Upper Bridge Canyon Road
Usa, north-america
7.4 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're craving an off-road adventure in Nevada, Upper Bridge Canyon Road in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area is calling your name. This isn't your Sunday drive kind of road trip; it's a proper 4x4 track that clocks in at just under 5 miles.
Starting off the NV-163, you'll dive headfirst into the rugged beauty of the Bridge Canyon Wilderness Area. But a word to the wise: know your vehicle's measurements – ground clearance is key here. You don't want to become a permanent fixture of the landscape. It's definitely wise to travel with a buddy in another car.
Get ready for some serious boulder action! This route offers plenty of rocky challenges that might require a spotter to guide you through. But trust me, the views and the bragging rights are totally worth it. Get ready for a wild ride!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 7.4 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
moderateThe road to the summit of Mount Locke in Texas
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! If you're cruising through western Texas, you NEED to check out the drive up Mount Locke. Seriously, it’s one of the highest paved roads in the entire state! You'll find it smack-dab in Jeff Davis County, a breezy 17 miles from Fort Davis. Just hop on Texas State Highway Spur 78 (or just Spur 78 to the locals) and get ready for a climb. The road's paved, but it's STEEP in sections. Think 6-11% grades – not for the faint of heart! The whole thing is a quick 1.7 mile shot from TX-118, gaining 577 feet in elevation. Not bad, right? Just be warned, your cell service might bail on you along the way. Snow's not super common up there, but the summit can get kinda chilly in the winter. And the payoff? Unreal views from the top, plus the McDonald Observatory! This place is a seriously cool astronomical research center run by the University of Texas. Think massive telescopes, a killer visitor's center with a gift shop, and even a cafe where you can grab a bite. Oh, and the peak itself? It's named after a local rancher, G.S. Locke. Pretty cool, huh? Trust me, this drive is worth it for the scenery alone!
moderateA two mile road to the top of Capulin Volcano in New Mexico
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip time! Let's head to northeastern New Mexico and check out Capulin Volcano, chilling in the High Plains. This isn't just any volcano – it's an extinct cinder cone and super accessible. Plus, it's part of the massive Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field, which last blew its top over 60,000 years ago! The road to the top, Capulin Volcano Road, is a smooth 2.6-mile paved ribbon that winds its way up. It was built way back in 1925 and it's a pretty wild ride! Be warned: this climb is STEEP. We're talking a maximum gradient of 9% in spots! You start at around 7,188 feet above sea level and end up at 7,890 feet, gaining about 700 feet in just over two and a half miles. That's an average gradient of 5.11%, so hold on tight. Before you go, double-check for any vehicle restrictions or closures – thunderstorms can shut things down. Also, keep in mind that long RVs, buses, and trailers (over 26 feet) aren't allowed. And the hours change depending on the season, usually 8:00/8:30 am to 4:00/5:00 pm. Once you're in the Capulin Volcano National Monument, get ready for a scenic drive with tight turns and, yep, sheer drop-offs. But it’s worth it! You'll spiral around the volcano to a parking lot right at the rim. Biking and walking are allowed, but only when the road's closed to cars after hours. Get ready for some killer views!
extremeDriving the Hazardous California State Route 17
🇺🇸 Usa
Highway 17 in California: buckle up, because this ain't your average Sunday drive! This stretch of road connects the bustling city of San Jose to the laid-back beach town of Santa Cruz, snaking its way for about 26 miles through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Let’s be real, though. This road has earned itself a reputation. Think hairpin turns, blind corners that'll make your palms sweat, and shoulders so narrow you'll be holding your breath. Speed limits can change on a dime, and after it rains (or snows!), the road gets slicker than an eel. Built back in the day, Highway 17 isn't exactly known for its wide, forgiving lanes. Names like "Killer 17" and "Blood Alley" give you an idea of what you're in for. Locals will tell you the sharp turns and blind spots are notorious for causing trouble, and wildlife can make surprise appearances. Seriously, wrecks have gone through the roof in recent years. Speaking of weather, this mountain pass can get dicey. Rain, fog, and even snow can roll in, especially up near Patchen Pass, which sits at a lofty 1,843 feet. If you're driving in winter, be extra careful. But hey, it's not all white-knuckle driving! This road IS gorgeous. The views of the mountains are incredible, and you might even catch a glimpse of the Monterey Bay. Just keep your eyes on the road and maybe leave the sightseeing to your passenger. And if you're into spooky stuff, Highway 17 has a reputation for being haunted! Keep an eye out for apparitions. Some drivers have claimed to see ghosts walking along the side of the road, or even sitting in their backseats! Others have reported seeing weird, vaporous clouds floating around. Creepy, right?
hardWhere is Big Indian Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in western Nevada, near [ ], lies Big Indian Mountain, and getting to its peak is a serious off-road experience! Forget pavement, this is a 12.5-mile dirt track that climbs like crazy. We're talking a staggering 4,927 feet of elevation gain, with some sections hitting a wild 16.5% grade! That's an average gradient of 7.46%, so prepare for a workout! The road is narrow, and passing other vehicles can be tricky, so keep your eyes peeled. You'll definitely need a high-clearance 4x4 to conquer this beast. Heads up: this road is typically snowed in from late October until sometime between late June and early July, so plan your trip accordingly. But if you're after rugged beauty and a true off-road challenge, Big Indian Mountain is calling your name!