Ultimate 4wd destination: Thunder Mountain in San Bernardino County
Usa, north-america
2.09 km
2,613 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! We're heading to Thunder Mountain, a sweet peak sitting at 8,572 feet in Southern California's San Bernardino County.
This isn't your Sunday drive; we're talking about a 1.3-mile, completely unpaved dirt track called Thunder Mountain Road that climbs to the top of some chairlifts. Think wide road... with a generous helping of rocks. Basically, it doubles as a ski run when the snow flies! You'll need a 4x4 for this one, no question.
Hidden away in the Angeles National Forest, near the edge of Los Angeles County, be warned: this road is typically snowed in from late October until nearly July – Mother Nature decides when it's passable. But oh, the views! You'll be treated to stunning vistas of Mt. Baldy to the north and the Lytle Creek area to the east. Just remember, this climb is STEEP, with gradients hitting a whopping 22% in places! Starting from Mount Baldy Road, you'll gain 750 feet in just over a mile, averaging an 11% grade. Get ready for a workout – for both you and your rig!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 2.09 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,613 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
extremeLion's Back in Utah: the consequences for mistakes here are severe
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: Moab, Utah. Red rocks as far as the eye can see. And smack dab in the middle of it all, there *used* to be Lion's Back. This sandstone ridge was legendary. I'm talking heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping, make-you-question-your-sanity legendary. We're talking a climb of several hundred feet (around 350!), with slopes that ramped up to a crazy 65-degree gradient. Imagine inching your way up that, then having to pull off the world's most precarious multi-point turn at the summit before gingerly descending! It was an iconic off-road challenge. Of course, this kind of terrain wasn't without its dangers. There were those precipitous drop-offs on either side, and the occasional "uh oh" moment, like that infamous video of a Blazer losing its brakes and tumbling down. Yikes! But let's be real, it was the *views* that made it special. Just incredible. Sadly, the fun came to an end. Lion's Back is now private property and closed to off-roaders. Environmental concerns and safety issues led to its closure, and now it’s just a memory. It still stands as a testament to Moab's wild spirit, though!
easyA high mountain road from Xalatlaco to El Ajusco
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, picture this: you're cruising between Xalatlaco (in Mexico State) and El Ajusco (Mexico City) on what might just be one of Mexico's most gorgeous drives. Seriously, the views are insane! This beauty of a road clocks in at about 35 kilometers (21-ish miles) and it's all smooth pavement as it winds through Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco. Just be warned: you'll be climbing – and I mean *climbing*. We're talking a peak elevation of 3,622 meters (almost 12,000 feet!), making it one of the highest roads around. Heads up, though, this road is a major draw, especially in winter when snow dusts the landscape. Weekends and holidays? Forget about it – packed! And speaking of snow, things can get a little dicey with icy conditions and drivers not quite ready for winter weather. So, drive carefully and keep your eyes peeled for potential slowdowns. Despite the potential hazards, the scenery is absolutely worth it!
moderateWhat is at the summit of Chisos Mountains?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through Big Bend National Park in Texas? You've GOT to check out Chisos Basin Road! This isn't just a drive; it's an experience through one of America's best-kept secrets. Picture this: you're winding your way up, up, up on a totally paved road, with killer views unfolding around every bend. Think sharp curves, switchbacks, and vistas for days! As you climb, you're talking about over 2,000 feet above the desert floor – get ready for incredible views of the mountain peaks and the unique basin area carved out by erosion. This road is like a backstage pass to see the cool transition from desert to those refreshing mountain habitats. At the summit of Chisos Mountains, you'll find a restaurant, campground, lodging, and plenty of parking. The road itself stretches about 6 miles, taking you north-south from somewhere along the main park road straight to the Chisos Mountains parking area, reaching a whopping elevation. Word to the wise: if you're hauling a trailer, keep it under 24 feet! Those curves are no joke, and the grades can get pretty steep (up to 8%). But trust me, it's worth it. As you gain elevation, keep an eye out for wildlife – you might spot a black bear, and the birdwatching is unreal! Don't forget to admire the cool red-barked Texas madrone trees along the way. Seriously, this road is a feast for the senses – get ready to make some memories!
hardUltimate 4wd destination: Rowher Flat Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation in California
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so picture this: Rowher Flat OHV Area, just outside Santa Clarita, California. It's basically an off-roader's paradise near LA, packed with trails for motorcycles, ATVs, and 4x4s. Think challenging terrain—we're talking arid, rocky landscapes that will test your skills. The trails are all marked and rated, so you know what you're getting into. But heads up, with all the twists and turns, it's easy to get turned around out there, so you'll need your wits about you. You're smack-dab in the Angeles National Forest, so expect it rough! Rocks, dirt, ruts, you name it. This place has been popular since the '60s and for good reason. And get this: this area has tons of history! There were even indigenous villages here thousands of years ago. Some areas are blocked off to protect that heritage, so be respectful. Now, let's talk about the actual ride. It's dry, it's dusty, especially in the summer. The trails can get pretty loose. If you can, try to come after the spring rains to cut down on the dust. And seriously, bring a buddy! These trails are no joke. You'll need a vehicle with low-range gears and some serious power. Locking diffs or awesome suspension are a must. Watch out on those steep hills; sideways movement could mean a rollover. ATV and dirt bike riders, prepare for a workout! It's going to take some real skill to conquer these trails.