fall. You'll wind along the mountain tops for a truly breathtaking experience, wandering around the high points of a series of ridges far above treeline. The views seem to go on forever. Since most of this road is unpaved, your travel time will depend on your vehicle and the weather. Unlike most highways that follow valleys, this one winds along the top of the range, providing exhilarating views and a unique scenic drive. Take your time and soak it all in. For most of the journey, you'll be driving along the peaks and crests of mountains and hills, with valleys stretching out below you.
hardWhere is Colorado Mines Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're in central Colorado, smack-dab in the Arapaho National Forest, and you're itching for a serious dose of altitude. Colorado Mines Peak is calling your name! This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. We're talking about one of the highest roads in Colorado, topping out at a cool 12,506 feet. The whole reason it's called Colorado Mines Peak is because the Colorado School of Mines has a weather station chilling at the summit. Now, the road itself? It's a 2-mile (3.21 km) unpaved service road—Colorado Mines Peak Road—with some super-long switchbacks and a steep grade averaging 11.7%. Expect an elevation gain of 1,250ft (381m). Heads up, though: private vehicles aren't allowed! Plus, being in the heart of Colorado, this road is usually buried under snow during the winter, so plan your trip for later in the season when things have thawed out. Once you reach the top, yeah, there are a bunch of communication towers and equipment (think 1950s vibes). But honestly, who cares when you're surrounded by unbelievable views in every single direction?