
What is the new name for Squaw Pass in Colorado?
Usa, north-america
49.56 km
2,984 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trip fans, listen up! If you're cruising around Colorado and looking for a scenic mountain escape, you HAVE to check out Mestaa’Ėhehe Pass (formerly known as Squaw Pass). Nestled in Clear Creek County between Evergreen and Idaho Springs, this beauty climbs to a whopping 9,790 feet!
The road, now known as Mestaa’Ėhehe Road (or Colorado State Highway 103), is a fully paved, 30.8-mile ribbon of asphalt that winds through the Arapaho National Forest. Just be warned, it's a bit of a leg burner for your car – some sections max out at an 8% grade! Built way back in the day (the first version in 1923, and fully paved by '56), it's super accessible from Denver.
Keep in mind that even though it's open year-round, Mother Nature can be a real diva. Snow can definitely shut things down in the winter, so always check conditions before you go. But if you catch it on a good day, you're in for some seriously stunning Front Range views!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 49.56 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,984 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
hardMount Elbert
🇺🇸 Usa
Mount Elbert is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 3.504m (11,496ft) above the sea level, located in Lake County, in the U.S. state of Colorado. The summit is located in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains of North America. The road to the summit is very rough, tippy and bumpy at times. Located on the Elbert Massif in San Isabel National Forest, the road is totally impassable in winters, often until July 4th or later. Great trail for experienced wheelers. The trail is narrow with few places for passing so meeting someone can be a challenge. High altitude sickness may occur at this altitude. The mountain was named in honor of a Colorado statesman, Samuel Hitt Elbert, who was active in the formative period of the state and Governor of the Territory of Colorado from 1873 to 1874. The trail to the summit is called Forest Road 110J (Iron Mike Road or Halfmoon Road). It’s an old mining road. Keep an eye on the weather for thunderstorms and lightning. Near the summit there are remants of several abandoned old mining buildings. The road can be driven in many stock SUVs equipped with 4x4 & higher clearance. However, the road is continuously rocky and does present some degree of clearance challenges for stock SUVs. Avoid dangerous afternoon storms. If you see dark puffy clouds building, turn around and get off the mountain. Maverick Mountain: Driving to the 8,086ft lookout in Fort Apache Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
hardIs the road to Grand Junction FAA Radar Site unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Ever dreamt of reaching a hidden spot high above Colorado? Then get ready to explore the unpaved road leading to the Grand Junction FAA Radar Site! Situated north of Grand Junction, this rugged 5.4-mile (8.69km) journey in Garfield County climbs to a lofty 9,012 feet (2,747m). While most cars can handle it, be prepared for a few thrills with four hairpin turns that'll make you grip the wheel. The road steadily climbs, gaining 1,027 feet (313m) with an average gradient of 3.6%, but brace yourself for an initial steep ramp hitting a maximum of 10%! This spot helps track all sorts of aircraft so it's pretty important. Remember to peek at the weather forecast, though, because things can change quickly up there. Built in November 1962, this road not only offers a unique drive but also a glimpse into the tech that keeps our skies safe!
easyThe Ultimate Guide to Traveling Benton Crossing Road
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip fans, listen up! Benton Crossing Road in Mono County, California is calling your name! This beauty is completely paved and winds for about 30 miles (48.76km) between Whitmore Hot Springs and Benton. It’s pretty quiet, so you can really soak in the views. Speaking of views, get ready for some serious mountain scenery! You'll be cruising through the Inyo National Forest, climbing up to over 7,500 feet above sea level, topping out at Waterson Divide (2,301m) and Wildrose Summit (2,337m). The road can be steep in sections, so be ready for some 9% gradients! Usually, Benton Crossing Road is open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather, especially in winter. Snow can definitely throw a wrench in your plans and even close it down. Allow around 45-60 minutes to drive the whole thing without stopping, but trust me, you WILL want to stop! Picture yourself pulling over to capture those insane Sierra peak views. The White Mountains will have you reaching for your camera. Bonus points: parts of the movie *Shooter* were filmed here! Get ready for a drive you won't forget!
moderateLa Rumorosa is a road for James Bond in Mexico
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, buckle up, road-trippers, because La Rumorosa in Baja California, Mexico, is a wild ride you won't forget! We're talking about a mountain pass soaring to 4,042 feet above sea level in the Sierra de Juárez Mountains. This isn't just any drive – it's a paved, two-lane rollercoaster called Federal Highway 2D, twisting and turning through the landscape. "La Rumorosa" translates to "the noisy one," and you'll understand why as the whispering winds howl through the Sierra. Keep your eyes peeled – this dramatic scenery was even featured in the James Bond film *Licence to Kill*! The road connects Tecate and Mexicali, running alongside Interstate 8 near Mountain Springs, California. Now, a word of caution: La Rumorosa is notorious for its sharp curves, hairpin turns, and steep dips. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, stick to the speed limit, and use engine braking to stay in control. Hot temperatures can cause overheating in the summer, and headlights are recommended when visibility is low. This scenic highway was completed in 1917. Some locals say the road is haunted by the spirits of those who have died on the road.