Ultimate 4wd destination: Dickson Pass
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,190 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! I've got a killer off-road experience for you in southeastern Utah's San Juan County. We're talking about Dickson Pass, a wild ride that tops out at a breathtaking 10,465 feet!
You'll find it nestled in the Abajo Mountains, and to conquer it, you'll need a trusty 4x4 because this baby is unpaved – Forest Road 0087, aka Abajo Peak Road. Most of it's pretty decent, but the final stretch? Get ready to rumble!
The road, snaking through the Manti-La Sal National Forest, is usually good to go from late June until sometime in October, weather permitting. Seriously, don't even think about it if the forecast looks dicey. But if the sun's shining, prepare for some mind-blowing scenery you won't soon forget.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,190 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
easyHow to drive the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, one of the most scenic roads in Utah?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! You HAVE to experience the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway in Utah. Seriously, this 25-mile stretch of State Route 9, winding through Zion National Park, is a total feast for the eyes. Picture this: You're cruising from Springdale to Mount Carmel Junction, surrounded by insane scenery – think switchbacks, those famous slickrock formations, and if you time it right, maybe even some seasonal waterfalls. The whole trip takes about 22 minutes if you don't stop (but trust me, you'll want to!). Pro tip: hit the road early to beat the crowds and soak in the peaceful vibes. The highlight? The Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. This 1.1-mile tunnel, built back in the day, has these awesome windows carved into the rock, giving you seriously epic views. Just a heads up – it’s a bit of a squeeze, so larger RVs and trailers need to get a special escort to navigate it. If you're rocking anything over 13 feet 1 inch tall, a semi-truck, a vehicle carrying hazardous materials, weighing more than 50,000 pounds, a single vehicle over 40 feet long, or combined vehicles over 50 feet long, you're out of luck; as are bicycles and pedestrians. This is a drive you won't forget!
hardMills Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're anywhere near Sierra County, California, and you're itching for a killer view, you HAVE to check out Mills Peak. We're talking summit views at a whopping 7,322 feet! The road, aptly named Mills Peak Road, is... well, let's just say it's an experience. Think gravel, rocks, and plenty of bumps to keep you on your toes. You'll definitely want a high-clearance vehicle for this one. Heads up, it's usually snowed in from October to June, so plan your trip accordingly. The climb can be pretty steep in sections, but trust me, the payoff is worth it. At the top, you'll find an awesome lookout tower built way back in 1933. Get ready for some seriously epic scenery!
moderateWhere is Hans Flat Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading to Utah, right? And you're looking for something a little off the beaten path? Check out Hans Flat Road! It's this awesome dirt road smack-dab in Wayne County, right in the heart of Canyonlands National Park. Think of it as your gateway to the Maze District – seriously remote and rugged. You’ll need to be totally self-sufficient. This is the real deal. The road itself stretches for about 46 miles from UT-24 to the Hans Flat Ranger Station. The first part cruises across the San Rafael Desert, super flat. Then, it starts to climb gradually. Nothing too crazy, though! The road's usually in pretty good shape when it's dry, but keep an eye out for washouts and blowing sand. You might even need a high-clearance vehicle or 4x4 just in case. Be warned: after the ranger station, anything to the Flint Trail will require a 4x4. If it rains or snows a lot, it could get temporarily impassable, so always check conditions before you go. This track is accessible year-round.
moderateTake the Scenic Route and Discover Morgan Summit in CA
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for Morgan Summit! This gem sits high in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains of Northern California, clocking in at a cool 5,764 feet. You'll find it smack-dab in Tehama County, and it's entirely paved – smooth sailing! Now, here's the thing: this road, shared by Highway 89 and another road you might want to research, is a twisty-turny paradise. Think 140 miles of pure driving bliss, demanding your complete and undivided attention. Keep an eye out for trucks hauling trailers. The 29.1-mile stretch runs from Mineral to Chester (right on Lake Almanor!) and marks the highest point on California Route 36. Expect stunning scenery, but also be aware: some spots have serious drop-offs without guardrails, plus blind curves that will test your skills. Cell service is spotty (if existent at all), so download those maps ahead of time! While the pass is usually open year-round, winter can bring closures due to the weather. So, maybe skip it right after a downpour or at night. When the sun's shining and the roads are clear, though, Morgan Summit is a drive you won't soon forget. Get ready for an adventure!