What are the highest roads in the United States?
Usa, north-america
N/A
N/A
moderate
Year-round
# America's Most Epic High-Altitude Drives
Ready for an adventure that'll take your breath away—literally? The United States is packed with some seriously stunning high-elevation roads that'll have you questioning how engineers even pulled off these routes.
From the dramatic peaks of Colorado's Rockies to California's jaw-dropping Sierra Nevada and even Hawaii's volcanic summits, these drives are the real deal. You'll find yourself climbing to elevations so high you'll practically be kissing the clouds, which honestly makes for some incredible photo ops.
Whether you're into the rugged, unpaved experience of dusty mountain passes or prefer cruising smooth asphalt through alpine terrain, there's something here for every type of adventurer. These roads showcase some seriously impressive engineering while delivering views that'll make your Instagram followers jealous.
Curious about exploring these routes? Check out our interactive map to find the most breathtaking roads across the country—each one a unique challenge that'll push both you and your vehicle to their limits.
**Think you know a hidden gem?** If you've discovered an amazing road that deserves the spotlight, we'd love to hear about it! Share your suggestions with us, and we might just add your discovery to our growing collection of epic American drives.
Where is it?
What are the highest roads in the United States? is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 39.1124, -99.3558
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 39.1124, -99.3558
Related Roads in north-america
hardBull of the Woods Pass
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, gearheads and adventure seekers, let's talk Bull of the Woods Pass in Park County, Montana! This isn't your Sunday drive – we're talking a whopping 9,875 feet above sea level! Seriously, it's up there among Montana's highest roads. The road? Think gravel, rocks, and a whole lotta bumps. It's a proper 4x4 trail, and you'll definitely want some experience under your belt. If mountain roads make you nervous, maybe skip this one. Expect some seriously steep sections too. Oh, and winter? Forget about it, this route is usually snowed in. But if you're up for it, the views are absolutely killer! Just be prepared for a wild, possibly muddy ride, especially if it's been raining. And maybe don't look down if you're not a fan of heights!
extremeThe Road to Dante's View Offers Death Valley's Best Views
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! You absolutely HAVE to experience Dante's View in California's Death Valley. Seriously, this place is unreal. Imagine this: you're cruising along, starting near the Badwater Basin, which is actually *below* sea level. For miles, the road is pretty chill, but don't get too comfy. This "Dantes View Road" is a beast disguised as asphalt! Clocking in at just over 23 miles, the final 5 miles are where things get wild. The road gets super steep with hairpin turns that'll make your palms sweat. Word to the wise: if you're hauling a trailer, there's a designated "escape route" – trust me, you'll thank me later. Vehicles over 25 feet long are restricted from this section. Once you conquer that final stretch, BAM! You're at 5,485 feet above sea level, staring at a view that's straight out of a movie (literally, it was a Star Wars filming location!). The 360-degree panorama is mind-blowing. You've got Badwater way down below, and if you squint, you can spot Mt. Whitney in the distance. Just remember that the summit is colder and windier than the valley floor so bring a jacket! Heads up, though: this isn't your average Sunday drive. The mines may be unstable, have hidden shafts, pockets of bad air and poisonous gas. It's scenic, epic, and a total must-do if you're anywhere near Death Valley. Just go in the morning when it's cooler, and get ready to be amazed!
moderateWhere is Gold Camp Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because Gold Camp Road is a wild ride! This 32-mile stretch connects Colorado Springs and Victor, Colorado, and it's got a serious past life. Originally, it was a railroad carved into the hills back in the 1880s during the gold rush days. They turned it into a road in 1924, and for a while, it was a free-for-all until part of a tunnel caved in back in '88. You'll find it snaking through North Cheyenne Canyon, just southwest of Colorado Springs. Think gorgeous scenery during the day, but hold onto your hats because this road is also known for its spooky nighttime vibes. Parts of it are paved, parts are gravel, and some sections are closed entirely. You can still cruise through a couple of the tunnels, though. The road can get pretty narrow and rocky in spots, but you don't need a 4x4 to tackle it. Just keep an eye out for bikers and hikers sharing the road! Speaking of tunnels, there used to be nine, but time and vandals have taken their toll. One, tunnel number 3, is completely sealed off, and that's where the ghost stories really kick in. Legend says it collapsed in '88 with a school bus full of orphans inside, but nobody has ever found any official records of that happening. People have reported hearing creepy laughter and seeing tiny handprints on car windows. Some even claim to spot ghostly figures in cloaks. Whether you're a believer or not, this place is definitely atmospheric! Just be careful – some folks like to turn off their lights in the tunnels to try and get a paranormal experience.
hardIs a 4x4 Essential for Rat Trap Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Wanna tackle a real beast of a pass? Head to Snohomish County, Washington, and find Rat Trap Pass. We're talking a whopping 3,182 feet above sea level, people! Now, this isn't your Sunday cruise. Located inside Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, this is National Forest Road #27. It's a gnarly, unpaved track where a 4x4 isn't just recommended, it's essential! Seriously, leave the sedan at home. Washouts are common, and "impassable" is a regular state of affairs. The road stretches for a solid 13.7 miles from the Mountain Loop Highway to National Forest Road #2703. But trust me, the views are worth it! Prepare to be blown away by the incredible scenery, especially the majestic White Chuck Mountain. Just remember to pack your nerves of steel!